One Wintry Night is thoughtfully written by Ruth Bell Graham and illustrated by the amazingly talented Richard Jesse Watson. This book has been sitting on my bookshelf for many years. It was a gift my mother gave to me for Christmas and I have treasured it ever since.
This beautifully told story is written from the perspective of a young mountain boy, Zeb, who ends up being caught in a snowstorm, all alone. Zeb looks to be around 10 years old. He knows a thing or two about the mountains and decides to find refuge in a cabin his grandfather built years before. The cabin is now inhabited by a woman who takes this young boy in. She has a warm fire crackling and offers him food and water.
Zeb has a swollen ankle and is attended to by the kind woman. Because they are both snow-bound inside the cabin the woman decides to tell Zeb the story of the first Christmas. This Christmas story begins all the way back with the creation of the earth and concludes with the resurrection of the Savior, Jesus Christ.
Richard Jesse Watson’s illustrations are stunning and thought provoking. They describe, in great detail, of the magnificent events that unfolded throughout time. You’ll find yourself gazing at the pictures and looking at each detail before you turn the pages.
Ruth Bell Graham has created a masterpiece—a wonderfully unique version of the Christmas story. She elaborates on the story of how Christ came to be. Yet, it is told in such a way that even young minds can comprehend its meaning.
Many trials and difficulties precede the birth of the Savior but it all culminates so beautifully.
I have enjoyed reading this book many times, but especially around the Christmas season. I love to look at the pictures and even keep the book open so my children can come thumb through the pages and see for themselves.
You’ll want to read this book, either to yourself, or with your family.
On the back of the cover it gives several comments from readers who also loved, One Wintry Night.
“Ruth Bell Graham has written the perfect Christmas book and Richard Jesse Watson has illustrated this lovely story with imaginative, stunning pictures. The story is tried and true, well-told and important. I love the story and I love this book.” -Barbara Bush
“Ruth Bell Graham is as eloquent in print as her husband is at the pulpit. As does nothing else I’ve read or heard, One Wintry Night makes biblical history pertinent to the new generation. And so beautifully!”- Paul Harvey
