✰✰✰✰½ As Georgie and his Papa search for the perfect Christmas tree, Georgie receives the devastating news that Santa might not be able to visit this year. All he wants is a new pair of ice skates, but his hopes are dashed. He's no longer in the mood to decorate the tree or celebrate Christmas. Before sending Georgie to his room, his mother reminds him that Christmas is about more than just gifts. As he sulks in his room, Georgie comes up with an idea. With a little thread, some red cloth, and a new resolve, Georgie gets to work creating Christmas surprises for all.
The Bottom Line: Adams takes the reader back to a simpler time with this series of historical fiction picture books based on tales told by her father about growing up on a Pennsylvania farm in the 1920s. In this third installment, Georgie learns about the true meaning of Christmas. Charming illustrations enhance the nostalgia for a time long past. Read this with your child ages 4 - 8 on Christmas Eve.
Details: The Santa Thief written by Alane Adams & illustrated by Lauren Gallegos. Hardcover picture book published by Spark Press in 2017. 32 p. ISBN: 978-1-940716-86-2
✰✰✰ The groundlings are part human, part animal creatures from a different time and place. Like many abandoned and orphaned groundlings, Number 13 was taken to Miss Carbunkle’s Home for Wayward & Misbegotten Children. Number 13 can’t remember a time when he wasn’t here. To make things worse, he doesn’t even have a real name.
One day Number 13 sees a tiny creature being bullied even worse than himself; he finally decides to do something about it. In a show of unusual courage, he saves the little ball of fluff and makes a real friend. The first of many new friends, this is just the beginning of an adventure for Number 13. The duo will be tested time and again as they uncover a diabolical plan and try to prevent it. In a race to save the sounds of music, Number 13 and his ragtag group of friends will have to rely on their instincts, bravery, and each other if there’s any hope of overcoming evil.
The Bottom Line: This long fantasy is reminiscent of a Dickensian world with a nod to King Arthur and the knights of the round table as well. Filled with symbolism, references to classic works of fiction, and delightful black and white illustrations, this adventurous tale of friendship and overcoming fear may appeal to advanced middle grade or YA readers.
Details: The Wonderling written & illustrated by Mira Bartók. Reprint edition published by Candlewick in 2019. 464 p. ISBN: 978-1-5362-0890-0 Note: I received a free advance reading copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible by the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.
