I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day: An Illustrated Keepsake Book

Gr 2-4–Longfellow’s 1864 poem is set against rosy-hued scenes of a town on Christmas. The refrain of “peace on earth, good-will to men!” is juxtaposed with references to global and interpersonal conflict that are as relevant today as they were to the author’s original Civil War–era setting. The digital illustrations are similar in style to the work of Christian Robinson, with flat coloring in warm, inviting tones. Like the text, they have a timeless quality, reflecting the poem’s message of hope in images of street scenes and the cozy interiors of homes and churches. The intended audience is unclear, as the old-fashioned poetic phrasing is likely to go over the heads of children, while those old enough to understand it may not visit the picture book shelves. For those who can untangle the archaic language, the overall package is lovely.