Synopsis: Kings and Queens take the spotlight in many of the Old Testament's most memorable stories. Here, in seven stories, Mary Hoffman reveals the colourful personalities behind the thrones of Israel, Egypt, Sheba and Babylon.

Review: This book takes a new slant on Bible stories by focusing on some of its Kings and Queens. These include Moses, David, Belshazzar of Babylon, Queen Esther and the Queen of Sheba. Their colourful stories are told confidently and in good clear language by the author, Mary Hoffman. She has chosen some of the key moments to retell, for example, the story of Solomon's judgement on the baby boy who was claimed by two mothers.

Hoffman tells the familiar story of the Exodus succintly yet keeps the spirit of this awesome event. I was particularly pleased with the chapter on Queen Esther and the Purim story. I have found some versions of this story too complicated for children, but she managed to tell it beautifully. Primary school teachers who study this festival in RE will welcome this.

There are, of course, some strong female role models in the Bible and the book conveys this well. The illustrations, by Christina Balit, are very bright, stylised and sumptuous. Many profiles are used, in Egyptian style. There is a sense within each picture that these are extraordinary people doing extraordinary things, and their dignity communicates strongly. The image of a determined Moses leading his people across the Red Sea is particularly arresting. I was interested to see that the illustrator kept pale skins and blue eyes for all the biblical characters depicted, including the Queen of Sheba. Perhaps this is part of the stylised form of the illustration, where many of the faces appear similar, but part of me feels that an opportunity to heighten visual awareness of different cultures was missed.

Children reading the book will be drawn to explore more deeply within the Bible and I know some young people who would find this a delightful book. It brings the stories to life.

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2008-07-02