This is an excellent addition to the many books about the Christmas Nativity.
A story well known and much loved by children from their earliest participation in plays at nursery and school. Parents well accustomed to making costumes for their kids as shepherds and magi. Of course pressure is placed on the accepted tale and the need to include all the class; not everyone can be Mary or Joseph. We had Carol singers one year and a full menagerie of animals another time.

Happily here is a book that is well researched and attempts to put the wonder and magic back into the story of the birth of Jesus. In additional it is presented as an educational account to bring interesting facts and archeological understanding to these historical events.

In the process there is an encounter with the familiar with the additional depth of biblical prophecy and explanation of the principle elements of the account. Bringing clarity to the use of a “stable/inn” and “manger” and informative expansion of the supporting cast. Explaining Angels, Sheep and Donkeys and placing the story in a physical and historical setting.

I particularly liked the details around “carpentry” suggesting the records reveal the work was with stone in building, rather than wood and assembly of ‘flat-packs’.

This kind of in depth educational presentation will be gobbled up by your own children who like nothing better than learning new facts and bringing fresh detail to this wonderful and inspirational story of God’s love and plans at work.