CHRISTMAS PICTURE BOOKS : The Night Before Christmas by Clement Moore (two versions)
ABOUT THE BOOK
Since it was first
published nearly 200 years ago “The Night Before Christmas” has
enchanted readers young and old with the story of St. Nicholas landing
on a snowy roof, climbing down the chimney, and filling all of the
stockings with gifts before riding off in his sleigh, wishing “Happy
Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”
Anna Lobel’s stunning, richly detailed illustrations for the poem have been cherished by families for over thirty years. Portraying a lush Victorian New York setting, children are snug in their beds, a cat is asleep under the tree, and the quiet city is blanketed with snow. As Santa Claus leaves the city after delivering gifts, he flies over a stunning moonlit Brooklyn Bridge.
This beautiful, brand-new edition has been lovingly restored and is a gift that will be treasured year after year.
Anna Lobel’s stunning, richly detailed illustrations for the poem have been cherished by families for over thirty years. Portraying a lush Victorian New York setting, children are snug in their beds, a cat is asleep under the tree, and the quiet city is blanketed with snow. As Santa Claus leaves the city after delivering gifts, he flies over a stunning moonlit Brooklyn Bridge.
This beautiful, brand-new edition has been lovingly restored and is a gift that will be treasured year after year.
REVIEW
Clement Moore's famous poem has been illustrated many, many times. And it's understandable that it has been so, with the great imagery and fun word choice that makes the poem so enjoyable to read out loud. Finding a version that has illustrations you like can be a bit more challenging. I have to admit, this version isn't my favorite. Some may like the old-fashioned feel and the smiling moon but it doesn't appeal so much to me. That said, the art is lovely, especially the two page spread with Santa flying over the bridge. So, if you are looking for art that feels as old-fashioned as the poem itself, this version may work for you.
ABOUT THE BOOK
#1 New York Times bestselling illustrator Loren Long presents a fresh, modern take on the classic Christmas poem about a visit from Santa Claus in this gorgeous new edition.
Cozy up with the timeless tale that’s been re-imagined for the twenty-first century by acclaimed artist Loren Long. Featuring four different homes that reflect the diverse world we live in, Long’s lush landscapes and charming scenes capture the wonder and magic of Christmas.
This gorgeous, modern edition of The Night Before Christmas will delight readers old and new and is a must-have for every family library.
An illustrator’s note is included that gives further context to Long’s approach for retelling this classic.
REVIEW
Clement Moore's poem has been illustrated many times by many different illustrators. Each illustrator presents the poem in his or her own way. And each version will appeal to different readers. Loren Long is one of my personal favorite illustrators. I've yet to find a book he's illustrated that I haven't enjoyed the illustrations. And this book is no different. I think what I enjoy most about this version is the unique way Long chose to illustrate it. Instead of focusing in on one person's experience seeing Santa, Long illustrates four different homes and families being visited by Santa. A farm, a city apartment, a mobile home park, and a tropical village all receive a visit from Santa. This technique could have been awkward, but Long pulls it off beautifully by making each home and the people living in it stand out clearly. It's obvious which home is being visited. I also enjoyed the different depiction of Santa. This Santa isn't big and hulking, but small and round. He's still plenty jolly as he goes about his business. A lovely, unique addition to a continually growing collection of illustrated versions of Moore's poem.
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