Geraldine McCaughrean has a gift for bringing ancient tales vividly to life. In 'The Jesse Tree', she weaves fresh retellings of familiar Bible events into a rich and satisfying contemporary tale.

As the stories unfold - from the Garden of Eden to the Nativity in Bethlehem - so another story is being played out inside a dusty church. When a young holidaymaker meets an old craftsman, he persuades him to tell the stories behind the images he is carving.

As the Jesse tree grows, so a bond of friendship develops between the old man and the boy. Is it mere chance that has brought the two together?

Bee Willey's evocative and striking illustrations enhance both the modernday story and the amazing Bible tales that are retold.

'The Jesse Tree' will enthrall both those who know and love the Bible tales and those coming to them for the first time.