This legend seems to originate in France. In it, the fourth wise man is unable to decide what gift is worthy of the child who is Gods chosen king. He travels with the three wise men bringing gold, frankincense and myrrh, but fails to think of a suitable gift. He is so ashamed of himself, that he waits outside the house when the others go to give their offerings to the baby Jesus. To make himself useful, he draws water for all the camels. Then he notices that the star that has led their way is reflected in his bucket. He carries it inside the house - and by a miracle it keeps on shining - a reminder that all we humans can offer is a reflection of Gods own glory.

 

 

This book has been graded for interest at 5-7 years.

There are 32 pages in this book. This book was published in 2006 by SPCK Publishing .

MARY JOSLIN is the author of a number of storybooks for children. Some of her titles are: The Goodbye Boat, The Minstrel's Tale and The Heaven Tree. Richard Johnson's luminous, intricately detailed illustrations perfectly capture the magic of this classic story. A prize-winning artist, he has illustrated many successful picture and novelty books including, for Macmillan, PETER PAN JIGSAW BOOK (978-1-4050-9098-8). Richard lives in Lincolnshire with his partner.