Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




2011 Christmas & Hanukkah Picture-Book Roundup (page 7)


Cover art for MUSHER'S NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 15, 2011
by Tricia Brown, illustrated by Debra Dubac

"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 >
Cover art for DUCK & COMPANY CHRISTMAS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 15, 2011
by Kathy Caple, illustrated by Kathy Caple

"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 >
Cover art for SONG OF THE STARS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 13, 2011
by Sally Lloyd-Jones, illustrated by Alison Jay

"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 >
Cover art for CHRISTMAS IN THE MOUSE HOUSE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 13, 2011
by Maggie Kneen, illustrated by Maggie Kneen

"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 >
Cover art for MICHAEL HAGUE'S TREASURY OF CHRISTMAS CAROLS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 6, 2011
by Michael Hague, illustrated by Michael Hague

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 >
Cover art for SISTER BEAR
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011
retold by Jane Yolen, illustrated by Linda Graves

"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 >