Parents' Guide to

Holy Night and Little Star: A Story for Christmas

By Regan McMahon, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 3+

Helpful star oversees kid-friendly biblical nativity.

Book Mitali Perkins Holiday 2023
Holy Night and Little Star book cover: Mary rides a donkey, Joseph leads them on their path, a human-like star character flies above them on a starry night

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What's the Story?

As HOLY NIGHT AND LITTLE STAR begins, the human-looking Little Star is in her usual spot, twinkling in the sky over Bethlehem. Then news spreads through the galaxy that "Maker" is gathering the stars, planets, sun and moon for an announcement. "Holy Night is coming! I want you to play a part!" the unseen Maker tells them. The plan is for them to rise high and "shine with my singers," and a few must "lead travelers to Bethlehem." Little Star thinks it sounds scary, but after bigger stars and the planets say yes, and Maker asks her directly, she joins in. She sees shepherds running to a stable where a couple and their baby are, and recognizes Maker's eyes in the baby's gaze. The group of stars then guides "strangers" to worship "the King," including three "Royal visitors" who've brought gifts. The stars and planets "whirled in celebration," including Little Star.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

This beautifully illustrated nativity story has lots of kid-appeal with a cute, reluctant star finding a key role to play in witnessing Jesus' birth. The human-like stars and planets may be a bit confusing for little ones, as will the term "Maker" for God. But they'll probably just go with it, especially if they already know who's who from their own religious upbringing. The swirling images of starlight will sweep readers away in Holy Night and Little Star, a story that mixes celestial fantasy, down-to-earth ancient desert settings, and a Christian theological perspective: "This Child ... was Maker."

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the nativity story in Holy Night and Little Star. How is this story different from other versions you know from the Bible, books, movies, or Christmas carols?

  • How does Little Star show courage, even though she's a little scared?

  • How does Little Star help the shepherds? How does she help the baby?

Book Details

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