Joseph

A literally gilt-edged retelling of the story of Joseph and his coat of many colours, with sumptuous illustrations by Wildsmith that are both intricate and spectacular. The double page spreads are ravishing compositions with a wealth of detail and movement. The drama is seen, for the most part, as if by a distant observer, and the central characters are often dwarfed by the luxuriance and opulence of an Ancient Egypt of film set proportions. The striped tents of the Jewish desert herdsmen look plain by comparison, although it is Jacob, the patriarch, in his white robes, who is most powerfully drawn and who dominates the final reconciliation scenes. This is a book to be enjoyed by primary school children, mostly for the pleasure it gives the eye.