By Alidz Agbabian

This book, in Armenian, features illustrations by acclaimed artist Vachag (Vachik Ter-Sarkissian) and includes a compact disc of traditional Armenian Christmas carols.

The folk tale is based on the story of the birth of Jesus Christ and his subsequent rescue from the wrath of King Herod.

On learning of a prophecy that the infant Jesus will grow up to become a king, Herod orders all newborns in Bethlehem to be killed. Mary and Joseph take the infant Christ and flee to Egypt. On their journey, they find shelter in a cave, where, a tiny spider, fascinated by Christ's innocent and lovely features, weaves a great, protective web. When Herod's soldiers arrive on the scene and notice the massive web at the entrance to the caf, they decide not to enter. Thus, the spider saves Jesus' life.

To give the text an authentically traditional texture, the author has incorporated narrative images and linguistic patterns from the Bible, from traditional Armenian Christmas carols, and 10-th century Armenian poet, philosopher, and musician Krikor Naregatsi.

The accompanying compact disc includes Armenian folk carols from the historic Armenian regions of Shadakh and Aintab. The a cappella songs are performed by a quartet of female singers led by Areni Aghabian.

Tracks include:
Mamig-Mamig
Avedis
Khungi Dzar
Soorp Asdvadz

36 pages, soft cover

ISBN# 0965550788