CHRISTMAS AT THE TOY MUSEUM

A collection of stuffed animals and dolls celebrate Christmas together in a touching way, by wrapping themselves up as presents so that each toy will have a present to open on Christmas morning.

This simple but original story, first published in England, presents a collection of antique toys at a museum. The toys are introduced by name on the front endpapers with such charmingly old-fashioned (and very British) names as Banger the Boxer Dog, Winkie the One-Eyed Bear and Wee Scottie the Windup Dog. When Bunting, a stuffed cat, is left without a package, the angel at the top of their Christmas tree flies down to give him a special gift, a tiny golden package with a magical wish inside. The appearance of the angel changes the tone of the story, as the angel changes in color from pale lavender to radiant gold, with swirling rays of light surrounding her. In a satisfying conclusion, Bunting uses his wish to ensure that the spirit of Christmas will never end. A large format and stylish illustrations in watercolor and ink add to the book’s appeal, with clever touches in both text and illustrations that will beguile both children and adults.

A charming tale that adults won’t mind reading over and over. (Picture book. 3-6)