The Old Testament story of Joseph and his many-colored coat is retold in a clear and straightforward fashion in this well-designed and brightly illustrated edition. The text of the story uses lots of dialogue and emotion, complemented by illustrations in jewel tones with a stylized, flattened aspect reminiscent of Egyptian art. Many of the illustrations use patterned borders or architectural features that add an interesting flavor and sense of motion, and dogs, cats, and other animals are also included on every page. Parents and Sunday School teachers will use this as a read-aloud for younger children, but it will also work well as independent reading for older children. (Picture book/nonfiction. 4-10)