‘Tis the season for reading picture books, eating sweets and enjoying time with loved ones. These four delights will be perfect for sharing with young readers.
The Littlest Christmas Tree by Jane Chapman, Published by Little Tiger
A wonderfully endearing tale of one little bear’s Christmas tree! Cubby, Dad and their neighbours are out hunting for their perfect trees to decorate when one chooses Cubby! Taking all the trees home by sled is hard work for Daddy but he manages to get everyone and their tree home. Cubby loves talking to the tree and decorating it but when the full day of festivities is over, it is a sad time but Daddy plants all the trees together so they can be used again next year! It’s such a heartwarming tale and one truly understood by families. Jane’s illustrations are soft and wonderful to enjoy.
One Snowy Christmas Eve by Marc Bratcher and Korky Paul, Published by UCLan Publishing
This is a proper festive, feel-good story, with a bit of a twist. One night a man had an idea and as he set to see this through, he ran into some hurdles but the townsfolk all came out and helped in every way possible. From attaching ski’s to the wheelchair, to dressing the man in warm woolly clothing and to helping him find a strong set of animals pull him along while he pops presents around. Sound familiar? This is a charming, rhyming story for a new generation of believers. Korky Paul has brought Jo’s to life with his widely loved illustrations.
Elves on Strike by Nicola Edwards and Pauline Gregory, Published by Little Tiger
In the last remaining days until Christmas, the elves are feeling stressed and overworked, so they quit, leaving Santa’s workshop empty. The reindeer trainers follow, the gift wrappers until just one elf is left. When a desperate plea arrives, she heads straight to Santa for help. Santa steps up and offers more help to his elves in order to save Christmas. An absolute joy to read with plenty of lift the flaps hiding extra surprises for the reader. Parents will relate to wrapping odd shaped gifts and feeling overworked and children will love the sneak peek behind the scenes up north.
Mr Santa by Jarvis, Published by Walker Books
This is an enchanting story of one child’s curiosity about Mr Santa. When a child wakes on Christmas Eve to discover Santa in their room, they begin with a simple, “Is it you” question, followed by dozens more! This child has so many questions for Santa and with each one, the readers smile will widen. It is exactly what someone young would ask- the relevant and the entirely random. My particular favourite is “Mr Santa, is your belly button inny or out?”. Beautifully illustrated, this is one to savour and enjoy slowly. I wonder what questions would spring to your mind!
I am a primary school teacher, turned librarian. I am Children’s Librarian for Suffolk Libraries, a job I adore!
I read constantly and have more books than bookshelves, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
I celebrate reading every day at work I am currently Vice Chair on the National Executive Committee for the Federation of Children’s Book Groups!
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My Shelves Are Full 