Countdown to Christmas: 24 Magical Advent Stories

Gr 1-3–This volume presents a new literary work each day, from poems and songs, to retellings of classic stories and fairy tales, to nonfiction selections. The offerings present a significant variation in length, topic, depth, and text complexity from day to day. While the underlying Christmas theme ties the collection together, interest levels may fluctuate as readers move from familiar songs like “The 12 Days of Christmas” to more in-depth nonfiction pieces and fairy tale retellings. This variation provides diverse reading experiences but may present challenges for consistent engagement across all selections for every child. Pencil and digital color illustrations wonderfully complement each story. Hartas’s character-driven style particularly shines through detailed linework and texture that gives the work a nostalgic, classically festive feel. The illustrations maintain visual cohesion throughout the diverse literary selections.