Simeon's Gift (Julie Andrews Collection)

Such a fine little story with a great message. I absolutely love the artwork! Wow, my niece and I spent a long time studying all the little details. Beautiful book! It will be read a lot.

That's what my daughter, 37, said about it as I finished tucking in my granddaughter on her 7th birthday. I'd just given her the book with our cake 'n ice cream celebration and was about to burst to read it to her. My daughter, sadly, is NOT a bookaholic like her mother, but it took her no time at all to see how truly special this book is. Others have mentioned human values, art, and music especially. I'd first mention the look of the book itself, whose marvelous illustrations ("illuminations" better describes the art therein) give immediate evidence that THIS is a book to be reckoned with! Having seen many incunabula and medieval illuminated ms. in my lifetime, I was still blown away by the sheer beauty of any spot one could randomly choose, from cover to cover. To comments about the story, already given "weight" or prominence by what one has seen as one turned to the first page of text, I'd add its wholeness: love, desire for self-improvement, the totality of Creation, persistence in The Search even in the face of much disillusionment, even failure; hope, ever present; the beauty 'round us; eyes to see and ears to hear; creativity; the desire to be worthy of one's Beloved; compassion; empathy, courage, and increasing spirituality. If there were a single word to summarize it I'd say "integrity." I can't imagine being a child and learning this story over and over, to ponder after one's night prayers into the dreams of sleep. This is a book to give every Seeker you know, to every new parent and/or grandparent, to a high school graduate sent on his or her Journey. It is a treasure, and yes, it's breathtaking.

One of the most enjoyable books one can enjoy. Thank for your writing enjoyed by so many!! Set to music was a brilliant and wonderful addition! You and Emma have such wonderful ideas in your books. God has not only bless you you with what seems a wonderful family, but talent, even in your grand kids who seem to be an inspiration in all the poems floating through your blood!!! God bless

Not a great story, but a very nice one. The illustrations are great and help to carry the story along, but it does bog down in places. Held the children's interest though, and , after all they are the critics that matter. Vocabulary is just right....nothing to explain or hinder the story. Good and obvious moral.

I purchased this book for my 7 year old granddaughters, and they loved the story. We have all of Julie Andrew's Little Bo books, and everyone loves them,so thought this would be good.She is a great storyteller, and gifted writer. It keeps the girls attention, and is a great read.Would definitely recommend.

I bought this for my Mother. It's a beautiful book with memorable artwork. What a work of art it is. My mother was thrilled to receive it.