Editorial Review

Llama Llama holidays.
Jingle music. Lights ablaze.
How long till that special date?
Llama Llama has to wait.

If there's one thing Llama Llama doesn't like, it's waiting. He and Mama Llama rush around, shopping for presents, baking cookies, decorating the tree . . . but how long is it until Christmas? Will it ever come? Finally, Llama Llama just can't wait any more! It takes a cuddle from Mama Llama to remind him that "Gifts are nice, but there's another: The true gift is, we have each other." ... Read more

Reviews

Dewdney is a master at books young kids love to have read to them, October 20, 2010
Llama Llama holiday delight.
The book is wonderful. I bought 3, one for each of our grandchild families. But Grandma wants to know where her copy is...oops...nana nana holiday trauma.

The book does NOT fail to bring smiles and squeals of delight from young children being read this drama of Llama Llama waiting through the last days prior to Christmas. Each rhyming page brings more pre-Christmas activity, all in preparation for the big event. But poor llama llama just can't wait. Every child will relate to all the steps that even llamas must go through to arrive at Christmas Day. Truth is...so can Papa's and Nana's, we all hate waiting, but so enjoy all the preliminaries, including now a frequent reading of "Llama Llama Holiday Drama" by Anna Dewdney. In the end, Llama Llama learns a lesson suited for all, from toddlers to elderly seniors.

The illustration art inside is the same great Llama quality as all of the Llama Llama books. The dustcover for this Christmas book has a wonderful snowy background that shimmers, just like real snow on a cold winter's day.

As grandparents, we will not be able to wait, like Llama Llama had to do. We'll give our book gifts early so the grand-kids can enjoy it many times prior to Christmas.

Loved it! Just as great as the others!, November 4, 2010
Just got this for my daughters; 2 & 5; I started reading the llama books to my oldest when she was 3 and she still loves them, my 2 year old loves shouting llama llama! I plan to give them this on ThanksGiving, but read thru it b/c I love reading these books too. At first I was kinda disappointed thinking all llama cares about is gifts (which lets face it, its all most kids care about) but when its momma's turn to talk, she quickly sums up the importance of this special holiday. I loved it and I really think my girls will to. How can you not have fun reading such a cute book. I love rhymes and these are quite clever.

We love all the llama books but I think Misses Momma is one of our favorites, great to read to a child going to school or day care for the first time. I highly recommend all the Llama books, esp this one for the holidays.

Not as good as the others, goes out of way to avoid Christmas controversy, November 26, 2010
I have enjoyed reading all of the previous Llama Llama books, so I preordered this one back in July without hesitation, but unfortunately it is not anywhere as good as the previous books. What really irks me about this book is how it goes WAY out of its way to avoid saying the word, "Christmas," and I don't know why the author felt she had to do so. The book tries to be inclusive of all "winter" holidays, showing a Menorah in the inside front cover, but little llama and his mama are obviously getting ready for the countdown to Christmas day, so why not just say it? Instead saying, "the big day" or special day. It's Christmas! You're writing a Christmas book! Why shy away from the word?! Are you just riding Christmas' coat tails to try and sell more books? Does the author really think putting a menorah in the front inside cover and not mentioning the word 'Christmas' will mean she'll sell more books to families that don't celebrate Christmas? I'm not a right-winger by any stretch of the imagination, but I believe in CHRISTMAS and things like this really bug me, so 2 stars from me. I hope the next one is better, but I will probably browse it at the book store before pre-ordering again.

We love Llama Llama!, December 3, 2010
My first Llama Llama book was actually Llama Llama Mad At Mama and we were hooked from that point on. My son loves the cadence and rhythm of the Llama Llama books and we awaited the arrival of Holiday Drama with much anticipation. It's a great book to add to your holiday kids collection that really focuses on the value of spending time with the people you love. The holiday season can be very busy and overwhelming for little ones and this book helps to bring the holiday season back around to what is important. We love it!

Adorable and Useful Addition to the Llama Llama series, November 19, 2010
Anna Dewdney's Llama books each tackle a common preschool trouble spot with funny and cute rhymes. My kids and I love them. More please! I find a lot of rhyming children's books to be awkward and sappy reads, but Dewdney's rhymes are charming and clever and this new addition to the series is no exception. Waiting for the Big Day is very hard for little ones as the holiday excitement shifts into high gear, I am glad to have such a cute book to relate to my kids on this subject. They love it and the story of Llama overloading and then being calmed by a hug from his mama will give me something to talk about and refer the kids to during the holiday season, in trying to calm frazzed nerves and stave off any Llama-esque meltdowns that are just getting started. Also the book offers a very good preview of all the fun-but-sometimes-stressful things that are likely to happen in a preschool kid's life over the coming weeks, which is another great preventative measure to keep the anxiety at a minimum... the kids are reminded by this book that shopping, baking, crafting, decorating, etc.etc. and especially WAITING will be happening, and they will be expecting it to some extent. This is especially important for us because my twins are on the autism spectrum, but I think it is a great book to share with any preschool age kid at this time of year.

Book is a delight for young ones, November 18, 2010
My grandsons, 4 1/2 and 2 1/2 years, love the Llama Llama books and this one is no exception. I read it to them as they laughed at Llama Llama dealing with anticipation. Young children relate so well to the little worries and emotions with which the character deals. The plan was to give this book at a Christmas gift, but I read the story first and Llama Llama's experiences are for right now.

You gotta love what you gotta read..., December 24, 2010
We love this series. (Also bought "Llama, llama, Red Pyjama" AND the similarly dressed stuffed toy.) The rhymes propel the reader along (and give you a chance to ham-it-up a little(. Also, the presence of a story line and the absence of nonsense words give the reader a lot of help. This reader appreciates that.

Great Find!!!!, December 23, 2010
This book is great! Much bigger than I had originally thought. Its a great book for kids & adults alike. I actually bought it for a girlfriend in her 30s! Great price and GREAT shipping! I ordered it with 2 days shipping, was estimated to be here Christmas eve and actually arrived the 23rd! COuldn't be happier with the product and fast delivery!!

Perfect Christmas Book for Children & Parents, December 22, 2010
LOVE this book, it perfectly describes the Christmas rush from a little Llama's perspective with the most important message emphasized - being together for Christmas! Highly recommend all the Llama, Llama books!

Love this book!, December 21, 2010
We have the rest of the Llama Llama books and my 18 month old daughter loves them. I bought several of these to give out as Christmas gifts and they were a big hit. I would recommend this book to preschool aged kids, they love the story and adults love to read them too! ... Read more

Editorial Review

A magical train ride on Christmas Eve takes a boy to the North Pole to receive a special gift from Santa. "As always, the forms are sculptured, the perspectives as dazzling as they are audacious, the colors rich and elegant, the use of light and shadow masterly." -- Horn BookALA Notable Book
Booklist Editors' Choice
Horn Book Fanfare Selection
New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Books of theYear
Reading Rainbow Review Book ... Read more

Reviews

Is Santa Claus real?
This book opens the possibility that Santa Claus -- as presented to most of us -- may not physically exist. It does this in a way that will allow children and their parents to ease into that question, a graceful move from the belief in a living St. Nick, to a belief in the spirit of Christmas.

It begins like this: "On Christmas Eve, many years ago, I lay quietly in my bed. I did not rustle the sheets. I breathed slowly and silently. I was listening for a sound -- a sound a friend had told me I'd never hear -- the ringing of Santa's sleigh.

'There is no Santa,' my friend had insisted, but I knew he was wrong."

From here, we follow a beautifully illustrated story of this young boy's quiet night ride with other children, on the Polar Express train to the North Pole, a "huge city standing alone at the top of the world, filled with factories where every Christmas toy was made."

Our narrator is the fortunate child, picked by Santa, to receive the first gift of that Christmas. He knows exactly what he wants, a simple gift that will help him continue to believe in the magic of Christmas, a silver bell from a reindeer's harness.

He gets his wish, but loses it on the train ride home. However, there's a happy ending -- evidently Santa has found the bell, and put it under the tree. The boy and his little sister admire the beauty of the sound it makes, but their parents say, "Oh, that's too bad....It's broken."

Many years later, the boy's sister and all of his friends can no longer hear the bell.

"Though I've grown old, the bell still rings for me as it does for all who truly believe."

My youngest son at ages 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 has chosen to firmly believe with the narrator, but he's moved around in his reaction to the notion that Santa isn't real. From -- "that's ridiculous, isn't it?" to "Mom...it is ridiculous, isn't it?" This book will let him hold onto the Christmas spirit for as long as he wants, and to return to it whenever he needs it.

This version comes complete with CD's/tapes with readings. Buy the less expensive edition, add a silver bell, and (if you can), read it with the child yourself to give a really special gift.

A wonderful book for those who want to believe in the spirit of Christmas every day of every year.

Simply breath-taking...Christmas through the eyes of a child
"On Christmas Eve, many years ago, I lay quietly in my bed. I did not rustle the sheets. I breathed slowly and silently. I was listening for a sound -- a sound a friend had told me I'd never hear ...." And so begins one the of the most beautiful stories of all time. Although I am now a senior in college, The Polar Express has remained the most valued and cherished book in my ever-expanding library. A childhood Christmas gift, Chris Van Allsburg's timeless masterpiece has become a fixture at our family gatherings each and every holiday season. Every member of the family, from the youngest to the oldest, appreciates it's simple but elegant story-telling style illustrated by the soft and soothing silhouettes of Van Allsburg's full-color art. The Polar Express is the story of a young boy and his magical journey aboard a mythical train to the North Pole. The reader is taken along this incredible ride and rediscovers the true joy and pure spirit of a child at Christmas. Van Allsburg's beautiful illustrations become as important to the story as the words themselves. These life-like pictures encourage children of ALL ages to explore their own imaginations and to become active participants in the young boy's journey. In the end, the young boy has grown into an old man, but the spirit of Christmas still rings for him, "... as it does for all who truly believe." I hope you enjoy this book half as much as I do.

The Polar Express
I started reading this book to my children 15 years ago when they were toddlers. I would keep it with my Christmas decorations and bring it out every holiday season. Once they grew too old to be read to, I still brought it out every year and put it on the coffee table. Last year I started reading it to my two-year old son. I still cry with nostaligia each time I read The Polar Express, remembering the magic it held for my older children and how we read it over and over. Well, my second son loved it so much, it never go put away with the Christmas decorations. We read it together constantly, even during the summer! This is a book that never loses its magic -- for children and adults alike. I plan to give this book to my neices and nephews this Christmas.

Sophisticated Children's Christmas Book
My kids love the art and the story is enchanting.

A wonderful train ride full of children who want to believe churns its way to the North Pole and a meeting with Santa. Keeping with traditon, Santa selects one boy to present the first present of Christmas to before he mounts to the sky to visit all the homes of good boys and girls. Rather than ask for a bike, or Pokemon or any other "big" gift, the boy asks for one of Santa's sleigh bells, proof he can hold onto that yes, Santa does exist.

This tale of Christmas belief (in Santa, that is) works well on adults, too. It has a message about belief and wonderment that touch all who want to believe in the magic associated with the gift giving part of Christmas.

Warning, The Polar Express is best for children a little older than mine (5 1/2, 4). It introduces the concept that Santa may not exist. I get around this by not reading two paragraphs in the book, but you should be forwarned if that particular discussion in your household is several years away. (My kids also tell me everytime that the boy in the story should not get on the train at the invitation of a stranger.) At the right age, this is a magical and wonderful Christmas tale of belief.

Beautiful and Magical--A Timeless Classic
It is far too easy to express cynicism about Christmas. Likewise, it is far too easy to put down the Christmas season as too commercial. And it is far too easy to dismiss a seasonal gem such as The Polar Express as simplistic and sentimental. But this tale is one of belief, of keeping something which is childlike, not childish, and that just doesn't grow old.

The narrator, a boy, lies awake listening for the sound of the bells on Santa's sleigh, a sound a friend who doesn't believe in Santa Claus says that he won't hear. Indeed, he does not, but what he does hear is even more wonderful and remarkable. He hears the hiss of steam and the squeak of metal, and when he looks out the window, he sees a train outside his house. It is the Polar Express, heading for the North Pole.

Once aboard, he finds that it is full of children, all in their nightclothes. They sing Christmas carols, drink cocoa and eat candies as the train races northward. Finally, they arrive at the North Pole, and the narrator is selected to receive the first gift of Christmas. He asks for, and receives from Santa Claus himself, a silver bell from the sleigh.

Although the boy loses the bell on the way home, kindly Santa returns it to him, and the boy discovers that the bell has a remarkable quality. Only those who still believe in the wonder of Santa and the spirit of Christmas can hear the bell. His friends and his sister eventually cannot hear the bell, but even when he grows up "the bell still rings for [him] as it does for all who truly believe."

The story is accompanied by beautiful pictures that capture the nighttime journey. The author employs somber tones in most of his scenes, speckled with snow and highlighted with starlight and the glowing lights of the train. He captures the cold and mystery of the night, contrasting it with the warm interior scenes.

Every child should own this book. It is a magical story that they can appreciate for the rest of their lives.

Get the gift pack not just the book!
This is a lovely story. Both the writing and the illustrations are superior. This is one of those books that is definitely worth owning, and in a hardcover version, not a paperback that will wear and tear. Parents: it is a keeper, one that you will save for years and to read to your future grandchildren.

The story is of a boy's journey on a mysterious train, the Polar Express, that takes children (adorned in their pajamas) to the North Pole to Santa's village. I won't spoil the story by telling any more...

There are loads of Christmas themed children's books out there for this age range. Many are mediocre or just plain garbage. This book is in the superior category and a "must own".

Knowing nothing about this story, both my son and I were drawn to it because of his love of trains. If you don't know the story, just be aware it introduces the idea that not all people believe in Santa Claus. This was the first time my (then) three-year-old learned that not everyone believes, whether they are adults or children. It also explains that as some people grow older they change from a believer to a non-believer. Just know that before reading the story to your child. For us it introduced the idea of non-believing. Another family I know read the book after an older child told this young child there is no Santa Claus, and the book helped deal with the issue of when some believe and some don't believe.

The gift pack we purchased had the audio version on CD. Narrator-actor William Hurt's voice is wonderful, slow and flowing...just right to evoke the mood of the story! There is also a CD-ROM for the computer (sold separately), which is a read-aloud story with images that my children watch a handful of times per Christmas season.

The gift pack also comes with a Christmas tree ornament. My children are thrilled to have a Polar Express related ornament to adorn our Christmas tree because they love trains and they love this story.

Absolutely Enchanting!
This book is one of the most magical children's books I have ever come across! As soon as you open the front cover, you enter an exquisite world that has an almost dream-like quality to it. It is told in the first person point of view of an adult recounting his most memorable Christmas experience. And what an experience! The boy in the story is awakened one Christmas Eve by a train whistle and discovers the Polar Express waiting to take him to the North Pole to see Santa. Once there, the boy is chosen to receive the first gift of Christmas. The boy has a touchingly simple request --to have one of the bells from the harness of Santa's reindeer. It is given to him, and he is filled with joy! Yet, on the way home, the boy discovers that there is a hole in the pocket of his bathrobe, and he has lost the treasured bell.He is heart broken. The next morning he finds the bell in a box under the tree, and he rejoices in the new-found bell and its marvelous sound! The catch? Only those who truly believe in the magic of Santa can hear the sound of the bell.
I read this story every year to my children, and every year there is absolute silence as they listen, entranced, to this deceptively simple story. Afterward, they always beg to hear it again and again! They are fascinated by the beautiful illustrations and the language of this very moving story. I have a CD with my version and Liam Neeson does a beautiful job of reading the book, along with superb background sounds and effects that will make you feel as if you had taken the journey yourself. You will not for a minute regret buying this book--I guarantee it will become a treasured favorite with your children!As an adult it will fill you with a wistful yearning to go back to your childhood and experience once again the magic of being a child.

Fortunate Read-aloud parent
I volunteered for my daughters KDG class to be a read-aloud parent. The book was chosen for me. When I brought the book home to preview what I was going to be reading to the class, I vowed I would read it at least a dozen times at home first. Otherwise I would have ended the story in my daughter's class with tears streaming down my face as I had the first time I read it, and several times again. This is such a wonderful story and so beautifully illustrated. I decided that the whole class should have a jingle bell from Santa's sleigh. Luckily I found just what I needed at the craft store! I would like to thank the person who chose the book for me to read, for giving me the opportunity to experience this story in such a way that I was passing it along to not only my own children, but to 25 others. I would also like to thank the author for sharing with me a truly special gift. I will continue to recommend this book to everyone I know, and hope that they appreciate it the way I do. P.S. It is also going to be Christmas gifts for a few of my neices and nephews!

The Ability to Believe Again
This is the best christmas book ever written. I could simply stop there and enough would be said.

I discovered this book in 1985 before the world told me that Santa was only for children. I fell in love with the book the first time it was read to me. However, I did not aquire a copy of my own until I was about 16. By this time I no longer believed in Santa and had not read the book in years. I was wandering through my local book store and saw the familiar cover. I instantly smiled and something happened. I bought the book and took it home. I read the book and cried. I remembered Santa. I remembered how to believe.

It has been 5 years since I "discovered" this book again and I read is all the time now; in the summer and winter. I share the magic of The Polar Express with all of my friends. I even give sleigh bells to friends at Christmas who I think need a boost in their faith.

I highly recommend this book for all ages.

The Polar Express Review
This is a book about a Christmas memory. A little boy gets woken up on Christmas Eve by a trains whistle blowing. He finds a train waiting outside his house to take him to the North Pole. When he gets to the North Pole he sees Santa and he finds out that he has been chosen to receive the first Christmas gift. All he wants is one of Santas bells off his sleigh. He is the happiest boy until on the way home from the North Pole he realizes that there was a hole in his pocket and he has lost his bell. This really makes him upset but he wakes up on Christmas morning to find the bell as one of his presents. The thing is only people that truly believe in Santa Clause can hear the bell when it is rung.
This is a great book. It is beautifully illustrated and it really pulls in the reader. I loved it when I was little and I still love it today. I read it every year around Christmas and love it just as much every time I read it. The pictures really draw the reader in also, and they follow the story greatly. I think through this book, the author was trying to show that you have to have faith sometime. Only the ones that truly believe can hear the bell and I think that goes for a lot of things in life. I think it is a great story for children and adults of all ages. ... Read more

Editorial Review

What could be fancier than Christmas?

Presents with elegant wrapping paper, festive decorations, Christmas cookies with sprinkles—and who could forget the tree? After all, there is no such thing as too much tinsel. Ooh la la! This year, Nancy is especially excited about decorating the Christmas tree. She bought a brand-new sparkly tree topper with her own money and has been waiting for Christmas to come. But when things don't turn out the way Nancy planned, will Christmas still be splendiferous?

In this merriest of stories from bestselling duo Jane O'Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser, Nancy proves once again that a little fancying up can go a long, festive way!

Reviews

Christmas Fancy Nancy Style - perfect!
What an adorable book! I've been waiting for a Christmas related story of our favorite fancy girl, and this did not disappoint at all. Yet again, Nancy is perfectly fancy, perfectly eloquent, and and perfectly heartwarming. We are huge fans of both Fancy Nancy and Christmas in our house, and this book is a perfect addition to our holiday collection. A must for all Fancy girls out there!

Fancy Nancy - Christmas Fancy Style!
Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas


Fancy Nancy, what an adorable "fancy girl" she is, and wait until you read about her Christmas! Presents with elegant wrapping paper, fancy cookies, and wait until you see the tree topper Nancy purchased with her own money. But me things go awry, can Nancy still have a "splendiferous Christmas"?

MY THOUGHTS - This book is so very adorable. Targeted for the (4-8) age group, the book is beautifully illustrated by: Robin Preiss Glasser. There are some great new words for the little readers as well:

* aroma - nancy says: "a fancy word for smell"
* heirlooms - nancy says: "fancy for thinks that are old and valuable".
* delectable - nancy says: "fancy for yummy".
* pleading - nancy says: "like begging only fancier" AND........
* splendiferous - nancy says " only one word describes how magnificent, joyous and sparkly Christmas morning is"

Truly a delightful holiday read for children (and adults too)!

Reading Fancy Nancy Will Make You Smarter!
I bought my granddaughter, Mary Mace, her first Fancy Nancy book when she was just 3 years old in 2007. She fell head over high heels in love with the witty, sparkly Nancy and her over-the-top ways. Since January of 2007, I have bought her every Fancy Nancy book and she devoured them, memorizing the story as her mother read them to her.

When she got this book last week, she immediately called me. She's now almost 6 years old and in kindergarten. She said, "Grammy, I love, love, love the new Fancy Nancy book. It's utterly splendiferous!" I laughed and asked her about the story and she told me all about it. Then my daughter got on the phone and told me that Mary Mace was recently tested and promoted to a first grade reader because she's so far ahead of the other children. Her teacher was amazed by how many 'big' words Mary Mace knew. My daughter and I both agreed that Fancy Nancy played a huge part in expanding Mary Mace's vocabulary. Each book is full of exciting, fun words and synonyms and the artwork is fabulous and glittering.

If you're looking for a book to make a little girl extremely happy this year for Christmas, I highly recommend this book and all of the Fancy Nancy books. They're not only fun, but also educational!

Fancy Nancy does Christmas
Tada another great Fancy Nancy story. Fancy Nancy takes on Christmas where the more decorations the merrier. From decorating the house, to buying the tree at Bruces Spruces, to the elegantly wrapped presents, Christmas is done up Fancy Nancy style--splendiferously. If you are familiar with the Fancy Nancy series then you can see the appeal she holds for young and old alike. This book is just a Joyeux Noel of Christmas.

A Christmas Classic
What little girl does not love bling, glitter and Fancy Nancy? The illustrations are "splendiferous" and the story line endearing. It will definitely become a Christmas Classic.

Delightful... that's fancy for great!
Jane O'Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser have delivered again, and just in time for Christmas. Splendiferous Christmas follows Nancy Clancy through her holiday preparations. As usual, she wants to make everything as fancy as possible, and, with only a few hitches, she succeeds. Now, if only Grandpa would arrive so she could decorate the tree... The story is just as adorable as the other books, and the illustrations are absolutely enchanting. As an artist, I have fairly high standards for illustrators, and Ms. Glasser more than meets them.

All in all, Fancy Nancy: Splendiferous Christmas is a delightful book. It's the perfect present for all the fancy little girls in my life, and I hope it is for all of them in yours.

Fun with Great Vocabulary Words
I purchased this book after hearing about Fancy Nancy from a friend of mine who is a second grade teacher. This is our first Fancy Nancy book and it was a hit with my three year old daughter.

I know some reviewers of Fancy Nancy find her to be pretentious and materialistic because they say she looks down on others who are not as creative and fancy as she is, and they don't want to expose their daughters to that way of thinking. My daughter is by no means fancy or much of a girly-girl, but this book got her excited to prepare for Christmas and two months since we have read it, she still uses some of the words she learned from the book, like "aroma," "heirloom," and "delectable."

Creativity has not been my daughter's forte. She has never been interested in really any arts and crafts (even coloring), but rather working puzzles and building. Since we have read this (and some other Fancy Nancy books), she's been much more interested in making fancy cards for people, decorating for events and festivities, and being creative in general. It all started with Fancy Nancy.

I love that this book has helped expand her vocabulary and creativity. I'll be buying more Fancy Nancy books.

No words to describe this book!

This is one of the most adorable books I have seen in a long time. I bought it for my 4 year old granddaughter. She & I had a private moment on Christmas Day when I read it to her & that made my Christmas, "Splendiferous"!

Another Wonderful Book
My little niece loves the Fancy Nancy series and this was a big hit. Nancy learns from her grandfather what makes Christmas really special.

We couldn't wait for Santa!
We couldn't wait for Santa for this one and decided to give it to our Fancy Nancy fan early. We'll now but reading this "slendiferous" story along with Frosty the Snowman and Twas the Night Before Christmas. This book is another Fancy Nancy Smash Hit at our house! Author of Mommy's High Heel Shoes and Mom to 3. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Jack and Annie are ready for their next fantasy adventure in the bestselling middle-grade series—the Magic Tree House!

Jack and Annie’s mission from Merlin the Magician? To help the famous writer Charles Dickens! In a magical whirl, the brother and sister are whisked back in time to Victorian England and the foggy streets of London.

There, Jack and Annie discover that Charles Dickens has everything he could possibly want. How can they help him? It is not until Mr. Dickens rescues them from being thrown in jail that they discover his secret past and the sad memories that haunt him. They will need all their magic—and help from three ghosts—to keep the great writer from ruining his life!

Mary Pope Osborne mixes magic, humor, history, a little spookiness, and a lot of heart to create this tale, which celebrates the joys of writing—something she knows a lot about, thanks to millions of readers all over the world!

This is the perfect book for boys and girls about to see the classic play A Christmas Carol.

Visit the Magic Tree House Web site!
www.magictreehouse.com ... Read more

Reviews

Inviting! Liked the whole thing
My nine year old daughter's review...

'This book called me in the book store! "Come read me, come read me!". I thought that it described how the ghosts came out really well. I also thought that it was a really good way to teach a lesson to kids by telling them that they shouldn't be greedy or selfish and should help others more; they should be kind and hospitable. My favorite part was when Charles Dickens was chatting with his fans in the restaurant at the end.'

I'll just add that she read it in one sitting, so I know she enjoyed it.

Adventure, magic and ghostly encounters
Another Magic Tree House title - #44 - by Mary Pope Osborne provides a satisfying holiday title in A GHOST TALE FOR CHRISTMAS TIME. Here Jack and Annie find their next task is to help famous writer Charles Dickens, and they are taken back in time to Victorian England London where they discover Dickens doesn't really need their help. Their discovery of his hidden sadness leads to adventure, magic and ghostly encounters in this latest fine addition to the popular series.

Magic Tree House books
I bought the remaining Magic Tree House books for my Grandkids. They enjoy reading these books. They have all of them and have on order the 45th book in the series. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

Love David

My daughter loves this!
My 2 year old has learned lots of new christmas words like "decorations" and "ornaments" etc from reading this book and discussing what is happening on each of the pages. She loves David. ... Read more

Editorial Review

“I think I understand!” Little Star cried out. “The baby Jesus is a king! He’s just little!”
 
A king is about to be born! The stars in the heavens are competing to shine the brightest to celebrate his birth. But when they see the poor family, the donkey, the shabby stable, the stars all think, That can’t possibly be a king. We’ve been fooled.

All except one. The smallest, loneliest star in the sky, Little Star, is the only one to understand what the king was about to bring to the world. But what can Little Star do for him? 

Certain to become a Christmas classic, this delightful tale connects the star atop our Christmas trees to the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of Jesus, in the hearts and minds of young children. ... Read more

Reviews

Sweet Children's Christmas Story, November 10, 2010
I was recently presented with the opportunity to review Anthony DeStefano's Little Star. Little Star is a Christmas story for young children. It is beautifully illustrated by Mark Elliot. The illustrations remind me a bit of The Polar Express. I found myself gazing at many of the illustrations for several minutes. My five year old spent a good twenty minutes flipping though the book to just look at the pictures after I had read the book to her. She was equally captivated by the illustrations.

I was impressed by the sweet story of Little Star. The focus of Little Star's is the birth of Jesus. Without giving away the story, Little Star gives his best to recognize the birth of the little king who was born in the most humble circumstances. Children learn about the real Christmas story as Little Star experienced it.

I like this story because it's not one of those Christmas stories that's focused on the secular aspects of the holiday, instead, the story's focus is precisely where it belongs, on Christ. The story's meaning is very easily conveyed to young children. I'm sure this book will be well received by children between the ages of three to eight.

I was provided with a review copy of this book, by the author in exchange for my honest review.

Great Book For Christmas!, November 1, 2010
The book is about a King that is about to be born. The stars in heaven are competing as to who will shine the brightest to celebrate his birth. But when they see the poor family, the donkey, the stable, the stars don't believe he is the king. One little star does.

This book is beautifully illustrated on every page, and definitely a great book to read to your kids or give as a gift!

Last night my husband read the book to our kids in bed and they got into the story, was happy for the star, and then sad until they saw how it ended and rejoiced. They completely got into and loved all the pictures. It was a hit with our little group! What a great present to get for your child, little family member or friend for Christmas!

Fresh Perspective on the Christmas Story, October 30, 2010
I'm always looking for Biblically based Christmas stories for my children. I am thrilled with Little Star, as it gives a fresh and creative perspective on the birth of Jesus. Tears came to my eyes when I came to the part of the story where the star gets it. "... Little Star was the only one to understand the king's message. His message was love." What a wonderful way to capture the purpose behind this once ever event. Anthony Destano has hit the bulls-eye once again.

A Shining Little Star in the World of Children's Books, November 12, 2010

When my children were small, we used to pile on the couch, me in the middle with my daughter on my lap, and the boys on either side, sometimes sitting on the top of the couch so they could get a better view of the pictures, and we would spend hours each evening reading stories. Those were wonderful moments for my family and I do miss those storied evenings now that my children are so much older and read on their own.

So, when Anthony DeStefano asked me to take a look at his newest book for children, Little Star, and told me that it was about his effort to encapsulate the whole Christ story in the message of the incarnation, I was not only intrigued to see how he made that effort work, but I was also overcome with a sense of nostalgia for reading childrens books, and so I gladly accepted his offer. I am very glad that I did!

When the book arrived in the mail, I quickly glanced through it and decided I would wait to read it until I could invite my two youngest children, Jack-11, and Mary-9, to read it with me. I wanted their viewpoints on the book as well, since it is intended for children. The three of us shared a relaxing evening as we enjoyed the artwork of Mark Elliott (we especially loved Little Star's cowlick of hair!) and the enchantingly uplifting story of Little Star. When we finished reading the book, I asked my children if they understood what the story was about, and without missing a beat, Mary answered, "It's about the death and resurrection of Jesus." Her response made it obvious that the object of the story came through loud and clear.

Through the viewpoint of the stars in heaven, one little loner star rose to a lofty position as the only one who recognized the importance of a king born in a cold and humble stable. He roused himself to shine brightly for the baby, offering warmth and light as his gift, and burned so brightly that he burned himself out for the Lord. Through Little Star, we learn that when we lay our lives down for others, giving our best and our all, we will never die, but like Jesus, we will live forever in the memories and hearts of those who follow us.

Little Star is a wonderful story with a wonderful message. It's sure to become a family classic enjoyed not only at Christmas time, but throughout the year as well.

One Star - Many Stories, December 5, 2010
I was looking for a good Christmas story for my 4-year old daughter and was excited to receive this book for review in exchange for an honest opinion.

As taken from the back cover of the book, "A king is about to be born! The stars in the heavens are competing to shine the brightest to celebrate his birth. But when they see the poor family, the donkey, the shabby stable, the stars all think, That can't possibly be a king. We've been fooled." Well, all the stars but one think that and this is the story of that one little star. Little Star is a bit different from the other stars and is ignored by them as a result. He alone recognizes the importance of the event he's witnessed and in an effort to love and warm the baby Jesus, he winds up "burning himself out".

The illustrations, by Mark Elliott, (especially the nativity scenes) are beautiful. The illustrations depicting the story of Little Star and the other stars and seem a little out of place. They are done in a different style - almost cartoonish compared to the more realistic scenes of the father/son storyline and the nativity.

The story is passed along from father to son and tries to make a connection as to why many people put a star on top of their trees at Christmas time. The story is cute and there was a nice lesson to be learned from it. However, I felt like there were 3 different stories going on in this children's book and it could be confusing for younger children. I somewhat liked the tie to our traditions of using stars on top of our Christmas trees, but that almost seemed like a fourth story idea. I was a little bothered by the ending that every Christmas, people put stars on top of their trees to remember Little Star. Overall, it was a cute book, but I would give it a 3 out of 5 stars due to the disjointed illustrations and numerous story lines going on.

Great Story - Great Illustrations!, November 9, 2010
Got this book about a week ago & read it to the kiddos right away. Even my 8 yr old loved it! Great illustrations as well.

What someone little can do for love, November 23, 2010
I was excited to receive a review copy of Anthony DeStefano's new hardcover children's book, Little Star, from Waterbrook Press. This nativity story for children, just in time for Advent, is unequivocally pro-life. I am happy to recommend a book for children that celebrates the precious gift of life. My own reaction to the book is one of delight. Mark Elliott's enchanting illustrations will captivate young readers as they learn about the tiniest star in the sky, Little Star, and his desire to show his love for the newborn Baby Jesus.

"I think I understand," Little Star cried out. "The baby Jesus IS a king!"

This pro-life message is very apparent as young readers understand that looks can be deceiving: Being physically little has nothing to do with greatness or worth. A little star and Jesus, the Baby King-- both very little but full of so much love. Indeed, as Little Star realized his love and devotion for the newborn King, he could not contain it any longer, and proved to the rest of the other, bigger stars just what someone little can do for love. The sacrifice that Little Star made for his adoration of the newborn King in Bethlehem mirrors the supreme Act of Love that Jesus made for each one of us.

In fact, the sweet character of Little Star reminds me of St. Therese, the Little Flower, who loved her littleness and had such devotion to her Savior, doing all she could for Him in spite of--and because of--her littleness.

I highly recommend Little Star this Advent season for children and the adults who love them.

So Amazing that I cried!!!, August 12, 2010
This is a truly remarkable book for those of any age. In a way, it reminds me of the Giving Tree. Not only will children love it for Christmas but grown ups will enjoy reading it with them. This amazing author really finds a way to touch our hearts every time.

The Parable of Little Star, December 3, 2010
Since I am a big fan of Anthony DeStefano's "Ten Prayers God Always Says Yes To," I was thrilled to receive a review copy of his latest project, "Little Star." As a devout Catholic and mother, I am always looking for good books that teach faith principles without being "preachy" and "Little Star" is just that.

After reading this beautifully illustrated book, I gave it to my 11 year-old daughter. She flipped through the pages, enthralled, and handed it back to me, declaring, "I just love this book!" Even older children appreciate the simple lesson that Little Star teaches us.

If you read the book carefully, you will realize that Little Star is a Christ figure. Little Star is humble and self-sacrificing, rejected by his peers, willingly gives his life for others but is resurrected in light and glory. God rewards Little Star for giving his life by ensuring that he is remembered forever and ever. Sound familiar?

"Little Star" offers the perfect opportunity to teach our children to be Christ-like through this little parable which gently reminds us that Jesus is "the reason for the season." Highly recommended.

A Nice Story, December 1, 2010
There are so many seasonal books available, but so few really live up to expectations. This one almost hits the mark.

Little Star is ignored by all the other stars, but when he sees the new king born in a humble stable, he alone of the all stars understands that Jesus chose to be "born little to show all the people of the world that he loved them, no matter how small or poor they were." Inspired by this love, Little Star burns brightly to warm the newborn baby, in the end burning himself out. But he isn't really gone, because every Christmas we put a star on the top of our tree to remember him by.

The illustrations in the story are lovely for the most part - the manger scenes are truly gorgeous. The images of Little Star and his fellow stars, on the other hand, are very cartoony and feel disjointed compared to the more lavish earthly images. The story itself is sweet and has a nice moral, but I found the "tell me a story, daddy" narrative device to be unnecessary and contrived. And while I liked the tie-in to our tradition of star tree-toppers, the idea that our memory keeps Little Star alive bothered me. Still, it's a nice little story to add to the genre. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Christmas is almost here! Little Bear can smell it—and so can you! The air is filled with the aroma of gingerbread cookies, minty candy canes, the piney Christmas tree,and yummy hot apple pie. Celebrate the holiday season with this classic Golden storybook which includes six scratch-and-sniff scents. ... Read more

Reviews

One Sniff & Suddlenly I'm 6 Years Old Again ..., October 4, 2005
As a kid, this book was my absolute favorite and I read and re-read it year after year until the scratch n' sniffs were all out of smell. This book embodies all of the wonder of the Holiday Season, as seen through the eyes of a child. What could be more wonderful than the smell of apple pie baking on Christmas Eve or of the juicy orange nestled in the top of your stocking? When this fabulous book was reissued last year, I immediately bought a copy, so that I could share it with my son, who was a little over two at the time. Reading this book brought back all of the great memories of my own childhood Christmases and my son was delighted, as well. This is truly a classic to be handed down from generation to generation.

The Sweet Smell Of Christmas, November 26, 1999
This was my all time favorite Christmas book as a youngster. I can vividly recount the smell of little bears hot chocolat and candy cane and the Christmas Tree. The wonderful sense of anticipation that any child will share as little bear waits for Christmas morning. If only this book were in print I would definitely buy a copy for all of my children and neices and nephews to treasure as a family heirloom. My childhood copy has since been lost and I would dearly love to share this story with my children. Golden Books - Please send this wonderful story to print again.

Classic Christmas scratch & sniff book back in print!, January 6, 2005
I remember reading this book to my baby sister when she was young; ( she turns 30 this year). About at this time the scratch & sniff stickers where all the rage as well as those smelly food markers! Any way.... I am very pleased that the book has been brought back in print and I love the story. The peppermint, hot coco and orange smell so good. My only complaint is when they redid this classic why they didn't make the scratch and sniff areas larger! They are the original size that they where back when ( the size of a quarter ) and I remember we scratched the sniff right off our book. In todays world where DK publishing in my opinion RULES the Scratch & Sniff books... like Food and the Garden book, why they didn't take the time to make the scratch and sniff areas BIGGER! They have the technology and I am sure none of us who originally owned the books would have complained because they made the smelly areas bigger! That is the only reason that I gave this book a 4 star rating rather than a 5 star. I have a fondness for Patricia Scary and her husband Richard... just make the scratch and sniff areas bigger! It's a cute story about baby bear and his mama and Papa Bear, I just love Papa bear's hat on Christmas morning!

Sweet Smell of Christmas, August 11, 2000
This was my favorite book as a child. Now that I have a daughter, I thought for sure that it was still at my parent's home. I was disappointed to not find it. I went to order it and it is out of print. Please publish this wonderful classic again. I would surely buy several copies for my daughter, all young relatives and one for myself. I can still smell the hot chocolate, candy canes and pine tree. This is the greatest book and deserves to be in print again to be enjoyed from generation to generation.

Great Book - Found Replacement Stickers!, September 30, 2010
I don't remember this book as a kid, but my mom swears I had it. Now I'm 33 and I have a daughter of my own and this was given to us Christmas of 2008. It was during Christmas 2009 when she really found this book and fell in love with it, as did I reading it to her. We just love it. As other reviewers have said, this book just evokes great memories of the Christmas season. And who can not love the scratch and sniff smells.

Now here is lies the rub about this book. Only the very potent aromatic smells last at all. Pine and peppermint were still going a year later, but the rest (apple pie, gingerbread, hot chocolate, and orange) were pretty much dead. And after just one season even the pine and peppermint started to go. So what is one to do when your one of your daughter's favorite books loses its prominent scratch and sniff feature. Well you go on a sticker hunt and as of Sept 2010, I've now found them all.

Since it was so hard to find these stickers I wanted to post a review of the book and a location that other parents like me could find replacement stickers. I started my search in June 2010 and found almost all of them at the website EverythingSmells.com. The only scent that seemed non-existent was gingerbread (unless you wanted to buy 2500 stickers from a custom company or cut your own out of Target greeting cards). So I emailed the company and asked if they knew of anywhere to get gingerbread. They didn't know, but kept my email and just wrote me today to tell me that they now have a gingerbread sticker for sale! So now you can get all the stickers in one place! Mind you, they will not look like the original stickers, but at least the children don't care. It's the act of scratching and sniffing that matters to them.

So to the parents out there that bemoan the fact that the book has lost its smell--go get some stickers (with plenty of spares), paste them in, and re-enjoy the book with your children or grandchildren for all it's Christmas charm. I know we did and still do today.

My Favorite Book As A Kid & Now A Gift For My Son!, November 7, 2005
This book is amazing. I cannot remember a Christmas that did not involve this book, the smell of the apple pie, the pine tree, the hot cocoa, the orange, the gingerbread...I even tried to lick the stickers when I was little and had to replace them with regular scratch and sniff stickers that had the same smell! I still have mine but just as I got Angelo his own copy of Little Bunny Follows His Nose (also awesome!), I am getting him his own copy of this book for Christmas this year. I will write a note under the front cover and hope that he has this book until he can read it to his own kids someday and maybe even get them a copy of their own. I love this book and it has made fond memories for both my mother and I and I hope it will make some nice memories for my son as well! If you are looking for a book to buy for a grandchild or for someone who is expecting their first baby, this is perfect (I might even get one for my niece too!) and is a book that will start a tradition of years and years of holiday reading...and scratch and sniffing. Enjoy!

Not as great as it used to be..., August 18, 2007
The integrity of this book is seriously compromised by the new, non-descript, circular stickers. They actually obscure the illustrations that they cover. It makes me sad that what used to be a childhood favorite is now seems so cheaply made. Also, the scents are faint. If you're buying the book for the story and illustrations it is still fun. But if the scratch-n-sniff aspect is an important component(why wouldn't it be?), you'll probably be disappointed.

What Wonderful Memories!, December 11, 2006
As a child, I knew it was Christmas when my mother brought out this wonderful book. I scratched and I sniffed, year after year, until all the scent was gone. Or so I thought... Last year, while unpacking a box of childhood books and toys, I ran across my copy. The fragrance is faint, but the memories are strong. What a magical feeling this book evokes, combining a charming story with scents that have lingered in my mind all these years. I just bought a copy for my own 6-year-old, and I can't wait to give it to him for Christmas!

Please bring Little Bear back, December 12, 1999
My children went through two copies of this wonderful book. We still have one copy but it is tattered and the smells are but a memory. My daughter is trying to find as many of her childhood favorites as possible for her daughter and was very disappointed that this is now out of print. Traditions are important in our fragmented society. Please bring this book back.

A holiday classic that deserves to be reprinted., November 24, 1998
Some kind soul gave my 30-year-old "little" brother a copy when he was a toddler and, luckily, I happened upon a it five years ago to give to my own son. Now my brother's son is ready for his own copy! The story is simple: a young bear delights in anticipating Christmas. But the scratch-and-sniff illustrations tell the story so viscerally that many years later, I can still smell the orange in the little bear's stocking (and the gingerbread, pine bough, hot chocolate, apple pie and candy cane). This book proves that smell is our keenest memory sense. In both of our family's copies, the scent patches have all been scratched nearly through to the page. This year, my wish is that Golden Books would reprint thousands of new copies to put under next year's Christmas trees. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

Destined to become a classic, November 22, 2009
I purchased several books hoping to better explain Christmas to my 2 year old. The other books were all classics but this one was the best of the lot. The book had a message that applied to both my 2 year old daughter and my 29 year old daughter. It was beautiful and I found myself tearing up at the end of the book. My daughter loved the pictures and has had me read the book to her quite a few times.

The Spirit of Christmas, December 7, 2009
Every year I give my children, who are all over 21 now, a Christmas book. When I read "The Spirit of Christmas" I knew it was the one for this year. It is rhyming, which I love, and told in first person by a mother, or grandmother,or a favorite aunt, or simply the giver of the book. The spirit of Christmas comes to her and tries to help her feel the spirit of Christmas. He names several things the spirit of Christmas brings: "Bells, he said, Jingle bells! Bells right away! Bells on a one horse galloping sleigh" and "Snow that lies silent, As quiet as a mouse, And roads that all lead to your grandmother's house."
Near the end he reminds her that the season was started by a child and that's when it dawns on her, "That's when I got it! That's when I knew! The thing that was missing from Christmas was you!" My daughter-in-law read it and I ask her what she thought of it and she said, "I think you love us." That is true.

The most beautiful children's Christmas book ever!, December 2, 2009
Nancy Tillman has created the most beautiful Christmas book ever! I purchased one for my little niece and I look forward to reading it to her at Christmastime.

This book is an absolute MUST for everyone's library! I would suggest that you buy one for someone you love AND buy one for the gift giving that is available in all of our cities for the underprivileged children.

The Spirit of Christmas has messages that will warm your heart. Sure, the children definitely "win" by having this book read to them, or by reading it themselves, but as an adult, you will find your spirit deeply touched by these words. Heck, you may even want to buy a copy for an adult who still has that "child-like" spirit -- I'm sure they'll love it too.

Peggy McColl, [...]

Beautiful!, December 9, 2009
I just read this book to my 5 yr old....it was beautiful! I had tears rolling down my eyes!!! ... Read more

Editorial Review

As Little Cub and her family prepare to celebrate the most special day of the year, the curious young polar bear begins to wonder…
“Who invented Christmas?”
Mama’s answer only leads to more questions like “Is God more important than Santa?” So she and Little Cub head off on a polar expedition to find God and to see how he gave them Christmas. Along the way, they find signs that God is at work all around them. Through Mama’s gentle guidance, Little Cub learns about the very first Christmas and discovers that…
Jesus is the best present of all.
This enchanting tale provides the perfect opportunity to help young children celebrate the true meaning of Christmas and to discover how very much God loves them. ... Read more

Reviews

Excellent Read!, August 15, 2007
This is one of my new favorite reads for the Christmas season (or anytime, really)! IT has a sweet, warm message. I love finding books with a true Christian theme. Santa Clause and Frosty are great, and have a place in our traditions, but it's also very important to keep a focus on the reason we celebrate Christmas in the first place. I have read this book to 4 and 5-year-olds, who enjoyed it very much. We read it two or three times in one week! They loved it each time, and I loved reinforcing the wonderful spirit of the book. I HIGHLY recommend this for children ages 3-12 (and the adults who love them)!

Wonderful Christmas Gift, November 29, 2006
"Who 'vented Christmas? Was it Santa?" This book answers a child's questions with tenderness as a mother bear and her cub go looking for the giver of Christmas--not Santa, but God. There is no Santa bashing, however, when Mama says, "Santa Claus reminds us about many good things..." The mother and child find God in the natural world and in the hearts of people. Illustrated beautifully, this book is sure to become a Christmas classic.

Great for little ones about the true meaning of X-mas without spoiling "santa", December 22, 2006
Great book about the true meaning of Christmas. Lots of books do that, however, this one actual gives a good reason for Santa - other than "he's not real". Regardless of whether Santa is part your Christmas celebration, kids always hear about it. Illustrations are beautifully done. My 3 year-old loves this "bear book".

"God Gave Us Christmas" by Lisa Bergren, December 7, 2009
Lisa Bergren, author of "God Gave Us Love," has continued her insightful, much needed series with the bears in her new book, "God Gave Us Christmas," A beautiful compilation of the teaching of the Savior's birth, the importance of showing your children that God can be found in all things around them and a great book to answer the question of the importance of Santa Claus. This book teaches children how to find God everywhere they look, in all of His creation, and to have faith in Him without seeing Him.

Another very important aspect addressed in this wonderful book is the power of the Lord, in which He commands the water to freeze and glaciers to melt.

Many books do not question the importance of Santa Claus during the holiday season, however, "God Gave Us Christmas," does just that. By showing children that Santa is just an aspect of Christmas, helping to show generosity, the child is able to learn that the Savior Jesus Christ is the true meaning of Christmas. As a Christian parent that worries about my children confusing the commercialism of Christmas as the true meaning of the holiday, this important aspect of the story is welcoming.

In this book, the little cub is grateful for her mother's teaching of God. Every parent should be willing and happy to share the love of God and teach their children about the gift of salvation. Now their is this great book that allows us to do that. I encourage parents of young children, especially while in the midst of the Christmas season, to pick up this book, read it to your children and remind them of its many lessons.

This book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multanomah Publishing Group.

I cannot say enough good things about this book..., April 18, 2007
While no book is ever perfect, this one is pretty good. It brings the idea of why we celebrate Christmas into a story that is different and fresh, and when combined with a biblical account helps kids keep the facts in perspective. I particularly liked the fact that Christmas is tied to the coming of Christ in a way that reminds us of the value of the stories of "Santa" or "St. Nick" yet also emphasizes that the true gift is from God. We talk a lot about the coming of Christ, but many forget that He was sent by the Father. In her own way Bergren reminds us that God has given us an amazing gift in Jesus, and this is the perfect introduction to the idea of Jesus as our gift, not just because He came, but because He died and rose again.

Share Jesus with Your Kids, November 11, 2006
This is a wonderful story about how Mama Bear helps Little Cub find God and learn how He gave Christmas to the world. Beautiful illustrations and charming dialogue! Share this book with your children to show them how God gave Christmas and Jesus to them!

Keeping the Christ in Christmas, January 12, 2007
This is a wonderful book for helping young children understand where Santa fits in and what Christmas is about. I read it to my pre-K and Kindergarten Sunday School classes as well as my own children and the little ones loved it. My older son (8) wasn't so into it. It's really for small ones.

God Gave Us Christmas by Lisa T. Bergen, January 11, 2007
I bought 3 of this book, for my niece and nephews and one for my own children too. It is a great book for kids who are stuck on the only important thing at Christmastime being Santa. It has a wonderful story to teach kids about the real meaning of Christmas and the pictures are beautiful.

Wonderful story!!!, January 10, 2007
I gave this to my son who is 2.5 years old and he LOVES it! He has the book memorized now because he wants to read it every night. It is good to have a story book that takes the focus off of the commerial Christmas.

Meaning of Christmas: Jesus or Santa?, December 4, 2008
This book does a really great job of acknowledging the true reason we celebrate Christmas - Jesus' birth - while not downplaying any of the other holiday traditions our culture has become accustomed to. It does not say that Santa does not exist (for those fearful parents whose children still "believe") but suggests that Santa is a reminder of attributes that God cares about and wants us all to possess. The author goes further than saying "Christmas is about Jesus being born"; she also talks about who Jesus is and why God sent him to earth. I have a feeling this will become a Christmas Classic at our house - even if only because "mom" likes it! ... Read more

Editorial Review

That cold winter's night,

beneath the star's light...

...a Little One came for the world. ... Read more

Reviews

Lovely New Children's Story, October 13, 2004
It's a cold winter's night, and Kind Ox is nesting, all snug in his stable out of the bitter wind, when a visitor comes along. Old Dog. Kind Ox invites Old Dog into the stable where he will be protected from the harm of the storm, and soon more animals have joined the two of them. Stray Cat, and Small Mouse, to be exact. Then Tired Donkey comes along, carrying a woman, Mary, on his back, and a man, Joseph, at his side. Mary is weary, for she is about to have her baby, but there is no room at the inn, so Joseph is worried. But Kind Ox invites them in, and provides shelter for Mary as she gives birth to the baby Jesus, a group of animals around them.

ROOM FOR A LITTLE ONE is a lovely picture book that will paint a simple picture of how Jesus came to be for young children. The prose is extremely easy to understand for all ages, and the illustrations, depicting scenes of animals in the snow, and inside the warmth of the stable, will capture the hearts of parents, as well as their children. A wonderful holiday tale.

Erika Sorocco
Book Review Columnist for The Community Bugle Newspaper

A beautiful book, October 29, 2004
My 11 year old son, brought this home from the book fair at his school today. He was very proud to show me his purchase. We have already read it together with little brother 3 times now!
Jason Cockcroft is an amazing illustrator. His pictures are beautiful and peaceful, while detailed.
Room for a little one, is not long, but has such a beautiful message. It ends with "...a Little One came for the world."
This book is perfect for a bedtime story, or to be read on Christmas Eve, or morning. Our family highly recommends this book. We would give it a 6 if we could. It will be within reach all year long, not just at Christmas time.

A delightful twist on a historical tale!, October 30, 2004
About two thousand years ago, in the town of Nazareth, a miracle occurred. There were Shepherds, the Angels and, on Epiphany, the Wise Men.

In author Martin Waddell's version: This particular winter night is cold, and Kind Ox lies in his stable sheltered from the harsh bitter airs. He is snuggled in the warmth of his straw bed until Old Dog comes along in search of shelter and a warm place to rest his weary bones. Kind Ox invites him in. Not long after do more travelers arrive, also in need of shelter. Stray Cat, and Small Mouse, to be precise.

Then Tired Donkey arrives, leading Joseph along, as he carries Mary on his back. Mary is very tired and needed a place to stay. At each inn, the story was the same. There was no room for them.

"Where will my baby be born?" Mary asked.

Kind Ox invited Tired Donkey in. Mary gives birth to Jesus with the animals around them.

Room for a Little One: A Christmas Tale, is not only simply written and easy to understand, but is also exquisitely illustrated. This is a book your child will read everyday of the year!

Reviewed by Betsie

sweet story with realistic-looking animals, March 30, 2006
My daughter is 19 months old and loves this book, which was a surprise to me. She loves finding the mouse, which is very small and somewhat difficult to find. The animals are very real-looking, which is kinda eery, but very beautiful. My daughter enjoys pointing out Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus. It is definately a beautiful book with a neat story. A great christmas gift!

Excellent Book!!, November 16, 2006
I bought this last year for my son, who is now 6. He and I both love it. I have also read it to my Sunday School class (preschool) who were mesmerized by it. It is a must have book. I can't wait to read it with my children and class again this year.

My favorite Christmas story (other than the original), December 24, 2009
Four years ago at my first Book Fair, as a new children's librarian, I came across this very heart-warming book, "Room for a Little One," which epitomizes the deepest meaning of Christmas.

Please allow me to read this book to you. Please sit and get comfortable. It's cold outside. Kick off your shoes, tuck in your feet. Here, I'll share my throw with you. Hot chocolate? Good.

See, it's an over-sized book, with each page full to the brim with subdued color. No white margins. This is a full story. Martin Waddell and Jason Cockcroft use every inch to tell their version of the manger story.

"It was a cold winter's night. Kind Ox lay in his stable, close to the side of the inn."
There in the doorway appears a dog, backlighted with the glow of dusk.

"Old Dog came by. He stopped and looked into the stable. 'I need somewhere to rest,' said Old Dog. 'Come inside,' Kind Ox said. 'There's always room for a little one here.'"

Kind Ox, a pure white beast, is the gracious host, the one who does not turn away those in need. His actions, of course, parallel his owner. Artist Cockcroft paints the most dead-tired look in that dog's eyes, so reflective of almost unbearable weariness, perhaps reflective of the burden of sin we would like to set down.

When Stray Cat comes by, Old Dog promises not to chase her. Then in her turn Stray Cat promises not to harm Small Mouse. (Please note the use of particular adjectives for each critter, sobriquets for the types of humans in the world, types of burdens described so often in the Jesus stories, burdens which can be put down.) So they all sleep contentedly until the famous couple and their donkey come by. Kind Ox invites Tired Donkey in.

"'Where will my baby be born?' Mary asked. 'Come inside,' Kind Ox called to Tired Donkey. 'There's always room for a little one here.'"

With all the animals surrounding them, Jesus was born in the warmth of the stable.

"That cold winter's night, beneath the star's light...a Little One came for the world."

Such a simply told story, but so profound, with such implication.

A sweet story of Christmas, November 5, 2009
Room for a Little One: A Christmas Tale, written by Martin Waddell, is a simple, yet beautiful story of the Nativity.

The story starts out with Kind Ox lying in his warm stable. Old Dog comes by, asking for a place to rest. Kind Ox answers, "Come inside. There's always room for a little one here." They then, in turn, make room for Stray Cat and Small Mouse.

Last, along comes Tired Donkey, carrying Mary. Mary asks, "Where will my baby be born?"

Kind Ox answers, "Come inside. There's always room for a little one here." The story ends with, "That cold winter's night, beneath the star's light...a Little One came for the world."

The paintings by Jason Cockcroft make this book special by enhancing the text with their incredible, life-like detail.

What I Like: Everything. The text is very simple, yet powerful. And the illustrations are beautiful.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 4-8.

Christine M. Irvin - Christian Children's Book Review

A Retelling of the Christmas Story for Both Children and Adults, November 19, 2008
Often we forget that the innkeeper who allowed Mary and Joseph to use his stable did so from kindness, not from dismissal, or meanness as is sometimes depicted. Both the innkeeper and his ox, Kind Ox, give all that they have to give in that moment, just the warmth of a humble stable. As the ox rests in his stable one cold winter night, one by one he sees a stray animal weary with cold, and Kind Ox (The Holy Spirit) invites them to spend the night in his shelter, where there is no fear, only warmth, peace and love. The night wears on and eventually the tired donkey carrying Mary comes to the stable and is entreated to come inside, since "There's always room for a little one here."

This beautiful book reminds us that Our Lord works miracles through even the humblest, as Kind Ox displays the great love of the Holy Spirit, a love that is a foretaste of Heaven. The illustrations have that golden glow and hazy dreamlike quality that give the art a timeless feeling. A retelling of the Christmas story that both a little one and an adult will enjoy and ponder upon.

for all of us, November 28, 2007
This lovely little children's book is a simple and powerful metaphor for the Christmas season. Whatever your faith, or lack of, the message is universal. The illustrations are glowing and lovely. A good book for your child, other children, or for grown-ups in your life who need to stop the commercial frenzy and remember what the holiday is really about.

Perfect Christmas gift!, November 22, 2005
This is a beautiful book to expose young kids to the story of Jesus. The pictures are exquisitely detailed and very colorful. This book is sure to be a holiday favorite with my family! It would make a wonderful gift for your grandkids, neices, nephews, etc. Write a personal message on the inside of the front cover and it will be a wonderful Christmas keepsake for them. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Mr. Willowby's Christmas tree
Came by special delivery.
Full and fresh and glistening green--
The biggest tree he'd ever seen.

That was the trouble. The tree was so tall, it couldn't stand up straight in his parlor. Mr. Willowby asked his butler to chop off the top of the tree. What happens to the treetop? Where will it be for Christmas? Snuggle up with this story and follow along through a forest full of friendly creatures who get to share in a bit of Christmas joy.
... Read more

Reviews

My favorite christmas book, October 20, 2000
As a child of about 6 or 7, my parents got me Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree. I would make my mom read it to me over and over as well as hearing "Captain Kangaroo" read it every year on his show. Now, I am a 41 year old mother of three, and I still have my original copy, as well as copies for my three children and am ordering a copy for my brand new nephew. Reading Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree has become a family tradition at my house. Of course, I don't have to read it - I have been able to recit it word for word for years!! This is a wonderful "snuggle up with a child in your arms" book that you will enjoy reading for years. Maybe it will become a family tradition at your house too!

Wonderful story for all ages, May 15, 1999
I loved this book as a child and am still enchanted today! My children want me to read it year round. Five stars are not enough for this book. Not only is the story entertaining, but it teaches recyclying on a young childs level. If you want a book to pass down through many generations, I strongly recommend Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree!

A Childhood Treasure finally Found!, November 4, 2000
As many of the other reviewers, I loved this story as a child. I am one of 8 children, though, and as our childhood books were being given to us as adults, the only copy we owned went to one of my older sisters who originally owned it. For years the rest of us have been searching in vain to find copies for ourselves, and I was tickled pink today to discover that it has been re-printed! It is a classic tale of the spirit of Christmas that will forever be my favorite Christmas story. I have already emailed my siblings to let them know the good news, and I intend to get copies for my nieces and nephews this year! You'll be making a great choice if you select this book!

Mr Willowby Brings in the Holiday Season....., November 10, 2001
"Mr Willowby's Christmas tree/Came by special delivery./Full and fresh and glistening green-/The biggest tree he had ever seen." So big, in fact that when it stood in place in the parlor, it not only touched the ceiling but "bent like a bow." Mr Willowby realized that something must be done, and had his butler, Baxter, chop off the top. And what happens to that tree top, makes for a wonderful and endearing Christmas story..... Originally published in 1963, Mr Willowby's Christmas Tree is just as fresh and magical today, as it was all those years ago. Robert Barry's rhyming text is lyrical and joyous, and complemented by his delightful and expressive artwork. Perfect for youngsters 3-8, this is a charming and simple treasure of a book that really captures the holiday spirit, and is a lovely read-aloud story the entire family will want to share again and again, year after year.

Delightful story, December 11, 2004
How happy Mr. Willowby is to have his Christmas tree deliverd, but alas, he finds it is too tall. Trimming the top creates another tree for someone and so this continues. A chain of events....many are made happy by the too tall tree as it is trimmed and trimmed. It is a delightful story to read aloud to young and old. It belongs in everyone's collection of Christmas storybooks. This was recommended to me by a dear friend several years ago. Thank you Kathie.

My favorite children's book of all time., February 5, 1999
I am 29 years old and have never forgotten the story of Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree. I cherished the book as a child and have a special place in my heart for it still today. This book is enjoyable to read any time of year not only at Christmas. I enjoy giving hardcover versions of my favorite childhood stories as treasured gifts. This book deserves more than 5 stars. I do not wish to give a summary of this story, but encourage you to please read and ENJOY!!!

What a Wonderful Book, April 16, 2004
I just received this book, I had never heard of it and one day I was cruising amazon like I do just about everyday and I came across this book. Based upon the reviews I decided to order it and see for myself. It's a wonderful story, I love how that one Christmas tree wound up being a part of so many peoples and animals christmas. It starts off with Mr Willowby having his Christmas tree delivered and the tree is too tall for the room .So the butler cuts off the top and gives it to the upstairs maid for her to use as her Christmas tree, the tree is too tall for her also , so she cuts off the top and the gardener takes it home to be his tree ,and so on and so on it goes until the very last little tip winds up in a mouses house. It is a very nice enjoyable story for both children and adults, nicely illustrated ,and it just makes you feel good. One of the nicest Christmas stories I have read in a long time.

A Christmas Tradition, December 23, 2000
Each year when my family is able to be together, we curl up around the christmas tree and read Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree. It has become a family tradition and one that I cherish, even as an adult.

We were so concerned about this book going out of publication and to know that it is being sold again is wonderful - If you are looking for a story you all can share, year after year, this is the one!

It has seen us through over thirty years and is still going strong!

Best Childrens Christmas book Ever!, January 14, 2000
This is the best Childrens Christmas book ever written. We have been reading this book every Christmas for the past thirty years. It is a delightful and utterly Charming Christmas story.

Charming, endearing, and timeless!, February 16, 2008
This has always been my favorite Christmas Book (just edging out "A Charlie Brown Christmas" by a glowing-red nose!). I'm happy to say that I own an original first printing of both books, but it's "Willowby" that I continue to purchase, year after year, for my friends and their children.

The charm of this story lies in the "one person's discards are another person's treasures" category. The oversufficient tree that old man Willowby brings into his mansion is snipped on top to clear his cathedral ceiling, and every recipient into whose hands the pruned remnant falls must perform the same whittling fix to adapt the orphaned fir to his own, progressively more spartan, hovel. Passing from maidservant to gardener to a scavenging bear and other various critters, after smaller and smaller sprigs make the rounds throughout the countryside near Willowby's estate, the last one eventually ends up with a family of mice who just happen to live in Mr. Willowby's wall! Thus, one huge tree is inadvertently able to make everyone's Christmas a bit brighter! Joy to the world!

Robert Barry's verses are easily read, and are exquisitely enhanced by the accompanying artwork -- especially the portrayal of the Benjamin Rabbit family. Too cute! While "Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree" is no doubt a children's story, at Christmas aren't we really ALL children? And what better way to enjoy one's Yuletide holiday than with a delightful, uplifting tale where everyone wins? ... Read more

Editorial Review

Called one of America's favorite Christmas stories, and now a classic television movie, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever has been a favorite of young readers the world over since 1972. Funny, memorable, and outrageous, it is the story of a family of incorrigible children who discover the Christmas story for the first time and help everyone else rediscover its true meaning. ... Read more

Reviews

The Best Christmas Book Ever, July 11, 2002
Here's a simple, enchanting tale. It's warm and funny and thoroughly unpredictable. It's published in a short and skinny book in large type and, assuming you can tear yourself away from the story, it can be read in small spurts.

The Herdmans are absolutely and without question the worst kids "in the entire history of the world." They are guilty of evey unmentionable childhood crime and have thought of more than a few original ones. When they take over the church Christmas pageant (although none of them has ever attended church, much less heard the Christmas story before), the first Christmas becomes new and real in some pretty surprising ways.

Nevermind that the publishers call this a children's story. It isn't. The vision it has to offer is hilarious yet deeply touching in a profound yet innocent way.

Stock up on copies for Christmas gifts to teachers and friends. I'd give one to the friend who wails that Christmas has become too commercial or to the harried mother of a lively brood or to someone who dreads the holiday. And keep one for yourself because it's almost as much fun each time you read it.

Merry Christmas!

One of the great joys of motherhood--, November 22, 2000
is the opportunity to revisit your childhood.

First, Dr. Suess, then The Saggy Baggy Elephant, and now the Herdmans.

I have loved reading since I was five years old. One of my most important goals is to pass that love of books on to my two daughters. I'm no expert, but sharing books that make me happy with them seems to be a good way to start.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is a story about THOSE kids. You know--the ones you avoid sitting next to at Pizza Hut. The ones who show up at church once or twice a quarter, when someone brings them. The ones you feel sorry for but secretly compare to your own kids to make yourself feel good about how well-mannered, smart, attractive your kids are.

THOSE kids, the Herdmans, show us that Christmas isn't just about our own families and our safe, secure homes, but about THOSE kids--the unwanted, nasty, obnoxious, dirty kids with whom we don't want our kids associating.

The point of the story is that we should open our eyes and see them as Jesus saw the little children and open our heart to love even the barely lovable.

This story is one that will grow with your children. As they mature, you can help them get more and more out of this story. It's definitely a repeat from one holiday season to the next. I would recommend getting the hardback version so that it will last longer.

Great fun for all ages!, December 6, 1999
My Dad and his wife sent my family this book for Christmas one year, and I read it at bedtime to my 7 year old son and 9 year old daughter. Although we were only going to read a chapter every night, they begged me to keep reading, and I didn't want to stop, either. The Herdman children give us a fresh perspective on the traditional Christmas story, and show us that anyone can be touched by the true meaning of Christmas. A story that young and old can relate to, it made us all laugh and some of us cry. I plan to read this book every year,out loud. A wonderful, touching story. Only one word of warning - there are a handful of "naughty" words in this story, since the Herdman children are a bit rude. You can substitute something more suitable as you read to children, but don't pass by this great story because of it.

The best children's book I've ever read!, March 2, 2000
I didn't read this book until I was 32 years old and it made my day! I laughed so hard that I thought that I was going to hurt something. I loved the Herdmans because I grew up with a lot of kids like them. I now know why this is a classic that will continue on long after I'm gone. Ms. Robinson did a fantastic job of incorperating humor in many, many poignant moments. I laughed reading every page until the last two or three when the tears came. You couldn't help but be deeply touched by how, for a few brief moment, the Herdmans cleaned up their act to tell the wonderful story of Christmas in their own special way. I had the opportunity to spend a day with Ms. Robinson last year and let me tell you all, it was the experience of a lifetime. She's a fantastic lady who is absolutely incredible with children.

The Best Christmas Book Ever., December 16, 2001
I've been collecting children's Christmas books for seventeen years, since my oldest child was a baby, adding a few more to the collection each year, but without a doubt this is the best one I have. I first read it when my oldest was six and I've re-read it every Christmas since, and not only have I never gotten tired of it, but I can't imagine Christmas without it.

The story is about a church Christmas pageant in which the Herdmans, the wildest, toughest kids in town, move in and take over the main parts. Mary smokes cigars. The Wise Men steal. And the Angel of the Lord is more likely to smack the shepherds in the teeth than bring good news. Everyone in the church is scandalized, of course, but trying to fit the totally unsuitable Herdmans into their Biblical roles makes for one hilarious story after another. When you can get an adult and a six year old laughing out lout at the same things, you know you've got a special children's book.

If all this book had was its humor, it would be a treat, but it is a lot more than that. Under all the great jokes is another more moving story. The Herdman kids are hearing the story of Jesus' birth for the first time, and their reactions � shock that anyone would put a baby in a feeding trough, fury at Herod's attempt to kill the baby, amazement at the angel's miraculous appearance to the shepherds � renew the meaning of the story for those of us who have heard it hundreds of times. Little by little they become more and more effected by the story and it changes them.

In the end, this is not just a funny book, but a powerful story of redemption. Through most of the book, I can't stop laughing, but by the end I am always reading through tears, even after having read it eleven times.

4th graders from Raleigh,NC think that the Herdmens are wild, March 5, 1999
We think the Best Christmas Pageant Ever was outrageous and crazy. Anybody who loves Christmas stories will love this book.The Best Christmas Pageant Ever was a great book. If the Herdmans were alive, they would be the worst kids in the history of all time. The Herdmans dressed like Indians, and they smoked cigars. They were so mean they had poison ivy bushes. Beware of the cat! People say that the Herdmans went up to the mountains and caught a bobcat. The cat has one eye and a broken tail and one short leg. Once Claude Herdman emptied the whole first grade in three minutes flat when Claude took the Herdmans cat to Show and Tell. He did not feed the cat for two days, and the cat was already mad. Then Claude carried the cat in school in a box. The Herdmans invaded a helpless church to steal food. Then they take over the Christmas pageant of the season. In this book The Best Christmas Pageant Ever you never know what the Herdmans will do next!

The Best Christmas BOOK Ever!!, August 3, 2005
Although one of the older books,"The Best Christmas Pageant Ever"is a great book to read.
Imogene and the rest of her family [The Herdmans]
are the worst kids ever known.They are so bad the teachers dont even let them stay back a year in school.
So no one can believe it when they get mixed up with the church christ mas pageant.
As you can imagine this turns out to be ca hilarious story and you never know whats going tohappen next.A great book for ages 8 +.(melanie age 11)

A review of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, May 20, 2005
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is one of my favorite books I have ever read because of the Hermans. They lie, curse, burn stuff, and all the bad things one can do. One time they set fire to a building accidentally and when the firemen came the Herman's stole their donuts. They hear about a Christmas play with refreshments, so they join. So all seven crazy kids join and the play becomes a complete catastrophe. They don't even know the story of how Jesus was born so they had to tell them all of it. The Hermans all have the important parts in the play. The Hermans are so crazy they brought their one eyed cat to school which ripped and attacked everyone. This is a great book about how 7 crazy kids learn the true meaning of Christmas.

A great Story for the whole family, April 9, 2004
I first read this story when I was in gradeschool. Actually the teacher read it to us. Over 10 years later when I saw it at a used book store, I instantly picked up a copy and I don't have any kids. I re-read it myself and will read it every Christmas Season. It's about the Herdmans and the Christmas Pageant. The Herdmans are the worst kids in the history of the world and they end up as part of the pageant.

The pageant is about the Birth of Jesus which the Herdmans know nothing about. It's a very funny story throughout and a very touching story at the end. You don't really have to be Christian to enjoy this little story. I'm not and I love the story. I definitely recommend it to almost every family as a story to be read year after year. As your kids grow, perhaps they can read it to you.

This is one of the most heart warming Christmas stories ever, September 12, 1999
As a child my mother would read this story every Christmas. As one of my favorite books growing up, there were some years that we would beg mother to read it two or three times per season. Now, at age 23, it remains a family tradition for the family to gather around the Christmas tree and listen to mother read this book. It is a story that truly lasts through the ages. ... Read more

Editorial Review

In The Berenstain Bears and The Joy of Giving Brother and Sister Bear can't wait for Christmas and all the presents they'll open. But during the Christmas Eve pageant, something special happens! The Bear cubs learn a very valuable lesson about the joy of giving to others. ... Read more

Reviews

The Cubs learn about giving, November 29, 2010
The Bible reference for The Berenstain Bears and the Joy of Giving, written and illustrated by Jan and Mike Berenstain, is, "It is more blessed to give than to receive [Acts: 20:35], and aptly so, as the story is about giving.

It's Christmastime in Bear Country. A few days before the big day, brother and Sister are each given $10 to spend on Christmas presents for others. They buy just one gift each: Brother buys for Sister and visa versa. Neither gift costs $10 so each cub has money left over for their selves. Although they bought gifts for each other, they made sure they had money left over they could keep. That's not what Christmas is about, but Mama and Papa don't say anything to the cubs about it.

On Christmas Eve, Brother and Sister take part in their church's Christmas play, dressed as one of the Wise Men's camels, Sister as the front end, Brother in the rear. During the play, when the Wise Men give their presents to the Baby Jesus, Brother and Sister realize the reason for giving Christmas presents: The presents we give to each other on Christmas are to symbolize the gifts the Wise Men gave to Baby Jesus.

From that moment on, they have a change of heart in relation to gifts. On Christmas morning, instead of rushing to open their own gifts, they take pleasure in exchanging gifts with each other first. Later that day, on the way to church, they stop to donate their leftover money to a charitable organization.

The illustrations throughout the book are bright and colorful and a bit cartoon-like as are most books in the series.

What I Like: I enjoy reading any and all books in the Berenstain Bears series. It's fun to see what the Bear family is up to in each episode and how we can relate the lessons they learn to our own lives.

What I Dislike: However, having said that, I must add that this book fell a bit short on the story end. Although it was good that the cubs discovered the joy of giving, I think it's unrealistic to think they would both have the exact same thought at the exact same moment. And, it seems unlikely they would come to such a life-changing conclusion simply by performing a play they had rehearsed many times. I think a more realistic storyline would have had them helping at a local homeless shelter or food panty, or organizing a toy drive for needy families to illustrate that there are those in this world that have very little and those of us who have more should be willing, and happy, to give of what we have. That's the joy of giving.

Overall Rating: Good.

Age Appeal: 4-8.

Christine M. Irvin - Christian Children's Book Review

Great Book to Help Understand the Christmas Gift Giving Tradition, October 31, 2010
The Berenstain Bears and the Joy of Giving is an excellent book to read this Christmas season. Understanding the purpose of gift giving is a tough concept for children young and old (and many adults).

Brother and Sister Bear receive money from their grandparents. They use this money to purchase gifts for others. Then each quietly plot how they can purchase small gifts to allow themselves to keep as much money as possible. After being in a church Christmas program, they understand that the reason why we give gifts is because at the First Christmas Jesus was our gift from God. The shepherds and wisemen also brought gifts to the Baby King. Afterwards the Bear Siblings give the rest of their money to the poor.

Momma C's Thoughts: This is a longer than usual Berenstain Bear book. At 38 pages, this book is geared toward older children (ages 4-8). Even at that, our kiddos (ages 2-6) stayed seated for the whole book but know that most of the concepts went over the youngest's understanding. I also liked how the book used the example of "bell ringers" or the Salvation Army. This allowed us to discuss the importance of remembering those in need and who the people are who stand outside stores this time of year. Activities and questions are also included at the end of the book which are very helpful for parents to further the learning.

Thank you to Zonderkidz for giving me the opportunity to review this book.
... Read more

Editorial Review

The gentle beauty of the story of the first Christmas is now available as a board book. With a simple, lyrical text and radiant artwork, this book is perfect for the youngest child to be a part of the wonder of the Nativity. ... Read more

Reviews

Wonderful Christmas story for the whole family, December 2, 1998
If you are looking for a book that tells the real story of Christmas in a style that all ages can comprehend, this one is it. It focuses on the animals in the stable, the shepherds, the star, Joseph and Mary. The last line of the book says it all for me: "I am the baby, asleep in the hay, and I am the reason for Christmas day."

Great first Christmas book!, December 19, 2004
I bought this book for my one-year-old son. As another reader mentioned, it doesn't really explain Christmas, but then again, it's anyone's guess how much of an explanation a one-year-old understands anyway. In every other way, the book is excellent: the simple poetry (based partly on the old carol "The Friendly Beasts") sounds touching and beautiful when read aloud; the illustrations are warm and appealing; even the layout of the book, with large letters on one page and a single bold image on the facing page, is elegantly designed and well-adapted to young children. I love to look at the illustrations: Mary looks joyful and loving, the animals look friendly but not too "cutesy," and (rarest of all) Baby Jesus actually looks like a scrawny newborn, not a chubby one-year-old, as most people draw the Nativity scene. I recommend this as your child's first Christmas book.

A fantastic way to share the Christmas story with children, December 27, 1998
Christmas in the Manger is a pat-and-peek book. It lets young children get involved in the story of the birth of Jesus in a very personal way by letting them touch the animals in the manger and the gifts the wise men bring the baby Jesus. The simple rhymes appeal to young children. It is intriguing how such a profound story can be related with such simplicity and easily understood by toddlers. Every Christian home should have a copy!

So well done, December 19, 2002
This is the first time I have taken the time to write an Amazon review although I regularly use those written by others. I went to the book store to look at several book Christmas books including those that introduce the Nativity story and found this one to be excellent for my 2.5 year old. As mentioned in the other reviews, the text is rhythmic and simple, the pictures are large and easily discernable and it is just a perfect 1st introduction to the Nativity story. My daughter is "reading" it back to me already.

A Great Children's Christmas Story, October 10, 2000
I can't think of a better way to share the miracle of birth of Christ with my children. This is an excellent children's book.

Absolutely adorable!!!, December 6, 2002
This book has the cutest little drawings of baby Jesus depicted so sweetly! It's written in simple poem fashion that will draw the attention of your little one, all the while expressing that even the stable animals were an important part in the birth of our Lord and Savior! A must have for every family with children or grandchildren. Don't hesitate...BUY THIS BOOK! <><

Christmas in the Manger, December 5, 2002
My 2.5 year old son was given this book for Christmas. It is a wonderful way to introduce children to the concept of "baby Jesus." It's simple, rhythmic like a poem and the illustrations aren't overdone. I read him the book then he takes it and reads the first line back to me on each page (I am the Star, I am the Donkey, etc.) I highly recommend it to parents wanting to introduce the reason for Christmas in a very simplistic way.

Very Sweet, February 27, 2002
My little girl has loved this story. It has been read and read for the last 3 years. It is a beautiful and simple telling of the Christmas story.

Best Christmas Book for Babies & Toddlers!, January 5, 2004
This is a wonderful board book! Not too many words on a page, but very fun with shiny stars, etc. They also make a touch and feel version, but it's not as sturdy. This is one of my favorite baby Christmas gifts!

Christmas in the Manager Review by Mom of 16month, January 30, 2008
Great book for little ones. I have a 16th month old boy who loves this book and helped us focus on more than just Santa and presents for the holiday season. Lovely pictures and good text make this a reading pleasure for everyone. ... Read more

Editorial Review

It’s holiday time, and Room One is doing lots of fun things to celebrate.
Like making elf costumes! And singing joyful songs! Only, how can Junie B. enjoy the festivities when Tattletale May keeps ruining her holiday glee? And here is the worst part of all! When everyone picks names for Secret Santa, Junie B. gets stuck with Tattletale you-know-who! It’s enough to fizzle your holiday spirit! Hmm . . . or is it? Maybe, just maybe, a Secret Santa gift is the perfect opportunity to give May exactly what she deserves.


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Reviews

I Just Love This Wonderful Book!, November 30, 2005
Junie B., First Grader: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells! (P.S. So Does May) is the absolutely newest book in the Junie B. Jones series and it's full of holiday cheer.

It's the holiday / Christmas season for Junie B. and her friends and classmates. Her class has been chosen to wear jingle-bell hats and perform carols. Only here's the thing --- May's spying and peeping and tattle-taling threatens to ruin it all for Junie B. Jones, or as May calls her, just Junie Jones. Things get even "worser" for Junie B. when she's chosen to be May's Secret Santa. Junie B. has a plan for a gift that will really spite May, but as she sees May's joy at the holiday season, she begins to wonder about her plan.

This is a great book that shows the true spirit of the season. Readers will feel what Junie B. feels as the events unfold. and the ending is very satisfying.


The only thing I miss about the newer books is the letter from Barbara Park at the end. This was always a nice touch and it feels like a small something is missing for it not to be there.

Best Junie B. yet!, November 22, 2005
Our family loves the Junie B. Jones books. So when this newest one came out, we bought it right away. I think this is the best Junie B. book so far. It teaches about choices that children make and what is really important. The ending is great! My 6 year old and 4 year old loved it!

A really funny and great book!, July 5, 2006
This is what my 8 year old daughter, Emily, says about this book. "Great job. I have a way to prove that I love your series of Junie B. books. I have every single book in the whole entire series so far. I even have Junie B. First Grader Aloha-ha-ha.I've never had a better book than this one!"

Good Read, November 15, 2005
I wish school had been this much fun for me. This is a very easy read and my nine-year-old daughter loved it.

Junie B. Jones Jingle Bells, Batman Smell!( P.S. So Does May), January 29, 2006
Barbara Park has done it again. She has created another funny book with Junie B up to her tricks. Junie B. also learns her lesson (sometimes the hard way). I read this book to my students at Christmas time. They all laughed out loud and really got into the story. Since we also draw names for our Christmas party and have to buy a gift for others, they really related to the story and couldn't wait to see how it ended. Will May and Junie B. become friends? You have to read this book to your class and kids at home to find out. Each day my students couldn't wait for me to read another chapter to find out what crazy things Junie B. was up too and what funny things she would do to try to get her way. In part of the story Junie B. and her class lead the school in Christmas songs, my class put on the Christmas play this year at our school. One of my students even wanted to sing Jingle Bells the way Junie B. did. Barbar Park helps children relate to her stories with Junie B. Jones unique personality style. I think this story of Junie B. Jones really got my students wanting to read more of her stories. Since we have gotten back from Chrismas break, most of them (especially the girls) are coming back from the library with Junie B. Jones books. I highly recommend this book for second graders. They love the book from beginning to end. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Award winner Robert Sabuda brings Clement Clarke Moore's classic tale of The Night Before Christmas to life in this festive pop-up edition, sure to become a perennial family favorite. ... Read more

Reviews

Captivating Pop-Up Book!, November 20, 2002
"The Night Before Christmas," is Mr. Sabuda's pop-up version of Clement Clarke Moore's classic tale of Santa's visit on Christmas Eve. The phrasing has been altered; still the story is the same, except mice play the human roles. It is a delightful rendition that will appeal to both the young and old alike.

Different from any other pop-up book I've seen, the backgrounds in Mr. Sabuda's books are generally solid in nature with white pop-up's that are often accented with color. This makes a wonderful contrast of positive and negative space that is unusual, and unexpected yet, striking. In this book, the artist has added more color to the pop-ups than in his earlier holiday works. Creatively conceived, the detailed execution of the pop-ups is what REALLY captures the viewer's attention, and carries this book. They are SO fantastic I have to continually remind myself it is only paper. For instance, when Santa calls out to the reindeer, "No, Dasher! Now, Dancer! Now, Prancer and Vixen! . . ." all eight reindeer literally fly off the page in sleigh formation with Santa trailing behind. It's brilliant! In addition, the finale is gorgeous! It is nearly an all-white scene with Santa in his sleigh, bidding adieu to a quaint little neighborhood down below. The backdrop displays a snow-capped mountain with a pull-tab that allows the viewer to draw Santa and his reindeer across the sky, "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a goodnight."

"The Night Before Christmas," is a hardbound book that measures 8 �" x 8 �" x 1 �". Highly imaginative, both conceptually and artistically this book will make a valued addition to any Christmas collection. CAREFUL, young one's will be mesmerized by the pop-up action, and will want to grab. Probably best for children four-years and up.

Editorial Review

Readers young and old are invited into the enchanting world of Mary Engelbreit in this sparkling edition of Clement C. Moore's classic poem. It is the night before Christmas, in a house so cozy and colorful, so filled with expectation, so dusted with Christmas magic that only this beloved illustrator could have created it. Shhh. A mouse is asleep in its snug den and children are dreaming as sugarplum fairies flutter around their bed. Then there's the jingle of bells. . . .

For this merry celebration of Christmas, Mary Engelbreit has filled every page with bewitching details, rich color, and memorable characters. These include a bevy of mischievous elves, an adorable mouse, and a lovable, bespectacled Santa. The images in Mary's joyous vision will bring discovery and delight to generations of readers.

Reviews

Wonderful Illustrations, December 9, 2004
I love the illustrations of Mary Engelbreit, but actually it was our 2 year old son who picked out this book. Hour after hour, day after day, he crawls into our laps and has us read to him. This is his favorite book, which isn't bad because we love it too. The pictures are detailed, full of little surprises, and warm and delightful.

This version of the story has been so beautifully illustrated, I never tire of looking at it. (Mary Engelbreit, Jan Brett, and Tasha Tudor have all done a wonderful job of illustrating their own renditions of this classic tale by Clement Moore.)

We bought the DVD for our son for Christmas, and it's also wonderful. Our son watches it over and over.

Buy This Book for Your Family., December 16, 2005
My husband wanted a copy of The Night Before Christmas to read to my daughter. I decided to purchase this version of the book because of the wonderful reviews about the illustrations. The illustrations are bold, colorful and beautiful. My 12 month old daughter's eyes lit up when my husband began reading this book to her. She is mesmerized by the pictures. I would give this book as a gift.

Beautiful book., October 15, 2003
I am a huge Engelbreit fan, and I just love this book. Every page is dazzling. My two year old loves it as well; he just gets lost in every illustration. He points to this and that and just can't get enough of just LOOKING. Engelbreit's bright colors and attention to detail just shine in this book. They just don't come any better than this!

Great Christmas book for the kids!, March 10, 2007
Beautiful illustrations. The kids loved this on Christmas eve. It could easily be a heirloom passed down from generation to generation

one for our collection, December 27, 2005
This is my favorite version of this poem - we have a few, but this tops them all. It's an easy read (we have some versions which are too wordy) and the illustrations are enchanting. It will be a tradition to read together each year.

Beautiful and enchanting, December 11, 2004
I wanted to get The Night Before Christmas for my three year old son, who's just starting to really understand about the magic of Christmas this year, and hoping to begin the family tradition of reading this story every Christmas eve before bedtime. When I saw that Mary Engelbreit was the illustrator, I just knew this was the version to get, and I couldn't be happier! The pictures are so beautifully done, my son loves picking out all the little details she's incorporated into each page-he just ooo's and awe's with excitement over the gorgeous pictures! A wonderfully done book with an added enjoyment to an already special Christmas tradition.

A family heirloom in the making!, December 1, 2006
There are many different printings of Clement C. Moore's THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS. However, none is as beautifully illustrated as this edition by Mary Engelbreit. Engelbreit has taken the beloved holiday classic, and put a spin on it all her own. Using bright colors, she has created a winter wonderland that takes us through the home of a little mouse, whose house is decorated with various baubles, from jewelry to food, and even pencil stubs. From there we see various depictions of children sleeping in their beds, sugarplum fairies flitting about as they dream; Jolly Old Saint Nick, accompanied by a slew of elves, as he arrives by sleigh to leave gifts for each little boy and girl within the house, and much more. Readers will be delighted to see that Engelbreit has not forgotten the eight tiny reindeer - from Dasher to Dancer, Prancer to Vixen, Comet and Cupid, and Donder and Blitzen - each with their own characteristics, from eye color, to fur color, and even to various decorations adorning their antlers.

Clement C. Moore's THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS will always be a classic around the holidays. But now that Mary Engelbreit has decided to embellish the Christmas poem with her illustrations, the poem takes on a whole new life. One of imagination and wonder that will please all readers, as they take in the gorgeous illustrations, and share this classic tale with friends and relatives of all ages. A family heirloom in the making!

Erika Sorocco

UGH -- illustrations are awful!, November 25, 2007
I ordered this book based on the glowing reviews of its illustrations. Well, the book arrived yesterday, and I was hugely disappointed. The illustrations are just horrible. They are way too "cutesy" and overly colorful -- completely at odds with the old-fashioned, nostalgic feeling conjured up by the poem. I enjoy detailed illustrations, but here it is overkill -- each page is crammed with way too much detail. The pages look messy, and my two-year-old feels confused when he looks at them. But worst of all, a crew of overly-cutesy (or just plain ugly!) elves appears on every page. They clutter up the pages and make the illustrations confusing. I will DEFINITELY look for a different, more classic version of this book.

A classic to marvel at, January 16, 2007
I loved this book! Its content is timeless. The magic of Christmas will never die with this book in the house, held where it can be brought out each year and read again and again to celebrate the joy of the season it commemorates.

Great great book, December 2, 2005
The pictures are amazingly bright and vibrant and cheerful. I looked at several books all illustrated but different people. My son is two so I wanted to get one that had exactly the right illustrations. This one is the one I ultimately choose. The pictures really are great, and my son will sit and flip thru the book again and again just looking at the pictures. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Beautiful paintings by Eloise Wilkin and inspiring text, make this story of the birth of Jesus one to share again and again. ... Read more

Reviews

Thank GOD!, August 30, 2008
I teach Kindergarten at a Catholic school. This is the perfect book to tell about the birth of Jesus. It has beautiful illustations and the words engage the listener. You will love it!

Still Love The Christmas Story, December 10, 2008
When I was a little girl, my mom bought The Christmas Story book that was in circulation in the 70's. I remember closely looking at the pictures, loving the beautiful colors. The copy I had showed Mary on the cover.

I bought this book for my two year old and was thrilled to see that even though the cover illustration had changed, the story AND the illustrations on the inside were exactly what I remembered from my own copy years ago.

My daughter really loves this book, and I enjoy reading it to her. Would highly recommend.

Special, October 20, 2010
This was a gift for my infant granddaughter. Her mom read the story to her often. According to her mom, she 'enjoyed' the story, and was quiet when it was read to her. Amazing! Highly recommended.

a good story, January 18, 2009
the book arrived on time and is a good story. bought it for my 2-year-old and will replace it with a higher quality copy when she is older. no complaints, though.

Grandfathers Christmas Gift, January 17, 2009
I bought the book for my granddaughters for christmas. they loved the books and I am sure will cherish them for years to come. who knows, they may even pass them down, generation to generation.

Christmas in Louisiana

Another Christmas Story, December 25, 2007
I purchased 15 of these books. They were given out to a group of EC kids that I got to play Santa Claus for during an off site enrichment party for the kids that was held at our Church.

The books arrived on time (all 15 in one delivery!!)and in "brand new condition".

I anticipate doing business with Amazon again.

Richard G
... Read more

Reviews

Christmas Fun Mad Libs, January 15, 2009
I remember playing this as a kid. It is still a lot of fun and great laughs.

Ha-Ha-Ha-Ha!, April 26, 2000
Mad Libs are HILARIOUS-- this collection will truly get you in the X-mas Spirit! ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED!!!!, January 6, 2010
I was extremely SHOCKED to see no reviews on this BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED version of "THE Night Before Christmas".... A Treasure to pass down through the generations... HEIRLOOM QUALITY!!!! I'd ordered a copy for my grandson and was so impressed I had to order one for myself... I guess there are certain things we NEVER OUT-GROW!!!!

This version is a treasure far beyond the words., March 6, 2010
My son is five and already an authority on Santa. We looked inside many books on The Night Before Christmas and he simply did not get into the pictures. Then we found this version illustrated by an artist who must have Santa in his heart. My son loves the full-page images of Santa and all the smaller images he calls "picture windows". He enjoys telling the story in his own words as he looks at each picture. I love the way the illustrations focus on evoking key sensations that add to the heart of the story. Thank you Mr. Tom Browning. You have made this story a treasure far beyond the words!

The Night Before Christmas, February 1, 2010
i bought this book for my daughter,long grown and married. she was delighted; it brought back happy memories for both of us. the coloring and the delightful pictures are unsurpassed. This is the most charming edition ever; everyone needs a copy, just to make a happy day, even in July.

Beautiful book, December 14, 2010
I bought this book only seeing the cover, and had searched all over the web trying to find pictures from the inside. Other "Night Before Christmas" books on Amazon have a sneak peek of the inside, but this one did not. The other books were not quite the style I was looking for and I only bought it because of one review that said it was a beautifully illustrated book, that Santa must be part of the artist, and I would have to fully agree. The pictures look like paintings on canvas, with brush strokes visible, and there is a sense of magic to it. Definately not your typical illustrations in my opinion. This book will be cherished by our family for all of our years to come, and read every Christmas Eve.

The Night Before Christmas, September 27, 2010
Love it Beautiful illustrations!!! A book for all children and adults to start a Christmas tradition reading to your family! ... Read more