What Star Is This?

by Joseph Slate, Alison Jay (Illustrator)

The spiritually enchanted tale of the arrival of Baby Jesus - from Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem to the comet that illuminated the sky for the Wise Men - detailed in lyrical language and stunning illustrations, perfect for Christmastime.

Genres: Christmas, Picture Books, Childrens, Religion

32 pages, Hardcover

First published September 15, 2005

Reviews

[Jenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully illustrated story that begins in the depths of space. The star sets off on a journey to earth, knowing it has somewhere to be even as other planets and comets continue on their paths. The star is, of course, the star that guides the wisemen and shepherds to baby Jesus. It’s an unexpected perspective for the Christmas story, and one of my favorite things about it is the cracked, mosaic-style to the illustrations, like all of the pieces of this story coming together and fitting into place just where they needed to be to create the moment so Jesus can be born, bringing the promise of peace.

[Dolly · Rating 3 out of 5]

With a short, rhyming narrative and illustrations created with Alkyd oil paint with crackling varnish, this book gives the appearance of an old tale. The narrative combines some space science concepts with astrology and finishes with the birth of Jesus. Overall, it's a good story to read at Christmas, but may not catch the attention of very young children.

[E & E’s Mama · Rating 3 out of 5]

A tiny comet sails through the night sky on the special night that Jesus was born. A creative look at the Christmas star, though a bit hard to follow for Elliot since the blazing comet looked nothing like the star he saw in other nativity picture books

[Jo Oehrlein · Rating 4 out of 5]

From a comet off in the skies to the wise men and the shepherds and then the real real star - baby Jesus.

Told in rhyme.

[Anna · Rating 1 out of 5]

Cute story and illustrations, but if Biblical accuracy is important to you, a comet is not an option. (See Matthew 2 - star "stood" over Bethlehem, not something comets do)

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars! I love the unique approach to the beginnings of the Christ child's star.

[Heidi Ostergaard · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought it was cute! Was the star a comet? I don’t know, probably not but I liked it all the same. I loved the style of illustration.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really great for older children! Love that it focuses on the journey of the comet!

[Sam · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book tells the familiar story of the birth of Christ, with angels, shepherds, and wise men, but from an unusual point of view. The character in the book is a comet. From the depths of space, the comet sweeps in toward the earth, where we discover it is the 'star' that the wise men have been following.

I heard this book read aloud during the children's sermon on New Year's Day, 2023.

[Alice · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.75 stars Do we want to get doctrinal...nah But this book describes the "New Star" when Jesus Born" as a comet. Is it possible, sure, There has to be some sort of heavenly light...It doesn't bother me either way. I don't like the pictures and even though the concept was unique...not destined to be a must read Christmas Classic!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED this book! Such a sweet way to think about the star and baby Jesus. Another good one for Christmas Eve

[Rida · Rating 1 out of 5]

Goes against my belief system and quite frankly I didn't even know it was a religious book?

[Angie Libert · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute for toddlers.

[Teri · Rating 1 out of 5]

Not great. It's about a comet coming to find the baby jesus.