CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 14, 2011
"The cumulative effect of text and illustrations has a sad rather than celebratory feeling, unusual in a Christmas-themed story and therefore refreshing in a usually relentlessly cheery season. (author's note) (Picture book/religion. 6-9)"
Newbery Medalist Park offers a Christmas story explaining how myrrh is harvested and how it came to be one of the gifts carried to the Christ Child by the three Wise Men.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 2, 2011
"The downcast faces of the people and angels and the old-fashioned language of the traditional text serve to distance readers. The "good tidings of great joy" are missing from this otherwise visually stunning work. (Picture book/religion. 4-8)"
The Nativity story from the King James Bible serves as the text for this engaging interpretation done in exquisite cut-paper–and-watercolor illustrations that stand out against dramatic, black backgrounds.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 1, 2011
"The Nutcracker by Susan Jeffers (2007) remains the quintessential interpretation, but there is room on the Christmas bookshelves for the Engelbreit version as well. (Picture book. 4-7) "
Engelbreit extends her collection of traditional children's stories with this retelling of the Christmas classic, which blends well with the artist's signature style of highly ornamented illustrations bursting with bows, candies and fantasy flowers.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 1, 2011
"A cozy Christmas present for Brett's devoted fans. (author's note) (Picture book. 3-7)"
The snowy Scandinavian setting used in Brett's previous stories about trolls is again the backdrop for this latest Christmas offering from the beloved and prolific illustrator.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 1, 2011
"Some joyless adults will object to the "stinky baby" theme, but lots of kids will find the mischievous mayhem a refreshing alternative to sticky-sweet holiday stories. (Picture book. 3-6)"
Six-year-old Joy has a less-than-joyful attitude at Christmas due to her boisterous baby brother, Sam.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 1, 2011
"The length of this story makes it most suitable for elementary-age children, but teens and adults will also appreciate this moving tale of a Wise Man with a special gift. (author's note) (Picture book/religion. 6 & up)"
This lyrically told story of an unknown Wise Man with a different sort of gift is based on Henry Van Dyke's Victorian-era tale, "The Story of the Other Wise Man."
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 25, 2011
"This one has it all: engaging illustrations, a simple but satisfying plot and a text that adults won't mind reading over and over. (Picture book. 3-6)"
This deliciously clever bedtime story offers bouncy rhymes with rich vocabulary, a cast of appealing parent-child pairs and a satisfying ending as Santa takes off with his sleigh and his traditional "to all a good night!"
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 25, 2011
"Even with attractive illustrations and a Christmas setting, a plodding story doesn't create any magic. (Picture book. 4-7)"
The prolific mystery writer turns her hand to children's Christmas stories with a sentimental tale of a beloved family heirloom that is restored just in time for reappearance under the Christmas tree.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 25, 2011
"The author's point may be that any joyous celebration with a happy family is a perfect Christmas, but this class-based comparison doesn't seem to be the aptest focus for a children's holiday story. (Picture book. 4-7)"
Spinelli and Adinolfi team up again for a look at another perfect holiday celebration, following the same families chronicled in their collaboration on The Perfect Thanksgiving (2003).
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 18, 2011
"The tale of Pyn and her father has psychological ties to the story of Heidi and her grandfather, with a similar theme of the love of a little girl cracking open a crusty heart. (Picture book. 4-8) "
Little Pyn lives in a cottage on top of a mountain with her cranky giant of a father, who doesn't want to celebrate Christmas--or raise a daughter by himself, either.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 18, 2011
"The information conveyed about the feast days is interesting, but Strega Nona and Big Anthony aren't at their top form in this effort, with little of the rich magical humor they are known for. (author's note) (Picture book/religion. 4-7)"
DePaola's latest holiday contribution describes the eight traditional feast days of the Christmas season in Calabria, home of the consummate cook, Strega Nona, and her ever-hungry sidekick, Big Anthony.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 13, 2011
"A fresh take on the Nativity story is a tall order, but this beautifully realized offering sounds like a winner, in every way. (Picture book/religion. 4-8)"
Mackall cleverly turns the idea of a silent Christmas Eve night upside down with this poetic view of the first Christmas, focusing on the sounds made by each participant in the Nativity story.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 13, 2011
"To see what really can be done with the song, read Jane Ray's exquisite version (2011). (artist's note, musical notation) (Picture book. 5-7)"
Ornate illustrations in a lush, romantic style follow the traditional wording of the old song, with all the accumulating gifts hidden within each succeeding illustration.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 13, 2011
"Grace learns some subtle lessons about sharing and being open to unexpected gifts, adding an additional layer of meaning to her name. (Picture book. 4-8)"
Many faith traditions and cultures advocate welcoming the stranger to the table of fellowship, and Grace learns this lesson firsthand when her family hosts a mother-daughter pair for Christmas.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 11, 2011
"Young fans of historical fiction series will enjoy this, as will anyone who enjoys a funny family story about Christmas preparations. (Picture book. 4-9)"
When Pa brings home a turkey poult to raise for Christmas dinner, hilarious complications ensue in this heartwarming family story set in 19th-century New York City.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 11, 2011
"A witty and original take on the old Christmas Eve chestnut, with a sweet twist to season the fun. (Picture book. 3-8)"
Bruel continues the hilarious adventures of Bad Kitty with a "Night Before Christmas" theme in this latest entry in his successful series about the alphabet-obsessed pet.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 4, 2011
"An unsuccessful blending of the holiday's history and rituals with a boogie-woogie theme leaves this Hanukkah addition on the sidelines. (glossary) (Picture book. 4-7)"
The arrival of some special guests transforms the traditional family Hanukkah gathering into a dance fest that has everyone moving to the rhythm of a bopping, hopping beat.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 4, 2011
"This unforgettable interpretation stands out as a bright, multifaceted star in the crowded constellation of Christmas Eve stories. (Picture book/religion. 4-8)"
This arresting story of the first Christmas has a succinct, powerful, rhyming text and striking illustrations unlike any other version of the Nativity story, with art and words perfectly matched in an artistic tour de force.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 4, 2011
"Younger children who are not ready for all the information in the letters will enjoy just singing along with the clever parody, while older kids will appreciate Max's witty writing style. (Picture book. 3-9)"
This geographically based series with a "Twelve Days of Christmas" structure continues with the latest entry set in Washington State.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 4, 2011
"This is more fun than a barrel of monkeys. (Picture book. 4-9)"
With a tip of the stocking cap to Amelia Bedelia, Bloch offers a charming Christmas story interwoven with common expressions that can be interpreted in more than one way, illustrated in a refreshing collage style that combines pen-and-ink drawings and photographs.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011
"Though the text is a little wordy, the appealing illustrations, simple plot and warm, family-centered emotional tone make this a suitable though not essential choice for holiday story time. (Picture book. 3-5)"
A pair of mouse siblings, Pip and Squeak, work together to build a snowman in this sweet but slight holiday offering, first published in Switzerland.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011
"This could be enjoyed just for the cheerful illustrations, but most little ones won't be interested in the mundane story. (Picture book. 1-4)"
The latest entry in a Dutch series about a toddler named Kevin follows the little one as he gets ready for Christmas with his family.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011
"The author's artistic license creates a modern fable with a pleasant provenance for the song, but it's not clear enough that this is fiction. (Picture book. 6-9)"
Harris offers a fictionalized interpretation of the circumstances surrounding the beloved carol's composition in Savannah, Ga., in the era just before the Civil War.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011
"This endearing bunny deserves a better tale. (Picture book. 3-5)"
Ricky is a cheerful young rabbit preparing for the Christmas holiday celebration in this sixth entry in a series originating in Holland and Belgium.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011
"Talking Christmas trees really aren't a good idea for a children's book. (Picture book. 4-7)"
This tale is narrated by an anthropomorphic, talking Christmas tree that describes its life cycle from seedling through a Christmas season as a decorated tree and then on to full growth as a tall evergreen.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011
"A terrific introduction for preschoolers who are just learning about the Nativity story. (Picture book/religion. 2-5)"
A preschool-age boy plays with his Nativity crèche figures on the cover of this quietly charming bedtime story that integrates the little boy's world with the Christmas Eve story of the birth of the Christ Child.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011
Eubie is a relentlessly cheery elf whose story is based on a Christmas song by Connick, which was also previously made into an animated movie.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011
"Bastin's greeting cards are popular worldwide, so her adult fans may enjoy incorporating Vera and friends into their holiday reading and decorating, but children may find this book leads to a long winter's nap. (Picture book. 4-7)"
Bastin employs a collection of anthropomorphized animals as characters for this holiday story interspersed with simple craft and decorating ideas.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011
"Kimmel's storytelling is effective in its use of suspense, humor, trope and repetition, making a fine read-aloud holiday treat. (author's note) (Picture book. 5-8)"
The renowned Rabbi Judah Loew of Prague and his mythical golem appear in this Hanukkah fairy tale inspired by
The Sorcerer's Apprentice and reminiscent of Tomie dePaola's
Strega Nona.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011
"The full-length novel better conveys the complex narrative, but this picture-book version makes the basic story easily accessible to all. Final art not seen. (Picture book. 4-9)"
The beloved novel about the ultimate church Christmas pageant is abridged for a younger audience or shorter holiday storytimes, with charming watercolor illustrations that bring the crowd of Herdmans to life.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011
"The overall effect is sparkling, cozy and festive, just the results the cute little critter was seeking for his holiday celebration. (Picture book. 3-5)"
In this fourth story about Little Hedgehog, he prepares for Christmas with the help of his forest friends, creating homemade decorations and gifts before hosting a holiday gathering in his cozy burrow.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011
"A gentle but dramatic story of an earlier time, when just one care package could make a happy Christmas for an entire family. (author's note) (Picture book. 5-9)"
A girl and her little brother spend a Depression-era Christmas on an island off the coast of Maine with their recently widowed father in this nostalgic, touching story of how Christmas surprises can arrive in amazing ways.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 30, 2011
"The premise of cats running amok at a tea party has the potential for humor, but neither the writer nor the illustrator can pull this off. (Picture book. 3-6) "
Eight cats crash a Christmas tea party in this rhyming holiday story that tries hard to be funny and charming but misses the mark by more than a whisker.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 27, 2011
"A sentimental but touching story with beautifully realized illustrations. (author's note) (Picture book. 5-9)"
An elderly man named Henry recalls the Christmas season of 1931 in this relatively long story that connects the Depression era to Habitat for Humanity via the enormous Christmas trees at Rockefeller Center in New York City.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 27, 2011
"A grand display item, undeniably fragile but capable of surviving--and rewarding--multiple careful readings. (Pop-up picture book/religion. 6-8, adult)"
Dazzlingly intricate paper sculptures commemorate both the holiday and some of the settings in which it has been celebrated over the centuries since "Jewish freedom first was fought."
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 19, 2011
"The subtle theme of the transformative power hidden within heartfelt gifts is elegantly conveyed in this amusing holiday offering. (Picture book. 3-7)"
The Mellops family of pigs prepares for Christmas in this delightfully droll fable about the importance of giving to others at Christmastime.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 15, 2011
"This will be of interest to Alaskan residents and those fond of sled dogs, but most youngsters will prefer a more traditional or more amusing interpretation. (author's note, glossary) (Picture book. 5-8)"
Yet another parody of "The Night Before Christmas," this time with a sled-dog theme and an Alaskan setting.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 15, 2011
"As sweet and clever as a gingerbread house (with a frosting of humor) and as satisfying as a cup of hot chocolate. (Picture book /early reader. 4-8)"
Duck and Rat celebrate Christmas at their bookstore with an assortment of animal friends in this early reader that will also win over younger children as a read-aloud.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 13, 2011
"The emotion-filled text conveys the excitement and wonder of the Nativity story, but Jay's stunning illustrations are the volume's best feature. (Picture book/religion. 3-6)"
A wide variety of animals from diverse environments feels the excitement of the impending event in Bethlehem, and many of them hurry along, crowding around the manger to welcome Baby Jesus.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 13, 2011
"A simple but real story and charming, polished illustrations of appealing mice elevate this above most holiday stories with a movable format. (Picture book. 2-6)"
A large family of charming mice decorates its Christmas tree together in this pleasant holiday offering with sturdy, cardboard pages and a cleverly designed lift-the-flap and pop-up format.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 6, 2011
A velvety cover in holly-berry red sets the tone for this short collection of traditional Christmas carols illustrated with Hague's cuddly animal characters singing along with each other and preparing for the holiday.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011
"This satisfying tale from a consummate storyteller will be popular with those who like Scandinavian settings, and many readers will wish for a companion like Sister Bear. (author's note) (Picture book/folktale. 4-8)"
Yolen's clever retelling of an old Norse folktale changes the main character from a boy to a brave, smart girl named Halva, a welcome addition to the roster of clever folk heroines who solve their own problems.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011
"A dramatic but lugubrious subject for a Christmas story. (author's note) (Picture book. 6-10)"
The true story of a ship loaded with Christmas trees that was lost in a storm on Lake Michigan in 1912 is interwoven with a nostalgic reminiscence by an adult narrator recalling storytelling grandfather.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011
"A pleasing story for preschoolers to enjoy with a favorite stuffed animal and a Christmas cookie. (Picture book. 2-5)"
A little preschool-age girl prepares for Christmas as her adoring lamb toy watches in this sweet story first published in Australia.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011
"An appealing story with a magical aura spun by the shimmering illustrations and memorable story. (author's note) (Picture book/folktale. 4-8) "
An impoverished single human mother struggling to provide a Christmas treat for her children and a spider mother trying to care for her own babies find their lives intersecting on Christmas Eve in this poignant interpretation of a Ukrainian folktale.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011
"But folktales are sometimes allowed to be a little puzzling, and the talents of Kimmel and the San Soucis keep this enigmatic and unusual Christmas story aloft. (author's note, glossary) (Picture book/folktale. 5-9)"
Kimmel, an expert in folktales and their origins, retells a mysterious story about six French-Canadian fur traders who use a magical flying canoe to get home to Montreal for Christmas.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011
"A dazzling accomplishment. (Picture book. 3-7)"
The lovely cover of this exquisite interpretation of the classic song draws readers in immediately with its soft pink background and delicate pear tree next to a cup of tea and a letter hinting at the delightful story inside.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011
"A lighthearted lift for the holiday season, though the pat ending renders it a little more "ho-ho-hum" than "ho-ho-ho." (Picture book. 4-8) "
Roly-poly Santa plunges to the ground when his sleigh breaks, and he meets an unlikely cast of reindeer substitutes.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011
"The forgettable text is just a placeholder to accompany the illustrations, but the novelty of the changeable pictures and movable flaps will interest younger children during the long days before Christmas. (Picture book. 3-5)"
A slight story about Santa's countdown to Christmas Eve is paired with nostalgic, soft-focus illustrations with changeable picture cutouts and gatefold flaps offering surprises within the art.
Read full book review >
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011
"This inclusive holiday story offers a realistic perspective on one family's ability to embrace an autistic individual with respect and compassion. (author's note) (Picture book. 6-8)"
The traditional family Hanukkah celebration is here adjusted to include an autistic boy's interpretation.
Read full book review >
