Book Review: 'The Last Straw' by Fredrick Thury

✰✰✰✰✰ Hoshmakaka, an old prideful camel, was chosen to deliver the gifts of the three wise men to the baby Jesus. When the frankincense, myrrh, and gold were placed upon his back, Hoshmakaka foolishly boasted that he was as strong as ten horses. And so as the caravan traveled to Bethlehem to see the baby Jesus, more and more gifts were added to Hoshmakaka's burden. Just when Hoshmakaka reached his limit, a child asked the old camel to take his little gift too. Will a single piece of straw bring down the great camel? Check out the book to learn how Hoshmakaka's burden is lifted.

The Bottom Line: The traditional Christmas story is told in an unusual way...through the point of view of a camel. This is a gentle story about humility and pride. Beautiful watercolors illustrate the camel's plight. Highly recommended reading for the holidays for kids in grade school.

Details: The Last Straw written by Fredrick H. Thury & illustrated by Vlasta van Kampen. Hardcover picture book published by Charlesbridge in 2009. 32 p. ISBN: 978-0-88106-360-8