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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Just Enough Room for Christmas by Robin Currie offers a warm retelling of the nativity through the perspective of Old Hannah, a barnyard cow. The story begins with Old Hannah enjoying her quiet barn, only to be interrupted by a steady stream of visitors seeking shelter from the cold. One by one, a horse, goat, dog, cat, and even a mouse arrive, filling the small space with sound and commotion. The humor of animals crowding into the barn and the escalating chaos provide lighthearted entertainment, while the final quiet, when Mary, Joseph, and the newborn baby are welcomed, introduces the solemnity of the Christmas story.
The picture book uses cumulative storytelling to draw children into the familiar Christmas narrative while adding gentle humor and rhythmic repetition. This makes the tale ideal for reading aloud, as children can join in on the repeated phrases and animal sounds, which build anticipation for the arrival of the holy family. Estelle Corke’s illustrations complement the text beautifully. The warmth of the artwork underscores the central message of hospitality and kindness, even when space is scarce. The closing images, which show the newborn child in the crowded but peaceful barn, create a tender finish. The writing strikes a careful balance between lively pacing and reverence for the central moment of the nativity. Currie writes with simplicity, and for families with young children, the brevity and charm work to hold attention and highlight the spirit of the season. Just Enough Room for Christmas is a lovely addition to holiday reading, combining humor, warmth, and gentle reverence in a way that invites children to experience the nativity story with understanding.
