(2) K-3 Translated by Laura Watkinson. Illustrated by Giuliano Ferri. This beautifully illustrated German import tells of the kindness and generosity of the fourth-century saint who became the model for the modern Santa Claus. The clear, engaging text highlights some better-known legends surrounding Nicholas of Myra, including his performing miracles to aid sailors and starving people. Luminous paintings on full-bleed double-page spreads capture the saint's humanity as well as the Greek-Turkish Mediterranean setting.

Reviewer: Martha V. Parravano | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2014

(3) 4-6 St. Nicholas's pious childhood, ministry to the poor, and celebrated miracles are the focus of this book, which features gilded illustrations in the style of centuries-old religious art. Nicholas's dealings with children and the brief coverage of Christmas traditions from around the world may be the book's main sources of appeal for young readers. The Prayer of St. Nicholas and the Beatitudes are included.

Reviewer: Christina Dorr

(3) 4-6 Mayer opens with the familiar poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas," but quickly moves from the secular to the religious as she reveals more about Nicholas, the man behind the myth. Engaging prose relates the generosity of the fourth-century bishop and the miracles he performed. Although some appear blurry, reproductions of medieval and Renaissance paintings add stateliness and elegance to the book.

Reviewer: Carolyn Shute

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Michael Garland. In her introduction, Tompert admits that while much of the material surrounding the life of Saint Nicholas is legend, aspects of his life can be considered fact. The strong text is readable but complex--and children who do not know some church history will be left with many questions. Garland's illustrations appropriately recall both mosaics and the formal composition of traditional stained glass windows.

Reviewer: Maeve Visser Knoth