Anita’s private Blog

Grade 2 Up–Engaging verses describe the Nativity from the animals point of view. In “A Sheep Speaks’” readers learn about the reactions of the sheep in the fields to the passing of the Wise Men; “Hymn to Joy” encourages the various creatures to add their voices to the celebration. Cunningham’s poetry is sometimes humorous, often powerful, always vivid, and filled with feeling. Lobel’s distinctive watercolor and black pen artwork is the perfect complement. Her animals are totally involved in all that is happening, resonating awe and joy. Many of the interconnected poems would lend themselves nicely to performance or recitation in a holiday program, making this a potentially useful selection for teachers–M.A. read more »