Good King Wenceslas

Good King Wenceslas looked out
on the Feast of Stephen,
when the snow lay round about,
deep and crisp and even.

Brightly shone the moon that night,
though the frost was cruel,
when a poor man came in sight,
gathering winter fuel.This story, based on actual events that occurred in the tenth century, tells of a kind-hearted king and his page who set out to help a poor man on a cold winter's night and experience a miracle along the way. Tim Ladwig's energetic paintings bring new life to the familiar words and remind readers of all ages that helping others is a blessing.

AWARDS and RECOGNITIONS

ForeWord Magazine Book of the Year Awards, Finalist, Children's Picture Book (2006)
Bank Street College, Best Children's Books of the Year (2006)

The Horn Book Guide
"The visual presentation of this traditional Christmas carol will awaken new readers to its story. . . . The contrast in the mixed-media art between the barren winter landscapes and the hearth-warmed kitchens of cottage and castle is lovely."

Booklist
"Ladwig's oversize double-page spreads are engaging and expressive. . . . A holiday treat."

School Library Journal
"The well-known carol about a 10th-century Bohemian king is brought to life through Ladwig's vibrant, realistic paintings. . . [A lovely book suitable for reading aloud."

New York Times Book Review
"The carol's lyrics, pleasingly antiquated and rousingly celebratory about the act of giving, offer a challenge to the consumer frenzy that beckons every boy and girl, naughty or nice, each December."