Parables: Stories Jesus Told

Rating:
Summary: Almost ruined by intrusive commentary
Review: "Parables: Stories Jesus Told" features text adapted by Mary Hoffman and art by Jackie Morris. This children's book presents several of the classic parables of Jesus of Nazareth. The retold stories include the parables of the good Samaritan, the sower, the prodigal son, the unforgiving servant, and more.

The stories are retold with effective simplicity. Morris' artwork is truly wonderful; her warm, rich tones bring to life the Middle East of Jesus' era. Her human faces are full of emotion, and she is also masterful at illustrating sheep, a wheatfield, flatbreads, and other elements.

The only bad thing about this book are the preachy, hit-you-over-the-head afterwords that follow each retold parable. These stories are some of the world's great literature, and should be allowed to speak for themselves; for a children's book, they only need the accompaniment of great artwork.

Rating:
Summary: Parables: Stories Jesus Told
Review: This is a beautifully written and illustrated book. I love reading it to my children, who love to listen to it. I hope Mary Hoffman will write another, as her prose is so well understood by my kids. Just wonderful!