Not Just for Christmas

When we hear the word "Magi," typically thoughts of Christmas and the three kings come to mind or O.Henry's famous story "The Gift of the Magi." We don't often think about how the individuals who were part of the group of people called "Magi" actually played a significant role and were important to their culture. When Patrick Carr's newest book The End of the Magi popped up on my reading list, I immediately jumped to the connection with Christmas but as I read the book, I discovered it was so much more.

Patrick Carr delves into the story of the Magi, and one apprentice specifically, well before the birth of Christ. This allows Carr to provide a very detailed account of the Magi, their role in society, and how they came to follow the star. Granted, The End of the Magi is fiction, but Carr has invested time in research as well. The story follow apprentice Magi Myrad from his initial dream regarding a star to the time when the star stops and he finds what he has sought. However, The End of the Magi does not end there. Carr picks up the story of the Magi again 30 years later and interjects them into the events of Holy Week as well. This part of the story brings the Magi full circle and provides insight into Carr's choice of title as well.

The End of the Magi is a great book to read around Christmas given who the main characters are and their final destination. However, it is a book that could be enjoyed at any time of the year given Carr's excellent writing and research. I found that Carr's story emphasizes that most people of this time period, including the Magi, expected the Messiah to overthrow Rome. This reminder is important. While not necessarily a book for children, The End of the Magi is appropriate for high school and up and perhaps to be read aloud to junior high. As such, it might fit the age group that has outgrown Arnold Ytriede's excellent Advent books but are still looking for a Christmas read-aloud.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received The End of the Magi via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.