(2) K-3 DePaola distills the Nativity story of the Three Wise Men in this gorgeous book first published in 1983, the sumptuous acrylic paintings glowing with blues, greens, and pinks. A brief text follows kings Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar as they discover and follow a new, unfamiliar star; consult with the malign Herod; proceed to Bethlehem to deliver their gifts to the baby Jesus; and then, having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, return to their home countries. An informative note describes the evolution of the story, beginning with its first, detail-less written account in the Gospel of Matthew (the names and number of the Wise Men were added later). A welcome reissue of another title in dePaola's copious Christmas oeuvre.

Reviewer: Martha V. Parravano | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2020

(2) K-3 When a splendid procession led by the three Wise Men passes by Old Befana's house, she attempts to catch up. She never does--but is transformed into a Christmastime visitor who leaves gifts for children and sweeps their rooms clean. DePaola's ink and watercolor illustrations use flowing lines and glowing colors to propel the story (based on Italian legend) and attract the eye.

Reviewer: Martha V. Parravano | Horn Book Magazine Issue: December, 1980; November, 2017