You have probably heard the traditional Christmas ballad, Good King Wenceslas, but do you know the true story that inspired the song?

"Good King Wenceslas looked out on the Feast of Stephen,
When the snow lay round about, deep and crisp and even.
Brightly shone the moon that night, though the frost was cruel,
When a poor man came in sight, gathering winter fuel."

This story, based on actual events that occurred in the tenth century, tells of a kind-hearted king (St. Wenceslas of Bohemia) and his page who set out to help a poor man on a cold winter's night, (the feast of St. Stephen, the second day of Christmas.) Along the way, they experience a miracle.

"Therefore,Christian men, be sure
Wealth or rank possessing
Ye, who now will bless the poor
Shall yourselves find blessing"

Tim Ladwig's energetic paintings bring new life to the familiar words and remind readers of all ages that helping others is a blessing.

After reading the book together, practice the song.

Hardcover. Full-color. by John Mason Neale, illustrated by Tim Ladwig