Fourth Wise Man

This is a great book, especially for anyone trying to teach the real meaning of christmas. It is in the format of a child's book, but its language and subject matter (including the murder of all babies under Herod) is pretty advanced, so it's appropriate for kids who would normally read chapter books: I'd say 7+ years.

This book should be on the gift list for everyone you know! The original story was written by Henry Van Dyke (1852-1933). Susan Summers has rewritten and brought forth such gorgeous illustrations of a very special tale! No holiday season should go by without bringing this wonderful book out to read in a cozy gathering around the fireplace.The Fourth Wise Man tells the story of Artaban who had originally planned to journey to Bethlehem with the other three wisemen to pay homage to the new King of the Jews but was delayed by his acts of kindness to others along the way. He does miss the birth of Jesus but continues a lifelong search of the King with a most wonderful journey and blissful end.This is one of my all time favorites for any season and always brings tears to my eyes to think of the beauty of Artaban's life. Here's what Mr. Van Dyke had to say about his story:"Who seeks for heaven alone to save his soul May keep the path, but will not reach the goal; While he who walks in love may wander far, Yet God will bring him where the blessed are."

A wonderful addition to a family's library. Reading this book should become a family tradition right along with "Twas the Night Before Christmas"

I love this book. And it is great for any age. I was introduced to the book a few years ago. I fell so much in love with the book, I had to read it to my Sunday School class which was a group of 5th grade boys. They were completly drawn into the story. They loved it. It has some great biblical truths within the story, which leads to a great discussion. The illustrations are awesome.

Wow. A book I've read 5 times this week and still brings tears to my eyes. The kids (25 jumpy children who just saw snow outside) were mesmerized. The best investment our Sunday School has made for the church library. Wow!! Such descriptive language and drop-dead gorgeous pictures. Easily transported us all back 2000 years.I read the book to our Sunday School children before class to kick off our Christmas lessons, passed around jewelry with jewels just like Artaban had, then gave out the cheap plastic jewels from a dollar store. The kids are to carry the jewel in a picket to remind them to give a gift to someone this month, like Artaban spent 33 years doing. Every child should have this book!