Steve Gannaway's The Joy and Wonder of Christmas offers an invitation. "Come, taste and savor the richness of Christmas." Throughout this collection of poetry, readers are touched by wonder. Can it be true that God has dramatically and personally reached out to us in the gift of an infant son? The Joy and Wonder of Christmas encourages us to experience Jesus' birth from the perspectives of Joseph and Mary, shepherds, magi, and even a stable mouse. With crisp verse and vivid images, the book depicts other joys of Christmas: children and family, snow and decorated trees, gifts and peace-making, colorful lights and tables laden with food. Yet, all is not joy in the observance of Christmas. Several poems challenge readers. They pose troubling questions about the opulence of the season and the poverty of the many. The rich Christmas flavors of the poems are brought together in a closing story. "The Tree He Would Never Forget" epitomizes the joy and the wonder that are Christmas.

The Bible contains some of the world's most familiar and beloved stories: David and Goliath; the Nativity; Zacchaeus and the sycamore tree. In Journeys, Steve Gannaway narrates these and fourteen other classic Bible stories. What sets this book apart is that he tells the stories as a poet and storyteller, in verse. As a storyteller, he does not have the same intent as the inspired Bible authors. Thus, his account emphasizes different details. For instance, the Bible does not say whether Samson regained his sight before he died or what an Elamite was doing in Jerusalem on the feast of Pentecost. These questions interest the storyteller in Gannaway, though, and, in Journeys, he explores possible answers. While taking artistic and historical license, the author makes an effort to remain true to the essence and values of each story. He gives the biblical reference at the end of each poem, encouraging readers to examine the original. As the title indicates, changes in location constitute the central theme of the book. The journeys usually involve physical travel. They also typically involve something more. There may be a test of obedience (Noah and Abraham), a change in willingness to obey (Jonah), or an entirely new outlook on life (Zaccheaus and the woman caught committing adultery). Journeys has three parts. Part I consists of Old Testament journeys. Part II focuses on journeys to Bethlehem and the Nativity. Part III contains additional journeys taken by New Testament figures. Gannaway's poetry incorporates rich images and language that almost makes readers feel they are present at the events the poems describe. Illustrator Deborah Thompson enhances this effect with her drawings. They are strong in their simplicity. Many figures have featureless or minimally detailed faces, inviting readers to enter into the roles and immerse themselves in the story. The stories in Journeys are part of the cultural inheritance of the Judeo-Christian world. Read them in the Bible. Experience them anew in Journeys.