MRS. SANTA CLAUS
by Penny Ives & illustrated by Penny Ives
Calamity! Not only Santa but the reindeer are ill, ``covered in spots.'' Not to worry: after gathering the letters that have fallen during the night with the snow, his wife finishes making the toys, then engineers her own vehicle (vacuum plus bike, hung with baskets), dons the appropriate costume, takes care of Santa's rounds, and comes home to find him well again, ready to run her a lovely bath before the breakfast feast he's prepared. Predictable role reversal, but done with affection and lively good humor that make it one of the holiday season's more appealing new offerings. (Picture book. 4-8)