The Three Kings: The Journey of the Magi

K-Gr 2—Following the publication of Elschner's The Nativity, the author continues her retelling of the Christmas story with this work that focuses on the three kings. The text is accessible and engaging, introducing the travelers as men both mysterious and wise. Paintings by Renaissance masters provide a lavish artistic depiction of the journey of the magi to find the savior, including details from larger works that are duly reflected in the narrative. For example, opposite a crowded scene from The Procession of the Magi by Benozzo Gozzoli, the text reads, "Behind the kings, a crowd had gathered. There was talking, shoving, scolding and laughter. Everyone wanted to see the child. Everyone wanted a place by the manger." In this way the art enhances the story without intimidating young readers. The final page includes photographs of the Shrine of the Three Kings in Cologne, as well as a description of the celebration of the Epiphany. A list of the master works is located on the verso.