Little Star by Anthony DeStefano is a children’s book that teaches in clever ways the biblical adage “the first shall be last and the last shall be first.” The main character, a little insignificant star, always behind in brightness and significance, is surprised and delighted to know that he has the privilege and responsibility to shine a light on a new King, baby Jesus, who was born in a lowly stable under circumstances less-than desirable for a king. The author tells this brief story by paralleling the feelings of a star who feels lonely and dejected and the experience of a king Jesus. By focusing his light on the baby Jesus, the unexpected type of king, Little Star begins to find his purpose, and shines ever so brightly. While the ending feels a bit anti-climactic for an adult reader, children will be able to connect the meaning of the story of Jesus and the star that many Christians place on their Christmas tree each year.
The artwork is good but not vibrant in all areas, and the typeface was non-unique and did not feel part of the design of the book. The story has plenty of potential but the ending could have been worked out a little more. While not destined to become a classic the story provides a cute but cliché way of telling the story of the Christmas tree star.
Disclaimer: “I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.”
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