Ituku’s Christmas Journey is an attractive book featuring an illustration of a small Inuit boy and his dog standing in a wintry scene by an igloo. It is hard back and large and is published by Lion.

Elena Pasquali has a love for and knowledge of folk tales from around the world and when on a kayaking expedition to Greenland she heard this story and was inspired to bring it to wider attention. It is about is small boy and his dog on a big journey to find Jesus. There are many wise and wonderful creatures who help them on their way and the story ends when their journey does, at a stable looking at the small baby who is king of heaven and Ituku and his dog deciding that they will tell everyone they meet of their wonderful discovery.

What did you like about it?

I loved the characters, I loved the illustrations, Kolanovic has done a wonderful job there. The unfolding of the story was lovely, and the whole thing was gentle and full of compassion.

What didn't you like?

I was a little bit concerned about the way the fact, the birth of Jesus Christ, was mixed up with the fiction of the little Inuit boy on his way to see them over the ice. I thought for a small child being introduced to Christmas as a truthful concept, this could confuse matters a little.

What will you still remember a year from now?

It is memorable for being a new and fresh take on an ages old, much told story.

Who would you recommend this book to?

I would recommend this book to parents of young children.

Can you give us a couple of good quotes from the book?

The yellow shape became a giant polar bear, with eyes of midnight blue. It lowered it’s head closer to Ituku and Jaq. ‘Do not be afraid,’ said the bear. It’s voice was deep but very gentle. ‘I bring you good news. The king of heaven has been born on earth. You must go and look for him.’

All at once, Ituku knew he was looking at the ling of heaven. He stood there in wonder. Jaq came as close as he dared. The baby laughed for joy. Ituku shared the fish he had caught; the little family shared their bread and wine.

review by Hilary