I had mixed feelings about this book after reading it. I liked the language used in the collection of poems and the illustrations were very colorful and nice for children to look at. The organization of writing was easy for a child to follow because each page was about a different farm animal. There was little symbolism which is good for young readers to help them better understand what they are reading. I did not like that this story was centered around a religious standpoint. The plot was mainly religious based so this book could not be read in many public school environments. The main idea of this anthology was that all of the farm creatures would come together for baby jesus to celebrate. ( )

Lovely poetry collection! Reminiscent of "Prayers From the Ark" in its premise of collecting poetic reactions from various animal perspectives on a well-known Biblical event :) Beautifully done, and an excellent "quiet" read helpful in cultivating a hopeful, anticipatory spirit during Advent. I would love to find a bound copy :)

Really enjoyed this collection of short poems from a variety of authors. Each animal was gifted the ability to speak in order to more fully worship Jesus' at his arrival. The illustrations and poetry are both attractive for young and old readers alike. It could be read aloud to a group in order like its own story unlike many poetry collections. I could see children writing their own simple welcome to baby Jesus at Christmas as an extension after reading or maybe a child might choose another animal not included in this book and write another poem for the collection. The illustrations are beautiful. I was given this book from Early Reviewers for free in return for a review. ( )

Hopkins has collected poems told about the Nativity from the view of various animals. Manger would make a wonderful read-aloud book during December. The illustrations are lovely, bright and expressive. The artwork alone makes the book worth it. The species chosen are all inclusive - no matter if they existed in the Middle East then or would be found near the stable, they are welcomed here. Like all poetry collections, some individual poems are more on-point than others, and some authors perhaps haven't even met a member of the species they are writing as. That bit aside, it's a very nice collection for the holidays. ( )

Manger, a collection of poems selected by Lee Bennet Hopkins, is a beautifully illustrated book for the Christmas season. The art work, by Helen Cann, features rich colors and a whimsical style. Each poem tells about the nativity from the perspective of one of the barnyard animals. My children were intrigued when they saw poems not only about the sheep and the cow, but also about unexpected creatures, such as the spider, and even the fish. I'm pleased to be able to add this collection to our Advent reading.