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!"
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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.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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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.
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