The Christmas Magic
Kindergarten-Grade 4–This intimate look at Santa's preparations for the big day starts with a tingling in his whiskers, which means that Christmas magic will soon arrive. Readers see the white-haired gent taking care of all the mundane chores: grooming the reindeer, darning his warm socks, shining the sleigh, and selecting and packing the gifts. When all is ready, the magic comes and Santa flies off to share it with the world. Muth's haunting watercolor and pastel illustrations bring the simple story to magical life. Santa's bunny slippers are a particularly charming touch. Best for one-on-one or small-group sharing, this gentle and lovely book is sheer enchantment.–Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public LibraryEND