ISBN 0824965663 - I know you're surprised, aren't you? Only 2 stars? For what looks like a very cute Christmas book for kids? I know, I was surprised too! I have my reasons, though. While it's possible, even probable, that the new version of this book deserves 5 stars, the version I have in my hand does not.
While the song ("O Little Town of Bethlehem") plays and stars flash in the sky above Bethlehem, the story of the night Jesus was born is told.
First, let me say this: the book could, and should, be a five star book. It is adorable, when it is new. The song and lights are engaging and the illustrations are as cute as they could possibly be. If that was all there was to the book, I'd be 5-starring it, absolutely; the thing is, that's not all there is to it.
There are two versions of this book, both with the same ISBN. The original is the one I have (skip to the last paragraph for the new version). Here's the deal - when you get this book, the song will seem loud. That will pass. It is not because you're getting old and losing your hearing, or because you've had the book a while and are getting used to it. It happens because, as the batteries die, the song and lights fade. And, the kicker is... the batteries cannot be replaced without almost completely destroying the book. There is no battery compartment to open on this version. Slowly, the lights will die out, the song will eventually turn into a monotonous chirp and you will have a book that, although still readable, just isn't what it used to be.
If you do buy it, I suggest you either buy it new or make sure that the used copy that you get has replaceable batteries.
- AnnaLovesBooks
While the song ("O Little Town of Bethlehem") plays and stars flash in the sky above Bethlehem, the story of the night Jesus was born is told.
First, let me say this: the book could, and should, be a five star book. It is adorable, when it is new. The song and lights are engaging and the illustrations are as cute as they could possibly be. If that was all there was to the book, I'd be 5-starring it, absolutely; the thing is, that's not all there is to it.
There are two versions of this book, both with the same ISBN. The original is the one I have (skip to the last paragraph for the new version). Here's the deal - when you get this book, the song will seem loud. That will pass. It is not because you're getting old and losing your hearing, or because you've had the book a while and are getting used to it. It happens because, as the batteries die, the song and lights fade. And, the kicker is... the batteries cannot be replaced without almost completely destroying the book. There is no battery compartment to open on this version. Slowly, the lights will die out, the song will eventually turn into a monotonous chirp and you will have a book that, although still readable, just isn't what it used to be.
If you do buy it, I suggest you either buy it new or make sure that the used copy that you get has replaceable batteries.
- AnnaLovesBooks
