"Mary" by Tomie dePaola is a delightful and poignant children's book that tells the story of the Virgin Mary. With its charming illustrations and heartfelt storytelling, dePaola brings this beloved biblical figure to life, capturing her grace, strength, and unwavering faith.
The book takes us on Mary's journey as she receives the news from the angel Gabriel that she has been chosen to bear God's son. From the miraculous Annunciation to the birth of Jesus and the events that follow, dePaola vividly portrays Mary's experiences, highlighting her humility, devotion, and courage. Through his storytelling, readers are reminded of Mary's pivotal role in the Christmas story and are shown her unwavering love and commitment to fulfilling God's plan.
One of the book's strengths lies in dePaola's signature illustration style. The artwork is vibrant, colorful, and carries a sense of simplicity that appeals to children. Each page is filled with expressive characters and intricate details that bring the story to life in a visually captivating way. Children will be drawn to the illustrations, making this book an engaging read-aloud experience.
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Additionally, dePaola's storytelling is both poetic and accessible. The language is simple, making it easy for young readers to follow along and comprehend the narrative. However, the words also possess a lyrical quality that adds depth and beauty to the story. Through his words, dePaola allows readers to immerse themselves in Mary's world, connecting with her on a personal level and experiencing her range of emotions.
Ultimately, "Mary" is a remarkable book that not only celebrates the biblical figure but also imparts important lessons of faith, courage, and love. With its captivating illustrations and heartfelt storytelling, this book is sure to capture the hearts of both children and adults alike. Whether read during the Christmas season or at any time of the year, "Mary" is a timeless tale that reminds us of the power of faith and the boundless love of a mother.
What are readers saying?
"Mary" by Tomie dePaola has received a diverse range of reviews from readers. Overall, the general consensus is that the book is well-received, offering a positive portrayal of the familiar biblical character, Mary.
Many readers appreciate dePaola's writing style for its simplicity and engaging nature. They find his storytelling abilities captivating and his depiction of Mary authentic. The book is praised for its ability to present Mary's story in a relatable and accessible manner that appeals to both children and adults.
A notable aspect that resonated with readers is the beautiful illustrations throughout the book. DePaola's artistic talent is highly regarded, as the illustrations effectively bring the story to life and aid readers in visualizing the events and characters described in the text.
Readers also commend dePaola for highlighting the virtues and values embodied by Mary. They appreciate how the author portrays her as a strong, courageous, and compassionate woman. The book effectively conveys the importance of faith and the impact that an individual can have on the world.
While the religious aspects of the book are well-received by many, a few reviewers mention that those who are not religious may not find the book as engaging or relevant. However, readers appreciate how dePaola incorporates spiritual themes while still keeping the story accessible to a wide range of individuals.
MaryBook ClassicLiterature HistoricalFiction