Sarah's Bead

This unusual story for children, which is lyrically and beautifully ilustrated and written by Caroline Garrett combines a wonderful imagination with a spiritual vision and a love for children and animals. The book exudes gentleness and calm as well communicating its profound message in a clear way.

Sarah's Bead is a refreshing, warm retelling of an ageless story. I was deeply touched by this book. As a creative writing teacher, I often look for books to share with my students as a read aloud. This books explores with students and adults the joys of sacrifice, of giving, and of love. The book not only touches on a Christian theme, but a universal one that can be shared by all people of different faiths. The words of the story are beautifully enhanced by the illustrations.

The nativity story, one that is familiar to many, is retold from the perspective of a pack-rat named Sarah. In this children's book, Sarah learns about hope and love by giving the Baby King her most prized possession--a lovely green bead! The full-page color illustrations bring the story to life as they capture the magic and wonder of the miracle of the birth of Christ. Sarah's Bead is a delightful story that is appropriate for both young and old and would be a wonderful treasure in any family's storybook collection!

This beautifully illustrated and emotionally charged childrens book left me teary eyed and filled with the spirit of Gods love for all creatures. The ever familiar nativity story of the birth of Jesus is refreshingly told through the eyes of a pack rat named Sarah. As a gift to the Crist Child she yields her most treasured possession, a shiny bead tied about the new born king's wrist with a special thread from King Davids robe, a gift from a pack rat travelling with the Three Wise Men. In so doing she experiences Gods love and understands the miracle taking place. The book makes an ideal holiday gift and can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. As a childrens book for reading it is ideally suited for ages 5 to 9.