December Holidays

K-Gr 3–Each of these regional titles begins with a map and a letter from one cousin to another about an upcoming visit. The books can be used either as holiday songbooks (each with its own version of the standard) or as a mini travelogue, as every other page includes a letter home about the sights visited in each area, including historical tidbits. New York City includes sidewalk Santas, bridges gleaming, and a pigeon in a Central Park tree. Virginia features tall ships, guiding lights (lighthouses), and a cardinal in a dogwood tree. California highlights hummingbirds, cable cars, and a quail in a redwood tree. Bright and colorful cartoon art makes these books acceptable additions for libraries in the featured states.–Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

K-Gr 3–Rita and her not-very-doglike dog spend Christmas Eve writing letters to Santa, decorating their trees (the pup’s is covered with sausages, salami, and bologna), creating a unique snack for Santa and the reindeer, and performing a special concert. A noise in the night causes Whatsit to bark madly (because sometimes he does act like a dog). Has he scared away Santa before he could make his delivery? Don’t be silly. There is, of course, the obligatory “awww…” moment at the end. Pen and ink vignettes highlighted with splotches of red and the small format make this best suited to one-on-one sharing. An endearing, but additional, package.–Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 2–It is Christmastime on the farm, and both the humans and the animals are filled with anticipation. The much-awaited day comes, bringing presents under the tree and a new foal to the stable. The lovely understated text is full of sensory details, and the evocative soft-focus acrylic art strikes just the right balance between realism and wonder. This tender picture book captures both the material and the intangible elements of this special time of year.–Virginia Walter, UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies, CA

Gr 4 Up–This compendium of 24 fun and festive cakes will whet readers’ appetites for baking during the holiday season, but it’s more of a design manual than an actual cookbook (all the recipes use standard cake mix). Instructions include small pan-shaped diagrams describing how to cut and assemble the creations. Ranging from the very easy Santa’s Hat and Smiley Snowman to the more elaborate Toy Train and Gingerbread House, decorating tips outline how to use candy and various colors of frosting (two recipes included) for best results. Color photographs accompany each idea.–Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-K–This simple retelling of the Nativity story begins with Joseph arriving in a tiny town and, after knocking on doors, asking, “Have you heard? A baby! A baby is coming!” After Joseph and Mary are turned away many times, their donkey takes them to a stable filled with beasts that welcome the couple. The acrylic illustrations are mostly endearing but the page with the angels may remind some readers of the children in Disneyland’s “It’s a Small World” attraction. After the shepherds and Wise Men come to pay their respects and bring gifts, the book explains that every time a baby is born, stars and angels sing in their “satin” voices, “Have you heard?” A baby! Our baby is here!” An excess of cuteness adds little to the timeless story.–Diane Olivo-Posner, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 1-3–In this significantly shortened version of Baum’s 1902 tale, readers learn that Santa Claus, abandoned as a baby, was adopted and raised by a wood-nymph in the magical forest of Burzee. After he grows up and learns about the human world he came from, he decides to devote his life to helping children, and the rest is history. Baum’s original language, florid and wordy, has been pared down into a more readable and modern narrative. The large format, brimming with plenty of lush full- and double-page paintings depicting fairies, sprites, Knooks, and a very comely young Claus, will appeal to many children. The Land of Faerie plotline is a tad odd, but all the elements of Santa Claus’s story (the reindeer, the chimney-clambering) are reassuringly present.–Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 1–This update modifies the original book (Random, 1980) and adds a slightly more religious message. It is Christmas Eve and the Berenstain Bears need a tree. Of course, Papa makes a mess of things and learns that Christmas is “a time to be thinking of others–/to show love and respect to your sisters and brothers/And to treat them all/with kindness and concern.” The added references to Sunday school, Jesus, a Nativity scene, and God will not be noticed unless readers are doing a close textual analysis. The rhymes are slightly more awkward than usual, but the kids who love the Bears family’s solid traditional values won’t be too bothered by any changes. If your old copies are worn out, this will be a popular addition.–Anne Connor, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 2–Hoping to see the North Pole workshop, young Sam McGuffin stows away on Santa’s sleigh and is surprised to find himself on Santa’s tropical island vacation getaway where the reindeer enjoy spa treatments and the big man surfs. Sam has a great time playing with the elves and eating “Wish Dinner,” but soon it is time to fly home to enjoy Christmas with his family. A bland comic romp, this book has lively watercolors full of candy and Christmas imagery along with the message that Santa would like an occasional thank you. A light storytime diversion if needed.–Anne Connor, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 9 Up–High school senior Lila Beckwith has worked hard to be popular for three years. She has the coolest BFF, the most desirable boyfriend, and she’s planning the hot holiday party. So what if she had to give up comfortable clothing, singing, and her oddball boyfriend/former best friend, Beau? When her little brother (who still believes in Santa Claus) tattles to their parents about the proposed party, she retaliates by showing him an article about Santa being in danger because of melting polar ice caps. Eight-year-old Cooper and his friend Taylor get on a train heading north to try and save Santa, leaving Lila and Taylor’s older brother Beau to head off on a crazy road trip from LA to Seattle in pursuit. Some under-age drinking, a few innocent kisses, and massive evidence of conspicuous consumption occur. Clothing, electronics, and music are all up-to-the-minute, which gives this romantic comedy a rather short shelf life. In the end, it’s a little hard to believe that shallow Lila has truly changed her ways, but hey, it’s a holiday fantasy, and there will no doubt be an appreciative audience out there.–Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library

K-Gr 2–All of the forest animals are enthusiastically preparing for Christmas–except for Grumpy Badger, who is, of course, too sensible to enjoy such nonsense. After all, everyone knows that winter is a time for sleeping, which is exactly what he plans to do if everyone will stop knocking on his door and bothering him. Children will delight in Grumpy Badger’s eventual discovery of the joys of the season. There are plenty of fun sound effects and Scrooge-influenced outbursts (“Bah! Piffle!”). Chapman’s cheery acrylic paintings are perfectly suited to the text, providing adorably expressive creatures in a wintry yet cozy timberland.–Linda Israelson, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 2–This charming story plays with the conventions of familiar nursery tales. When a glass of milk, a cuddle, and his favorite story don’t help a little wolf fall asleep, he determines that what he needs is a teddy bear. Unfortunately his mother doesn’t know where to get one and serenely sends him off with a picnic lunch to find out. He asks Wise Owl, who sends him off to ask the Three (not-so-little) Pigs and Little Red Riding Hood. After dealing with their issues about Big Bad Wolves, the little wolf is on his way to Goldilocks, hoping she will know the answer when he bumps into a chubby old man with a flat tire. So he HUFFS and he PUFFS and fixes the tire. As a thank you, the bearded man promises him an answer to his question in the morning–and a teddy bear is delivered. With its lively, bold watercolors filled with humorous details, this tale is likely to be a storytime hit well beyond the Christmas season.–Anne Connor, Los Angeles Public Library

K-Gr 4–This retelling includes the full narrative of the classic E. T. A. Hoffmann text without all of the old-fashioned turns of phrase, making it a good choice for an extended read-aloud. The luminous, rather stylized acrylic illustrations depict a contemporary Marie who moves from the realistic setting of her home to the dream and fantasy worlds of the Nutcracker. A worthy purchase where yet another illustrated version of the story is needed.–Virginia Walter, UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies, CA

PreS-Gr 2–This book features 12 verses, written from the varying points of view of Mary, Joseph, the donkey, the innkeeper, a shepherd, the three wise men, the angel, the star, the lamb, and the Christ Child. Rhyming text for each prayer is inserted in an enclosed box on beautifully illustrated spreads. Each narrator takes his or her turn in order, with Mary coming first (“My heart’s filled with peace./I know there’s a plan./We’ll find our way home/as soon as we can”) and the baby Jesus last (“I was born in a stable,/in a simple abode,/without a gold crown/nor rich, royal robe”). The painterly double-page illustrations make good use of light and shadow and effectively convey the warm and soothing tone of the text. Appropriate for specialized religious collections, this is an additional purchase for public libraries.–Diane Olivo-Posner, Los Angeles Public Library

K-Gr 4–This spin-off on the classic story is based on a musical play that is being staged in Chicago during the 2009 holiday season. The focus here is on Fritz, who accidentally releases the evil Mouse King from the video game where he had been trapped. With the help of the Nutcracker, a girl named Marie, he travels to Christmas Wood, a magical place where toys are readied for Christmas giving, and sends the Mouse King back to the video game where he belongs. An accompanying CD includes a track of the author reading the story to a musical background and five songs from the musical. Busy, heavily stylized acrylic, oil, and colored-pencil cartoons are appropriate to the text. This nutty tale may be delightful on stage, but it falls flat as a picture book.–Virginia Walter, UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies, CA

PreS-Gr 3–Like the first three titles in this series, this holiday version features nonstop action as Santa goes from one comic mishap to another. Although the formula no longer feels fresh, kids will enjoy chanting “Oh, that’s good! No, that’s bad!” The real strength of this book is in the expressive, humorous illustrations with their dynamic composition and perspective. They capture the excitement of Christmas and should carry well at storytime.–Maureen Wade, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 3 Up–Dickens’s cautionary tale of an embittered, stingy old man learning to be a happier, more giving person thanks to the intervention of four ghosts has long been fodder for holiday collections. From its stark opening spread (“MARLEY WAS DEAD”) to the final one with its much more cheerful winter scene, this year’s version, illustrated in Helquist’s darkly comic style, is one of the best. Some of that credit must go to Greenhut, who provided the abridgment. Sacrificing none of Dickens’s rich language, this retelling reads beautifully. The artist uses watercolor, pencil, and pastel to create cinematic artwork that contains amusing details; additionally, there are a number of pen-and-ink vignettes that help set the scenes. A winning combination of sparkling prose and exciting art.–Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 1–Stick Man is happy with his Stick Lady Love and their stick children three–until a dog finds him and snatches him for a game of fetch. This is the beginning of a terrible journey during which, Odysseus-like, Stick Man tries to get back but is taken farther and farther away from his home as he is used over the months for everything from a boomerang to a snowman’s arm. Readers will feel his anguish and cheer his eventual return (by Santa Claus no less, who rescues him from a fireplace on Christmas Eve) to his loving family. Bouncy, repetitive rhymes make this a good choice for storytime, and the saturated color illustrations carry well (although Stick Man does tend to blend, chameleonlike, into his surroundings). A slightly surreal holiday choice.–Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS–On a winter’s night, Mother Cat and Little Kitten wonder at all the visitors–a donkey, a lamb, three mice, a calf–who stop by their barn to rest as they follow a bright star. Curious, the cats follow the animals to a stable, where they find “a very special baby.” Although neither the holiday nor the baby is named, most children will recognize the context. There is nothing new or noteworthy in this simple Nativity story, but the glowing, soft-focus photo-realistic illustrations of adorable barnyard animals will appeal to young children.–Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS–A family of happy floppy rabbits enjoys Hanukkah by lighting candles, eating latkes, and playing dreidel. But first Violet and Simon have to learn the right way to celebrate: waiting until sundown to light the menorah and letting the candles burn all the way down. The real charm of this simple book is the joyful excitement of the children, whose preschool expressiveness rings true (“I want Hanukkah now!). Colorful watercolor and pencil illustrations depict the anthropomorphized animals as friendly and fuzzy as beloved stuffed animals.–Teri Markson, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 1–This book pares down the story of the Nativity to its essential elements. Complementing the small illustrations on the plot pages are full-page pictures that invite youngsters to join in with various sounds, including those of the animals (“eeYAW”), an angel (“la la la”), and a star (“twinkle twinkle”). A flap reveals the baby Jesus in his manger. Henley’s bright, colorful paintings are full of texture and energy, with just enough realism to keep them from being cartoons. A sweet, simple introduction to the religious origin of Christmas.–Linda Israelson, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 2-5–Grimes presents 14 poems, each preceded by a Bible verse, telling the story of the Nativity through the voices of Mary, Joseph, the Wise Men, the innkeeper, Herod, and so on. The poems, mostly unrhymed free verse, use simple language and a rolling rhythm that makes them a pleasure to read aloud. Gaspar, one of the Wise Men, begins his verse with “All those years of poring over/charts and scrolls on astronomy,/then suddenly, it was as if/the Morning Star/leapt from the page/and rose into the sky.” The realistic paintings, rendered in muted nighttime shades of blue, gray, brown, and yellow, depict intense people in the midst of a momentous event, their glowing faces bowed in reverence or raised to the heavens. This lovely and heartfelt book adds a deeper perspective to the oft-told story and will enhance most holiday collections.–Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 3-5–When a genie named Bob pops out of a meteorite after crashing through the window of Mrs. Walters’s fifth-grade classroom, he grants the students a collective wish as reward for his release. There’s just one hitch–they have only an hour to decide what that wish will be (Bob is cranky after being cooped up for thirteen million light years). What follows is a lively, thought-provoking, and hilarious discussion of the merits and drawbacks of each of their wishes as they attempt to arrive at a decision democratically. Snarky Bob interrupts their provocative and often-heated banter with audacious quips, including digs at Santa Claus, with whom he allegedly grew up. Gutman packs plenty of history, science, and ethics lessons in this fun, well-paced fantasy that happens to take place at Christmas, but will be enjoyed at any time of year. This book is laugh-out-loud funny from page one.–Linda Israelson, Los Angeles Public Library

K-Gr 3–In Hodges’s retelling of Ruth Sawyer’s “The Christmas Cabin of Carn-na-ween,” a poor tinker’s daughter, Oona Hegarty, spends a lifetime selflessly helping families in need. In the midst of a bleak Christmas Eve during the Great Potato Famine, she lays down under a blackthorn bush with no place to call her own. The fairies, having witnessed her good deeds over the years, decide to honor the old woman by building her a cabin full of food and warmth. From then on, on every white Christmas, her home becomes a refuge for “old ones not needed any longer by others, children crying for their mothers, and lads and lasses in trouble.” Root’s watercolor illustrations so effectively capture the gloomy Irish winter that one can almost feel the cold seeping through the pages. Told with less of a brogue than the original, but retaining all the same major elements, this update of a classic is a highly accessible version for today’s young readers.-Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

K-Gr 4–This lavishly illustrated book features sweeping, theatrical watercolor spreads and elaborate borders that help to draw connections between the real-life action, Marie’s dream, and the ballet itself. A brief introduction gives the background of the story’s publication and its connection to the Tchaikovsky ballet. In comparison to the polished and stylish Nutcracker retold by John Cech (HarperBlessings, 2009), this lengthy version features more dialogue–occasionally stilted–and busier, larger illustrations.–Virginia Walter, UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies, CA

PreS–Suzy the goose and her farm animal friends have decorated a Christmas tree in the barnyard. All it needs is a star on top, and Suzy sees a perfect one up in the sky. She can not reach it no matter how high she jumps, and when she tries to walk to it, she gets lost in the snow. Luckily, with the help of her friends, she finds her way home. Meanwhile the star has magically moved to the top of the tree. Despite the lack of plot, young children will giggle at Suzy’s silliness and rejoice when she is reunited with her pals. The full-spread mixed-media illustrations depicting a textured snowy landscape against a starry night sky contrast with the friendly and determined figure of Suzy, with her orange beak glowing and her tiny eyes on the prize. Quiet and sweet–a fine choice for both storytime and family sharing.–Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 3-5–Each Christmas season, while the Fergusons sleep, the ornaments on their tree magically come to life. When Larry the snowman discovers that his brother Terrence didn’t arrive on the tree this year, he and his fellow ornaments set out to find him. However, leaving the tree is against the laws of the Elders and puts the search team in danger of facing the wrath of Tree-Lord, an immobile, pinecone-shaped light. Their journey is beset by dangers and infighting, but they persevere, eventually discovering Tree-Lord’s dastardly secret and battling his squadron of Army-Lights. Illustrations enliven the characters, but the writing lacks polish. There is far too much exposition of things that readers should be able to infer from the action. Awkward and incomplete sentences, unorthodox use of language (“freaked” as a verb in lieu of shouted), and poor pacing detract from what might have been a good story.–Linda Israelson, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 1–A rhyming text describes how animals, from Rooster to Goat to Cat and more, all come to the barn and greet the Little Stranger in the manger. “The Sheep flocked in to see this baby/in his bed of straw,/and spying the Wee Shepherd/gave a wild and wooly “BAAA!” The energetic, stylized illustrations, with their saturated colors and rounded shapes, are reminiscent of Disney cartoons. The text goes on a bit too long and is merely adequate. This effort adds nothing new to an oft-told tale.–Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 2–It’s almost Christmas and there’s no snow in sight, so young Fawn Braun exhorts the citizens of Pfeffernut County to make their own. Despite the failure of sugar, popcorn, cotton balls, and mini marshmallows to replicate the real thing, Christmas comes anyway and is the merriest one ever. The story is straightforward, with a teacherly list of five “follow-up” questions and some “fun snow facts.” The digital illustrations feature slightly surreal-looking townspeople sporting red Christmas sweaters. The endpapers consist of scrapbooklike newspaper clippings, photos, and other realia about the town. Most libraries can skip this one.–Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

K-Gr 4–Originally published in 1991, this quiet story has been heavily edited and revamped for reading aloud. As a star shines down on Bethlehem, a voice on the wind speaks to three shepherds who differ from one another physically and ideologically. They are beckoned forth to meet a “babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger” and they all come away with a different story of their journey to meet the Christ child. Using scripture from the Book of Luke in the King James Version of the Bible, this book stresses peace among men and setting aside differences, especially at Christmas. The soft acrylic illustrations are improved (brightened and framed) and in some cases changed altogether from the original. Because of its small size, the book is best used in small groups or shared one-on-one.–Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

K-Gr 3–Coyote is expecting Beaver, Bear, Otter, and Moose for a solstice dinner at his small house in the woods but a little girl in a reindeer costume shows up first. When the friends follow her tracks to discover where she came from, they discover a huge and frenzied mall just beyond the woods, where Coyote goes wild shopping until he discovers that he has to pay for the stuff. The humor is dry and affectionate, the rhyming text delights with sly turns of phrase, the watercolor cartoons are whimsical, and the small size of the book (a bit bigger than a DVD case) adds to the charm. This holiday treat will leave readers with no doubt that an evening spent at home with your buds is priceless.–Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 3–After Jim and his mother bake pirate gingerbread men for Santa’s snack, toothpick-legged Captain Cookie undertakes a daring rescue of his crew from the hungry–but understanding–Santa Claus, who works a magical transformation. When Jim awakes Christmas morning, he finds under the Christmas tree not only a magnificent toy pirate ship, but also a peg-legged captain and crew onboard. An exciting story and full-page, dramatically composed paintings depicting harrowing adventures with a mouse, a cat, and the crew imprisoned in a cookie jar make this a good holiday read-aloud.–Maureen Wade, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 1–“’Twas the night before Christmas in dinosaur land./Tyrannoclaus hurried, his helpers at hand” begins this entertaining twist on “The Night Before Christmas.” At the North Pole, a sleeping volcano erupts, spewing fiery ash and lava as Tyrannoclaus and his team are trying to take flight. Undeterred, these dynamic dinos “plunge through the fire, the smoke and the steam” to deliver their Christmas gifts to all the dinosaur boys and girls. Shroades’s dynamic mixed-media digitalized cartoons enhance the text. Dino enthusiasts will delight in this unique holiday treat.–Maureen Wade, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 2-4–Introductory pages describe the origins of the holiday, while subsequent short chapters depict traditions in various Jewish communities through fictional stories, brief historical sidebars, and recipes. Represented countries include Israel, the United States, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Italy, Australia, Poland, and Tunisia. While children will be interested to see how Jews in various parts of the world celebrate differently while maintaining the core Hanukkah traditions, there is a formulaic quality to this book that undermines its success. The fictional stories feel contrived and in more than one case raise questions that are left unanswered, e.g., why do Jews in Australia celebrate Hanukkah during the summer? What happens at the end of the story of Judith? In addition, several of the recipes are presented without any explanation of their origin or relation to the holiday. Densely colored illustrations are generally appealing, particularly the attractive full-page maps that accompany each section. Even so, the unevenness of this offering makes it merely additional.–Teri Markson, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 1–The little red elf has a bunch of lazy housemates–a reindeer, a penguin, and a hare–who won’t help out in the toy workshop or assist her in planting and caring for a little pine tree. When the tree is grown, she digs it up, decorates it, and bakes cookies. The next morning, she asks, “Who will help me open the presents?” Only then do the housemates volunteer. In a sly wink from Santa, the presents turn out to be toy Little Red Hens. This sweet version is simply told but includes plenty of funny asides (“Well, I love being busy!” the little red elf exclaims after yet another failed attempt to get help). The acrylic and ballpoint-pen illustrations are full of childlike humor, depicting cute North Pole characters who look like toys themselves. This is that rare beast–an endearing holiday book without a hint of treacle.–Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 2–These offerings attempt to combine basic counting books with introductions to the holidays. However, there is too much information for children just learning to count to 10, and the books are a bit too childish for readers old enough to appreciate the amount of detail included. Well-chosen, colorful photographs feature the numbered items. In Christmas, readers learn that ONE candle is often lit on Christmas Eve to represent the star followed by the Wise Men; in Kwanzaa, THREE is the number of colors–black, red, and green–that represent the holiday.–Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 2-4–Lily and her younger brother go to their grandparents’ farm for Christmas, as always. This year something is different; White Cow is the only animal in the field. Liam, certain that she is lonely, sacrifices his beloved books to buy her a calf companion, and Lily overcomes her fear of the large animal. The simple, elegant prose tells a warm family story with a classic holiday theme. Floca’s graphite and ebony pencil drawings are lush with evocative detail and perfectly complement this lovely offering.–Virginia Walter, UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies, CA

PreS–These attractive board books feature simple, clear concepts and delightful pencil-and-watercolor illustrations enhanced with patterned fabric swatches. Christmas demonstrates the connection between what children might see in nature and ornaments that decorate a Christmas tree such as birds, snowflakes, and stars. Hanukkah celebrates familiar aspects of the holiday such as candle lighting and playing dreidel. In both books, it is the clever illustrations with their sunny colors, charming compositions, and multicultural casts of characters that really shine, making these titles satisfying choices.–Teri Markson, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 1-3–Santa’s Christmas Eve journey takes him to Africa in this charming version of the poem. Isadora uses collaged papers and oil paints to create a vibrant African village, dusted by snow. The tiny house barely supports the sleigh, and Santa (with zebra fur on his jacket, leopard-spotted pants, and a vibrant Kente-cloth belt) comes down the wood stove’s chimney, leaving traditional African presents for the slumbering children. Full of details, rich color, and an exuberant spirit, this book will provide opportunities for discussion as well as a new cultural landscape for the “right jolly old elf.”–Anne Connor, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 2–A series of greeting-card-type paintings fails to coalesce as a new or unique addition to the many versions of the classic poem already available. The layout is static and somewhat confusing with a variety of unrelated cameo images appearing in the text boxes. The full-page images of Santa seem suitable for framing, but not really much else.–Anne Connor, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 2–In this Latino twist on the traditional folk song, the narrator’s secret amiga’s gifts include “a piñata in a pine tree” and “cuatro luminarias.” The identity of the girl’s amiga is a sweet surprise and is sure to bring a smile to readers. The spreads are pleasing to the eye, with acrylic paintings rendered in vivid oranges, pinks, greens, and sky blue. A description of Christmas foods and other holiday traditions from different Latin American countries are included in the author’s note, which also gives information on the history of the 12 days (beginning Christmas Day and ending January 5, Twelfth Night, the night before Epiphany, or Feast of the Three Kings). The last page includes the score.–Diane Olivo-Posner, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 1–After their forest home is destroyed by woodcutters, a group of elves looks for a new place to live. The wee folk wander far until they are forced to seek shelter on a small farm belonging to Santa Claus and his wife. After Santa helps them build a small village on his property, the elves in turn help the exhausted man make toys for Christmas–and the rest is history. The story is not very original or suspenseful but it does answer the intriguing question of where Santa’s elves came from, and the illustrations, depicting elves looking like slightly small-scale humans with red caps and neat beards, are warm and appealing.–Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 4-6–Santa doesn’t count on just the help of elves and reindeer. Apparently, seals also play an important role in making sure that gifts get distributed around the world. Only this year, the evil Dr. Gloomsday has kidnapped two of Santa’s Seals and wants them to lead him to the Christmas Caves and steal the treasure that Santa stores there. Fortunately, eight-year-old Ryder Matthews is around, doing good deeds, reminding grown-ups of what it’s like to be a kid, scuba diving, and more. He manages to solve his uncle’s writer’s block, rescues the bad little children who got turned into Coal Monsters, and, of course, saves Christmas. Too bad he sounds like a grandpa. Supporting characters, human and otherwise, are one-dimensional, and while there are some clever ideas that might appeal to kids, the writing is pedestrian and Taylor’s illustrations are unattractive at best.–Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 1-3–Though presented as a Christmas book, this informative introduction to the different animals inhabiting a Maine tree plantation can be enjoyed year round. For every month of the year, the title question is asked and answered in a couple of simple explanatory paragraphs by the various insects, birds, mammals, and even flowers that benefit from the trees. The charming watercolor and ink illustrations are rendered in naturalistic fashion using nature’s hues and cross-hatching techniques for shading and depth. Of course, in December, it is a family of humans who would like a Christmas tree. They are shown in the final tableau putting the finishing touches on their decorating and enjoying seasonal refreshments, with their pets and some visiting animals nearby. In a concluding spread, the farmer details the month-by-month care of the trees. An excellent resource for getting youngsters enthused about nature.–Linda Israelson, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 2–Two-page chapters composed of three or four sentences make this holiday book appropriate for beginning readers, but the text is really just a bland list of facts with generic photographs arranged by confusing chapter titles that fall short of providing adequate explanations. For instance, “Down the Chimney” is about Santa. It reads: “Christmas is a time for sharing. People send each other cards and exchange gifts. Children wait for Santa Claus to bring them presents.” There is not much here that readers do not already know or have not seen before.–Joanna K. Fabicon, Los Angeles Public Library

K-Gr 4–Can you really have your cake and eat it, too? Sophie Kringle’s Auntie Claus (Santa’s sister) certainly thinks so. When Sophie has the opportunity to play the Sugar Plum Fairy in her school’s presentation of The Nutcracker, she is thrilled, but also sad, because her favorite aunt will be away on her annual “business trip.” Not true, insists Auntie Claus. They’ll just move the North Pole to New York City. It sounds like a good idea, but of course chaos ensues. Ghosts (Christmas Past, Present, and Future), elves, reindeer, and the real Sugar Plum Fairy descend upon the Bing Cherry Hotel, and the city is covered with snow and ice. As always, Primavera’s exuberant and stylized acrylic paintings fill each page with color and excitement, and interesting details reward careful viewers. Fans of the first two Auntie Claus stories will not be disappointed.–Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library

K-Gr 2–When Bella’s nan says she’s too old to go out and cut down a Christmas tree, Bella volunteers to do it. The problem is, she keeps bringing home the wrong kind–first an alder bush, then a spruce, then a pine, until finally she brings home a perfect fir tree and straightens out Nan’s “crookedness” (orneriness). The text is rather long and filled with eccentric turns of phrase (“A smile smeared Bella’s face.”), and it’s inexplicable why Nan is so crabby to helpful Bella. However, the full-page, almost-impressionistic oil pastel illustrations are evocative, whether depicting a warm cabin interior or the snowy woods.–Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 1-4–In this installment in a best-selling chapter-book series from the U.K., self-centered Horrid Henry wreaks total havoc at the Nativity play, destroys the Christmas tree, and almost ruins the holiday lunch. His irreverent actions are made tolerable through the ridiculousness of the incidents and the appeal to the naughty side in readers’ personalities. Ross’s mischievous black-and-white cartoon drawings are the perfect choice to carry them off. Large print and simple vocabulary make this title an easy read and a fun read-aloud. Booktalk it with Barbara Robinson’s The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (HarperCollins, 1972). –Maureen Wade, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 4–This holiday favorite is brought to life through Spirin’s gorgeous illustrations. The last pages include the score as well as a note about the song’s historical origins. Oval paintings act as windows containing the art, while text on the opposite page is framed by an ornamental garland from a pear tree. The elaborately detailed and exquisitely executed artwork, rendered in watercolor and colored pencil, has a Renaissance feel. Roman numerals are placed on the tree or the base of the tree planter to indicate which day is being celebrated. As the oval inset fills with calling birds, golden rings, swans-a-swimming, etc., readers will enjoy trying to count all the gifts. A must-have.–Diane Olivo-Posner, Los Angeles Public Library

K-Gr 4–This intimate look at Santa’s preparations for the big day starts with a tingling in his whiskers, which means that Christmas magic will soon arrive. Readers see the white-haired gent taking care of all the mundane chores: grooming the reindeer, darning his warm socks, shining the sleigh, and selecting and packing the gifts. When all is ready, the magic comes and Santa flies off to share it with the world. Muth’s haunting watercolor and pastel illustrations bring the simple story to magical life. Santa’s bunny slippers are a particularly charming touch. Best for one-on-one or small-group sharing, this gentle and lovely book is sheer enchantment.–Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library

K-Gr 4–“I had just nodded off,/at a quarter past four,/when the Spirit of Christmas/stepped in through my door.” So begins this lovely story in which all the delights of the season are presented. Realism and fantasy are satisfyingly paired to bring the mixed-media illustrations of treasured holiday scenes to life. Many of the paintings include bits of lyrics and music from well-known carols. The message is sweet; no matter how fancy one’s decorations, no matter how elaborate one’s feast, or how many pretty packages wait beneath the tree, “It is love that makes the angels sing.” A beautiful and timeless book.–Linda Israelson, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 3–While this book serves as an easy introduction to the holiday, it fails to convey a celebratory tone. The Swahili words that comprise the seven guiding principles of Kwanzaa are defined on each spread, but the pronunciation guide appears in an author’s note at the back. The boldly colored illustrations showing various people and activities don’t always match the text. For example, “Beating drums and singing voices,/ we perform for KUUMBA” shows a lone figure quietly painting. Likewise, ceremonial candles are mentioned on each page but not shown until the end. In a note, Tokunbo describes a karamu or traditional feast on the last day of Kwanzaa and includes a recipe for No-Cook Brownie Bites made from dates. An uneven offering that falls rather flat.–Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

K-Gr 3–In this riff on the classic Christmas chestnut (“’Twas the week before Christmas”), those eight wacky reindeer (no Rudolph in this outing) have decided to go on strike. Santa has no choice but to hold auditions for new sleigh-pulling critters (it never occurs to him to ask about the reindeers’ grievances). Dogs and cats are too easily distracted, flamingos are too wobbly, elephants are too heavy, and evidently kangaroos are too… um, acquisitive. Fortunately, the reindeer return to save the day, armed with their list of demands: whirlpool and sauna, real beds, and cable. Santa agrees and Christmas is saved. Colorful digitally created cartoons include fun details. Ho-ho-hum silliness.–Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 3-6–This revision of a 2004 title includes 16 recipes from around the world paired with mouthwatering photos that will inspire budding cooks. Provided, that is, that they do not ask questions like, “Why is this Christmas food?” Some of the items include stollen from Austria, mince pies from England, shrimp snacks from the Philippines, and savory rice from Brazil. Also puzzling are the missing recipes for the tarts pictured on the front cover and the one for candied sweet potatoes promised on the back. Despite the brief explanation about Christmas and its food traditions, the book’s primary focus is on cooking rather than instructing about the holiday, which in the end should bode well for adventurous young chefs and their families.–Joanna K. Fabicon, Los Angeles Public Library

PreS-Gr 1–A zebra named Ollie runs down some of his favorite holiday activities. Sweet, soft watercolors show Ollie and his dog decorating the Christmas tree, baking holiday treats with Nanna, and waiting for Santa, creating a cozy, merry accompaniment to the simple rhyming text. This is a great choice for a lap-sit and also as a read-alone for beginning readers.–Maureen Wade, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 1-3–Seven-year-old Melinda is the lucky child who gets an audience with Santa on Christmas Eve. After asking all the logistical questions like how he gets down chimneys and how reindeer fly, she brings out the heavy hitter, “Who is the real God?” Santa asks her about her father’s collection of figurines displayed around the house and Melinda figures out that just as there are multiple versions of Santa from various cultures and countries, so it is with God. Unfortunately, the simple colored-pencil illustrations are amateurish and only add to the saccharine quality of the book.–Joanna K. Fabicon, Los Angeles Public Library

Gr 1-3–Every Christmas Eve, Owen builds a snowman that melts on Christmas Day. This year, after he goes to bed, he and his snowman are transported by a space vessel to a factory where talking animals remake the snowman in a perfect frozen environment. When Owen is asked to put a snowball heart in its chest, this snowman melts too. The animals then discover that “When a boy makes a snowman, he gives it a heart, it gets so warm inside, the snowman can’t last.” The animals and Owen realize that the only place a snowman would last forever is in a boy’s heart. Yelchin’s imaginative, dreamlike, and somewhat surreal paintings cannot save this lengthy, ambiguous tale with a contrived message. There is no clear transition in the illustrations or text from reality to the fantasy and back, causing confusion. The intended audience is also unclear, because the basic idea of the story seems to be for very young children, but too much of it is implied rather than explained, and will only be understandable to older children or adults.–Maureen Wade, Los Angeles Public Library