ONE WISE SHEEP

In this inspired take on the Nativity, seven sheep venture from their field to find a special baby.

In a droll narrative intentionally packed with anachronisms, the small flock, each with a distinguishing characteristic (a leg cast, a retainer in a case, a snuffly nose), hears the news about the miraculous baby from a goat. Finding their shepherds gone (they heard the good tidings earlier from angels), they set out to visit the town where the baby is said to be. Various misadventures ensue, and the sheep encounter other animals, including a donkey who tells them: “A couple of guys on camels just turned up in strangely shaped hats, bringing all kinds of gifts from the East.” Unfortunately, they learn that the baby and his family have moved on from the manger in a scrapyard. The sheep are indeed disappointed, having created their own present: a song that starts out “Si-i-lent niiiight”—a song that they speculate will be known for centuries. Occasional illustrations begin with the sheep depicted in line drawings with mono-color washes; more color is added along the way. Hub manages a rare feat—a strikingly original Christmas tale that balances whimsy, wry humor, and moments of joy and tenderness. Originally published in German and spawning an animated film in that language, this tale begs to be read aloud, provided the listeners already know the traditional version of the Nativity story.

A Christmas tale to hold the whole family spellbound.