EVIE'S CHRISTMAS WISHES

Evie and her family prepare for Christmas while she notes her holiday wishes.

Getting ready means rehearsing the school Nativity play, preparing the cake, decorating the tree, and writing to Santa Claus. Throughout, Evie whispers wishes and hopes—for a singing part in the play, for a delicious cake, and even for a baby sister. Though she doesn’t get exactly what she dreams of, things have a way of working out—she wishes for a reindeer but she finds the family has an ornament version at home, for example. The family also looks forward to a visit from Uncle Seán, who has a surprise in store. While the location isn’t explicitly stated, Gaelic shop signs and terms such as Mammy for mom indicate the story is likely set in Ireland. Bergin’s illustrations are warm and inviting, with rich oranges and reds and effective use of light and shadow. Evie, her parents, and her uncle are light-skinned; their community is a diverse one. Parkinson, the first children’s laureate of Ireland, captures a child’s eager holiday energy and hopeful spirit. Though the plot is simple, the pairing of text and illustration makes this a cozy, feel-good read. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

Charming illustrations buoy this sweet holiday tale.