SYRACUSE, N.Y. - s4story -- A poignant picture book imagines the pivotal trek by Mary and Joseph and a young helper in the days leading up to Jesus' birth.

Grey Eyed Publishing announces the release of a unique picture book telling of the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. Beautifully written by Peggy Dudarchik and illustrated by Russell Mason, Miriam and Naomi: A Christmas Story is about a young girl and her goat who accompany the expectant parents and show great kindness to them on the difficult trip from Nazareth. The book was the recipient of a 19^th Annual National Indie Excellence Award (https://www.indieexcellence.com/19th-annual-winners)

Dudarchik explains that she was inspired to write the story after being asked in a spiritual retreat to visualize Mary and Joseph on the journey to Bethlehem. "I started thinking about that journey," says Dudarchik, "which in turn led to months of research on the geography of Israel, the architecture of the area in the first century, the clothing…Mary would have walked ninety miles in ten days with many legs of the journey being dangerous."

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In Dudarchik's story, a young girl from Nazareth named Miriam and her best friend, a goat named Naomi, become traveling companions to the village carpenter, Joseph, and his pregnant wife, Mary, as they head to Bethlehem when Joseph is required to be part of a birth count. Miriam is a kind and generous girl who takes great care of her beloved goat and is always thinking of others. She is excited for the adventure of helping Mary.

On the long and difficult journey, Miriam shows many kindnesses to Mary, often sacrificing her own comfort to make sure the expectant woman is cared for. Her benevolence does not go unnoticed when, on the day Mary gives birth, the girl is praised by an angel who arrives to welcome Jesus, the baby who will grow up to share his like-minded love and compassion with the world.

This heartwarming and familiar important story with a fresh re-envisioning of what the momentous Christmas journey might have been is a perfect addition to classroom and home libraries and an enduring gift for a holiday reading tradition.

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Enthusiastic reviews are praising the story:

"Simply gorgeous and exceptionally outstanding are the illustrations of Russell Mason, which capture the landscapes and peoples of Biblical times as Peggy Dudarchik's engaging story unfolds." – D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer, Midwest Book Review

"Miriam and Naomi is a delightful addition to holiday reading traditions. It offers a unique perspective on a timeless story, enriched by breathtaking illustrations. This book will surely become a cherished favorite and a reminder of the true spirit of Christmas." - Readers' Favorites

"An enchanting retelling that offers a meaningful lens on the Christmas story - just right for families and children eager to experience the season's magic and message of love." - The Prairies Book Review

If you would like more information about author Peggy Dudarchik and Miriam and Naomi: A Christmas Story, please contact peggy@peggydudarchik.com.