Based on a true event which the author had reported on, this lighthearted story follows one reluctant nativity star, Esther the cow, on a special Christmas journey. Besides discovering her importance in the Christmas story, Esther teaches us how God has made us each special in His world. Mildred "Mitzi" Probert Mitzi grew up on a farm near the small town of Yorkville, OH. Her love of animals led her to Ohio Wesleyan University where in 1985 she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in zoology and journalism. After 10 years as a reporter/editor, Mitzi served as director of a World Vision-sponsored program in Jefferson County, OH and continued freelance writing. She and her husband, Eric, reside in Steubenville, OH with their two sons, Kyle and Carson, dog Bubba and hamster, Spot Jr. They attend Wintersville United Methodist Church. Esther is based on one of her last feature stories while working with The Wheeling (WVa) Intelligencer/News-Register. Richard "Ty" Schafrath Ty earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with an emphasis in drawing from Ohio State University in 1988, but a visit to MGM Studios and the Feature Animation Tour a year later in Orlando would change the course of his life. After numerous setbacks, Ty eventually landed a job with Nickelodeon Animation Studios in Hollywood in 1995 as a Storyboard Artist through 2002, when the industry slowed from its frantic pace. "Esther" is Ty's second book in 2010. In addition to illustration, he is a freelance storyboarder, painter, and a caricature artist. Ty, his wife, Jeni, and his step-daughters Aliyah, Alycia, and Sophia, and their dog Kirby, reside in Orlando. Ty is a follower of Jesus Christ and is a member of Harvest Bible Chapel in nearby Windermere.

This interdisciplinary commentary ranges from early midrashic interpretation to contemporary rewritings introducing interpretations of the only biblical book not to mention God. Unearths a wealth of neglected rewritings inspired by the story’s relevance to themes of nationhood, rebellion, providence, revenge, female heroism, Jewish identity, exile, genocide and ‘multiculturalism’ Reveals the various struggles and strategies used by religious commentators to make sense of this only biblical book that does not mention God Asks why Esther is underestimated by contemporary feminist scholars despite a long history of subversive rewritings Compares the most influential Jewish and Christian interpretations and interpreters Includes an introduction to the book’s myriad representations in literature, music, and art Published in the reception-history series, Blackwell Bible Commentaries

Everyone knows the nativity story -- the inn, the stable, and all the rest. If your traditional Christmas pageant has become a bit stale and you want to give it new life, this collection of engaging plays is sure to fit your needs. Keith Hewitt gives the usual narrative a modern treatment by adapting characters and settings from four popular television series (Blue's Clues, CSI, Cops, and Trading Spaces) and transferring them to the events in Bethlehem. By twisting the lens a little to change the focus, these sketches tell how common people are affected by incredible events. Audiences will love these entertaining programs, and they'll have fun watching the characters as they learn a valuable lesson. All four plays are specifically designed to be produced in churches, and can be easily staged by congregations of almost any size. There are roles suitable for a range of ages from kindergarten through adult, allowing you to involve the whole congregation in the production. "Ewe's Clues" is intended primarily for younger children (although adults and older children will also enjoy it) and has a running time of approximately 30 minutes. "Cops: Bethlehem," "CSI: Bethlehem," and "Trading Spaces: Bethlehem" each have a running time of approximately 45 minutes, and are designed for older audiences (though children will get something out of them as well). Keith Hewitt is a youth leader at Wilmot United Methodist Church in Wilmot, Wisconsin, and in his "day job" is a quality analyst. He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay.