the trees of the dancing goats by patricia polacco

Richly hued, luminescent illustrations radiate from the pages an introduction and author’s note provide additional information. The mysteries and miracles of the season are kept at bay this simple narrative spells everything out, resulting in a primer on the tradition.

The story takes a supernatural twist when Sister Angie discovers that the figures in the church’s manger scene have come to life, temporarily, for the procession.

When Lupe and Roberto finally show up, the other couple is nowhere to be found. After several rebuffs, the couple arrives at the gates of the courtyard these open and the entire assembly enters to celebrate. The whole village participates in the procession, from the singers who follow Mary and Joseph, to the “devils” who attempt to prevent the weary travelers from finding lodging. However, a couple arrives just in time to take the place of the missing players. When Sister Angie becomes ill and Lupe and Roberto become stranded in a heavy snowstorm, it seems as if the celebration will be delayed. Sister Angie is overjoyed when her niece Lupe and her husband are selected to play Mary and Joseph-here, Maria and José-for Las Posadas, the reenactment of the journey into Bethlehem. Soon her living room is filled with trees - but that is only the first miracle of many during an incredible holiday season.īased on a long cherished childhood memory, this story celebrates the miracle of true friendship.A wondrous occurrence, an ancient tradition, and an elderly nun’s abiding faith are the basis of this moving Chirstmas tale from dePaola (26 Fairmount Avenue, p. Although it is a sacrifice, Trisha realizes that Grampa's carved animals are the perfect answer. Then Grampa has an inspiration: they will cut down trees, decorate them, and secretly deliver them to the neighbors, 'But what can we decorate them with?' Babushka asks.

It is difficult for them to enjoy their Hanukkah feast when they know that their neighbors won't be able to celebrate their holiday. Trisha's family is one of the few who has been spared from the epidemic. Instead they are all bedridden with scarlet fever. In the middle of her family's preparation for the festival of lights, Trisha visits her closest neighbors, expecting to find them decorating their house for Christmas. Trisha loves the eight days of Hanukkah, when her mother stays home from work, her Babushka makes delicious potato latkes, and her Grampa carves wonderful animals out of wood as gifts for Trisha and her brother.

The trees of the dancing goats by patricia polacco