Star Bright

PreS-Gr 2—The concept of a child wishing to give a fitting gift to the baby Jesus is not new, but the whimsical illustrations of Peter H. Reynolds frame this Nativity story in a fresh way. In Heaven, angels inhabit platforms connected by long ladders and consult computer monitors to view Earth below. These angels also have a special ability. They can literally light up. The newest winged one, aptly dressed for flying in a vintage flight cap with goggles, a scarf, and a long coat, considers giving presents to the baby that include wind, rain, and music but admits that those gifts are owned, respectively, by the sky, the clouds, and songbirds. Viewing the world below from a heavenly diving board, the newbie observes that it looks dark and lonely and that the traveling Three Kings appear lost. She suddenly knows what her gift will be and transforms into a star that brightens the dark night for the visitors to gather around the baby. The swell of music at the end conveys the joy of the birth. Sound effects of rain, birdsong, and swirling leaves give depth to this video version of Alison McGhee's picture book (S. & S., 2014). Literal-minded viewers may wonder, though, if all of the stars are former angels and whether the newest one will transform back to her former self.