The Road to Bethlehem

Kathryn Swegart reviews a new picture book about the Nativity and Epiphany, with illustrations by Brian Wildsmith.

The Road to Bethlehem

By Brian Wildsmith

Published by Sophia Institute Press

Are you ready to hear about the perfect Christmas present for your family? What peace of mind would you have to buy a Christmas present weeks before Christmas? Sophia Institute Press has published a charming picture book by Brian Wildsmith, renowned children’s book author and illustrator. 

A Classic Tale Retold in Vibrant Color

The Road to Bethlehem is filled with vibrant colors and endearing animals sure to capture the imaginations of little ones. Told in classic folk tale style, Wildsmith follows Mary and Joseph on the way to Bethlehem. Before they set out on their epic journey, Mary drops off her cat and dog with a friend. The pets do not want to be left behind and run away in search of their beloved Mary. On the way they meet a fox, a goat, and a bear. Each animal is in a pickle and needs to be rescued. They also meet the three Wise Men and their camels. 

Brian Wildsmith is famous for his artistry, sweeping his brush across the page with delicate colors. He won the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal for illustration in 1962. Author of over eighty children’s books, Wildsmith was a pioneer in the field of picture books. Printing technologies opened endless possibilities for talented young artists like Wildsmith. Not only did Wildsmith have the creative talent for this work, but the artist also had a heart for children. Here is what he had to say: 

Children are all-important, and so is art. Art is food for the soul. And books are a child’s first encounter with art so I felt it was a way I could make a contribution to the world. A drop in the ocean maybe, but picture books offered a chance to communicate the importance of things such as kindness, compassion, friendship, and beauty. (BrianWildsmith.com)

I love this quote and agree wholeheartedly. 

Green, purple, orange and pink colors burst across the page. Bunnies hop across a field. Owls swoop across the sky. Foxes hide in the grass. Bright colors adorn the wings of Gabriel at the Annunciation. Children will eagerly drink it all in, feeding their imaginations with beauty. A spectrum of colors adorns the wings of Gabriel. Wildsmith paints purple roads, rolling hills and detailed architecture. 

True to the Christmas story, Wildsmith turns his genius into gentle plot twists that will keep a child turning the page. 

My Favorite Moments in This Book

I love the snowstorm that covers the shepherd and animals, called to the stable by ornately painted angels. The more you look at the details, the more you can appreciate the exquisite paintings. I also love the stable scene that portrays the star in a snowy sky, geese and roosters, even a hen laying an egg. 

It is fun to play "I Spy" with children as they are absorbed in a picture book. Find the bunny. Find the hen. Find the owl. Eagerly they point to each animal.  

Just when I thought the book was over, I turned the page. There was Mary holding the baby Jesus. Mary wears a bright rose-colored garment. Jesus is bathed in light. The cat is nestled at her feet. The dog sits up and waits for a hug from Jesus. 

Oh, little reader, let Jesus give you a hug too. 

Is this a book you'd like to read? Share your thoughts with the Catholic Mom community! You'll find the comment box below the author's bio and list of recommended articles.

Copyright 2025 Kathryn Swegart
Images: Sophia Institute Press