Still wondering what to get the kids for Christmas? Looking for something better than a toy they'll quickly discard and forget?
Then consider a book -- something children will not only cherish but also enjoy with their parents. And how about one they'll pass down to their children?
The following list offers plenty of choices to compliment any collection. And, while not all celebrate the birth of Jesus -- the reason behind our season -- many do. And those that don't still portray lively, important traditions, along with some beautiful illustrations.
Ages 3 to 7
Little Critter: Just a Snowy Day, by Mercer Mayer ($8.99). If you like Little Critter, you'll enjoy following him throughout the house with this interactive, hardcover board book, touching his boots & fuzzy hat, opening the door and pulling his sled down the hill, then sniffing hot chocolate. A fun, wintery story that will also appeal to babies and toddlers.
Mary Engelbreit's A Merry Little Christ
mas, by Mary Engelbreit ($15.99). Filled with Engelbreit's signature drawings and rhymes, this hardcover goes from A to Z, celebrating delights of the holiday season. "C is for cookies and candies and cakes and a cup of hot chocolate that grandmother makes," writes Engelbreit. "P is for presents I wrapped by myself. Dad says, 'Really good! Like the work of an elf.'" Although she focuses far too much on Santa and completely ignores Jesus ("J stands for jingle bells") -- and this, despite the fact that it is called a "Christmas" story -- the book's detailed, beautiful illustrations and catchy rhymes nevertheless make it a worthwhile purchase .
Merry Un-Christmas, by Mike Reiss ($15.99). Of all the seasonal books I'm reviewing for young children, this one is my favorite. It tells the story of little Nicole, one of the many re
sidents of Christmas City, Texmas, who must endure Christmas every single day of the year. Every day, that is, but one: "Un-Christmas." On Un-Christmas Day, Nicole doesn't get any ponies, bikes or computers. She gets to go to school and wait for the mailman while watching "Gilligan's Island" (no Christmas specials, thank goodness). But best of all, she doesn't have to open any presents or eat five kinds of pie. Oh, what a joy! This smart, delightful story will keep you and your children laughing and reading over and over, with an opportunity to discuss the importance of setting one day apart each year.
Silent Night, by Joseph Mohr, illustrated by Thomas Kinkade ($16.99). Filled with signature drawings by the "painter of light," this hardcover book takes us to a wintery village of yesteryear on Christmas Eve. A beautiful gift that celebrates the message of this ancient carol.
