Baboushka, an old woman, is too busy with her household chores to go with the three kings in search of the child. She regrets and unsuccessfully tries to follow them. She continues to try to find the child each year, leaving gifts for children along her journey. The book won the Caldecott medal when it first came out, and the illustrations are surprisingly still lovely although probably in a different sort of way than they were in 1960. The book could be used to discuss the importance of seeking Christ before it is too late. Baboushka is somewhat like Santa Claus when it comes to leaving gifts for children. This Russian folk tale adaptation holds up well. The book includes the music and lyrics to a folk song about the woman. ( )

Retelling of a Russian tale of Baboushka, local equivalent of Santa, who declined an invitation to travel with the Magi. ( )

Illustrations are made up of geometric shapes and bright, primary colors. The illustrations are reminiscent of the the simple, yet precious gifts the Baboushka intends to give the new baby in this Russian Christmas tale. ( )

A wonderful version of the Three Wisemen looking for the Child. The vivid colors in contrast to the simply drawn figures really give it a feel of Russia. An excellent story to add to any holiday collection. ( )

Summary: Baboushka is an elderly woman who is keeping warm in her house in the midst of winter. One evening, three kings knock at her door and ask her to accompany them to search for the “Child.” She offers to join them first thing in the morning but they aren’t able to wait for her so they continue on with their journey. The next morning, Baboushka decides to join them so she searches for them to find Him.
*The Child is referring to Jesus when he was born.

Personal review: Throughout this book, I found myself wondering what Baboushka actually meant. I was engaged while reading it, mostly because I thought I would find out what Baboushka meant. All the text explained was that it was an elderly woman who searches for Him at the same time every year and gives the people that she sees along the way some gifts. I was intrigued by this book because I found myself questioning whether Baboushka was the Child, or if she was Santa, and whether she ever found the Child. I was so intrigued that I ended up doing more research about the story of Baboushka and how Christmas is celebrated in Russia. ( )