This joint effort by two sisters weaves the joy of making and giving gifts with the value of receiving them gracefully and gratefully. Little Rabbit is a child with a distinct artistic flair, as evidenced by his paintings and art projects displayed throughout his cozy, modern home. With Little Rabbit’s designs and Mother Rabbit’s knitting skills, the two collaborate on customized hats for their friends as Christmas gifts, but their six friends receive the unusual hats with less than enthusiasm. When a blizzard sweeps in, however, the animal friends realize how much they appreciate their warm hats and the kindness of their rabbit friends, and they follow the rabbits through the snow to offer their sincere thanks. The story is humorous in an understated way, as are the illustrations of the long-eared rabbit pair and their skeptical friends with droll expressions. Sarah Klise incorporates clever, whimsical details into her paintings, as well as striking contrasts between the dimly-lit interior of the rabbit house at night and the snow scenes, which glow with pale-blue light and swirling snowflakes. (Picture book. 3-7)
