For families exploring themes of sibling rivalry, jealousy, and ultimately, forgiveness, this vibrant, illustrated adaptation of the classic tale shines with resilience.
A parent might reach for this book when dealing with intense sibling jealousy or wanting to introduce the idea that even deep family hurts can be forgiven. This book is the illustrated libretto from the famous musical, retelling the biblical story of Joseph, his father's favorite, who is sold into slavery by his eleven jealous brothers. The story follows Joseph's incredible journey of resilience, from prisoner to a powerful leader in Egypt, and culminates in a powerful moment of reconciliation. Its vibrant, song-based format makes complex themes of betrayal, perseverance, and forgiveness accessible and engaging for children aged 6-10, opening the door for conversations about managing big feelings within the family.
The brothers plot to kill Joseph and throw him in a pit. The actions are discussed, not shown.
Moral AmbiguityMild
Joseph deceives and tests his brothers harshly before he reveals his identity and forgives them.
Sensitive Topics
The core conflict involves intense sibling rivalry that escalates to attempted murder and selling a family member into slavery. Other topics include false accusation of a sexual nature (Potiphar's wife) and imprisonment. The approach is highly theatrical and metaphorical, not realistic; the music and witty lyrics soften the darker elements. The context is religious (Old Testament), but the presentation is secularized for broad appeal. The resolution is entirely hopeful, emphasizing forgiveness and family reunion.
Ideal Reader
An 8-10 year old who loves music and theater and is grappling with fairness in their own family. This is perfect for a child feeling overshadowed or treated unfairly by siblings, as it validates those feelings while modeling a path towards forgiveness and understanding. It also suits a family looking for an accessible entry point to a classic religious story.
Parent Prep
Parents should preview the story to be ready to discuss the severity of the brothers' actions. The concepts of slavery and false imprisonment will likely require context. The scene with Potiphar's wife is brief and not explicit, but parents may want to frame it as a powerful person lying to get someone in trouble. Acknowledging the story's biblical origins can also be helpful context. A parent has just broken up a fight where one child screamed, "I hate you! You always get everything!" The parent is looking for a story that addresses the destructive power of jealousy but also shows a path back to family love and forgiveness.
Age Experience
A 6-year-old will primarily connect with the spectacle: the colorful coat, the idea of dreams, and the simple narrative of mean brothers and a hero who triumphs. An older child, around 10, will better grasp the emotional complexity: the pain of familial betrayal, the injustice of Joseph's situation, and the profound strength it takes to forgive people who have hurt you so deeply.
What Makes It Special
Unlike standard prose retellings of this biblical story, this book's identity as a libretto makes it unique. The story is told through rhythm, rhyme, and song. This theatrical, often humorous, and anachronistic approach (e.g., Pharaoh as an Elvis-like figure) makes the ancient story feel fresh, modern, and emotionally accessible, using entertainment to deliver a powerful message on complex family dynamics.
Read plot summary
This book presents the libretto of the musical retelling the biblical story of Joseph. As the favored son of Jacob, Joseph is gifted a magnificent coat, inciting the extreme jealousy of his eleven brothers. They sell him into slavery in Egypt, where he is bought by Potiphar. After being falsely accused and imprisoned, Joseph's talent for interpreting dreams brings him to the attention of the Pharaoh. He correctly predicts a famine and is made second-in-command of Egypt. Years later, his starving brothers travel to Egypt seeking food and must appeal to the powerful leader they do not recognize, who tests their character before revealing his identity and offering forgiveness.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
The brothers were very jealous of Joseph's special coat and his dreams. What is a better way they could have handled their feelings instead of hurting him?
2
When Joseph became powerful, he could have punished his brothers for what they did. Why do you think he chose to forgive them instead?
3
Pharaoh listened to Joseph's interpretation of his dream, and it saved the whole country from famine. Why is it sometimes important to listen to people, even if you don't know them well?
4
Jacob showed clear favoritism to Joseph, which made the other brothers feel bad. How can families make sure everyone feels loved and important?
