Women of the Nativity: an Advent and Christmas journey in nine stories

Author Paula Gooder (Illustrated by Ally Barrett)
Publisher Church House Publishing £10.99
Format pbk
ISBN 9781781404607

We all love a book for the Christmas season, but sometimes our search for something a little different fails to bear much fruit. Not so on this occasion! Paula has presented us with a wealth of biblical knowledge, enhanced by her in-depth research, and retold in a unique way through the eyes of women – some familiar, others we meet for the first time. Ally Barrett’s illustrations bring the text to life in a beautiful and emotional way as she links each picture with the simplicity of a piece of white cloth. The book takes us through Advent to Candlemas addressing each liturgical day between and linking with the appointed biblical passages. Reflective questions and background perspectives make the book appropriate for group or individual study, connecting with familiar women (Sarah, Rachel, Huldah, Elizabeth, Mary, Anna) and some maybe newer to us but typical of women of their day (Mariamne, Abigail, Shiphrah). Paula is a great storyteller. Her combination of biblical and historical characters with material of her own divinely inspired imagination certainly provides a treat for mature Christians who are looking for something fresh and thought-provoking. Maybe this could prove a little confusing for those newer to the faith. Thank you, Paula and Ally, for helping us to ponder anew the mystery of Incarnation, and to enter more deeply into the heart of the Christmas season.

Reviewed by Betty Taylor