A Review of Song of the Stars

A Review of Song of the Stars

By Sally Lloyd-Jones, paintings by Alison Jay

We know that some animals can sense an upcoming thunderstorm, tornado, or even an earthquake. Lloyd-Jones’ critters in her Song of Stars have an acute sense that the world is about to change in far greater ways than the weather. Painter Jay captivates readers with beautifully-drawn scenes of creatures scurrying and announcing that “It’s time! It’s time!” This refrain is repeated on almost every page creating meter, rhythm, and not a little excitement until “God’s gift” is born. 

These are theologically astute creatures. They announce that “the world is about to change” and, “the one who made us has come to live with us!” I love that they use these rich descriptions for Christ’s birth when so often children’s authors over-explain and simply the mystery of the Incarnation. This book gets high marks for instilling wonder, reverence, and joy at the birth of Jesus without being sentimental. And as a crazed animal lover, my favorite picture is a swaddled Jesus lying on his back surrounded by two hands and the snouts and beaks of more than 10 creatures. Unfortunately, baby Jesus is very Caucasian with reddish-brown hair, the same coloring as Mary. 

I will read this to our twin 2 ½-year-old grandchildren at Christmas expecting them to thoroughly share the animals’ exuberance that something is about to change the world. Lloyd-Jones never uses his name, Jesus. Instead, she calls him: “Heaven’s Son,” “The Rescuer,” and “God’s great gift.” It’s a great setup for reflection with older children that could go like this: “I wonder why he is called a Rescuer?” “I wonder what you think the animals meant when they said, ‘The one who has made us has come to live with us?’” Wondering questions, allowed to float in the air without expecting a quick response or even an answer, slow us down to reflect and allow the Holy Spirit to speak to the heart of our children and to us. 

This is a superb “Read-to-Me” book for children ages 2 and above. Young readers through 3rd grade and probably older will enjoy it. It’s an outstanding gift book and could be read year after year as part of family advent.