(3) K-3 Translated by Sibylle Kazeroid. Illustrated by Alessandra Roberti. The miracle of the Nativity is seen through the eyes of Miriam, an innkeeper's daughter in Bethlehem. Desperate to be bigger and do more important things, Miriam finally gets her chance when she gives her blanket to the newborn baby in the stable. Roberti's illustrations lend a soft, heavenly aura to the quiet Christmas tale, whose child perspective never wavers.

Reviewer: Amanda Sullivan

(4) K-3 Translated by Marianne Martens. Illustrated by Alessandra Roberti. This story describes young Abel's budding friendship with a greedy wolf. Abel has left his parents' home to seek his future alone, and the cherished if prosaic gifts they bestow upon him allow him to eat well and befriend the angry wolf. Although the story has an abrupt ending, Roberti's illustrations are lush and moody, showing the forest as a mysterious place.

Reviewer: Sherry Eskin