For the Youngest Readers (Toddlers to Kindergarten)

WHITE CHRISTMAS
Written by Irving Berlin, illustrated by Michael Hague (Harper)
This classic song illustrated by Michael Hague is a real treat this season. The details and multiple characters will entertain readers for some time. The music is included to make the experience even more fun.

THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
Written by Clement Moore, illustrated by Tomie dePaola (Holiday)
It seems fitting that award-winning artist Tomie dePaola would set this lovely version of this classic poem in New England.

ALBERTINE’S GOT TALENT!
Written by Shena Power, illustrated by Madeline Valentine (Henry Holt)
This book is a must-read for parents who over-worry about their child’s talents. Exposure to many things, patience, and praise will work wonders for a child’s self-esteem.

For Readers (Kindergarten to 2nd Grade)

THE CHRISTMAS EVE GHOST
Written and illustrated by Shirley Hughes (Candlewick)
Drawing from her childhood, award-winning author/illustrator Shirley Hughes shares a beautifully illustrated story about imagination, friendship, and surprise during the holiday season.

SANTA GOES GREEN
Written by Anne Margaret Lewis, illustrated by Elisa Chavarri (Mackinac Island Press)
Curiosity about the title was the first hook to grab my attention. Two storylines in one book are combined with marvelous illustrations.

LI’L RABBIT’S KWANZAA
Written by Donna L. Washington, illustrated by Shane W. Evans (Katherine Tegen Books)
This story parallels the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa and is one of the best I have read. Shane Evan’s illustrations complement the charming personality of Li’l Rabbit, who unknowingly saves the Kwanzaa celebration. 

For Readers (3rd to 6th Grade)

FANTASY: AN ARTIST’S REALM
Written and illustrated by Ben Boos (Candlewick)
From the moment you see the cover, you’ll be swept into this astonishingly detailed resource on the fantasy world. Fantasy lovers will feel right at home.

O CHRISTMAS TREE: ITS HISTORY AND HOLIDAY TRADITIONS
Written by Jacqueline Farmer, illustrated by Joanne Friar (Charlesbridge)
Included with this thorough historical look at holiday tree celebrations are many nice additional features: a description of the process of growing trees, types of trees, reforestation and planting of trees, and cool facts about holiday trees in America.

ONE MINUTE MYSTERIES: 65 SHORT MYSTERIES YOU SOLVE WITH MATH
Written Eric and Natalie Yoder (Science Naturally!)
Combining math and reading in a book is a good idea. Don’t stress if you can’t solve the mysteries because the how-to and answers are included.

Book reviews provided by BSU professor Stan Steiner, the Bookman. For more suggestions and reviews, visit his web page at http://education.boisestate.edu/stansteiner.