Christian Birmingham's The Night Before Christmas

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Clement C. Moore's classic poem The Night Before Christmas is undeniably the most widely recognized Christmas ditty of all time. Moore's words evoke images of warm, fuzzy Christmases, long before the invention of TV and microwave turkey. From the brush of artist Christian Birmingham comes this beautifully illustrated edition of the poem, bound in sturdy hardback. This book will delight for years to come. --Naomi Gesinger


From Publishers Weekly
The pictures, of course, turn Moore's "A Visit from St. Nicholas" into Marshall's manic visions of the blithe Victorian fantasy. In addition to the boldly colored illustrations, there are additional lines uttered by Papa in his cap and the household petsa bulldog, cat and chickenas they gaze out the window at Santa and his reindeer: "Holy smoke!" "Never in all my born days!" Another chicken, three more bulldogs and extra cats share sleeping quarters with countless children in bunk beds and with Mama whose night gear includes not only a 'kerchief but a helmet, goggles and an umbrella. In short, the familiar verses are here a production of the humorist's satiric eye and children will love it. Copyright 1985 Reed Business Information, Inc.


From School Library Journal
PreSchool-Grade 3-Whatley gives the Christmas classic a traditional New England setting and lively characterizations of St. Nick, his trusty team, and the man of the house (who here interacts with and receives a present from the Christmas Eve visitor). The bold, realistically rendered watercolors are done on vibrant full-page spreads and have sweeping details that add another dimension to the beloved poem. With dynamic verve, this version captures the rush of the reindeer, the caring and giving nature of St. Nick, and the surprised delight of the father.-A.C. Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.


From AudioFile
Rabbit Ears pairs this story with a celebrated actors and adds a visually appealing picture books to accompany it. While everyone will be familiar with Clement Moore's poem, Meryl Streep, gives a personal touch. The Night Before Christmas is nicely personalized by her enthusiasm. The music composed for the program adds additional dimension though it lacks the distinction of some of the music in this others storytelling series. R.F.W. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine


From Booklist
Artist Whatley creates a surprisingly fresh interpretation of the beloved Christmas poem "The Night before Christmas." Although most versions focus on St. Nick, Whatley remembers that the father of the house narrates the poem, and he captures all of the feelings of surprise and wonder on the very ordinary-looking man's face. He also makes extensive use of dramatic shifts in perspective, as when he puts the viewer at ground level, looking up at the man staring out his bedroom window as skittish reindeer look down from the roof. Whatley's particular triumph is his depiction of those endearing but realistic reindeer, with their flared nostrils, widened eyes, and open mouths. They look energetic and strong enough to pull the sleigh and add greatly to the poem's slightly comical tone. After leaving the dad with his own special gift, Santa takes off once again. The overall effect isn't subtle or dainty, but it is meticulously executed, with tiny pencil strokes creating variations in coloration and texture throughout the book. Whatley gets every detail of the poem right in this book that simply shouts holiday cheer. Susan Dove Lempke


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The telling of Clement C. Moore's beloved poem, "A Visit from St. Nicholas," is as enduring tradition of Christmas, one that has lasted through generations. What makes this edition extra-special is the presentation and exquisitely rendered illustrations by artist Christian Birmingham. The big, outdoor scenes of frosty snow-capped houses and St. Nick's dash through the icy winter sky are full of cool blue while the indoor depictions of St. Nick as he surreptitiously steps through the house are full of warmth, wonder, and a nostalgic Christmasy red that's so "right." In between are charming black and white sketches of toys, reindeer, gifts, and other holiday art. Even the lettering is attractive, with the poem presented in large, easy-to-read old-fashioned type. An enchanting holiday book to treasure. 10" x 13 1/4".


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