MERRY WHATMAS?
From the Hedgehog & Friends series
by Eoin McLaughlin ; illustrated by Polly Dunbar
Hedgehog and Tortoise experience their first Christmas.
“Merry whatmas? / Merry whichmas?” What in the world is Christmas? Fox declares that “Christmas is all about presents.” With kind smiles, Hedgehog and Tortoise think that sounds lovely. But alas, Fox greedily snatches all the brightly wrapped gifts and refuses to share. Badger, however, has a more culinary take on the holiday. “Christmas time is treat time,” Badger says, holding out a spoon of delicious batter to lick (though, unfortunately for Tortoise, it includes raisins). Each woodland creature has a different idea of what makes Christmas special: the singing, decorating, or maybe even the cozy sweaters. Rabbit alludes to the stress of the season: “Everything needs to be perfect … / Perfect! Perfect! Perfect!” The Christmas crackers make loud bangs (a British import cue), while the lights flash garishly. Neither Tortoise nor Hedgehog see the appeal of this holiday. In fact, Christmas seems downright overwhelming. Luckily, Owl arrives to tell them that the holiday “is about being with the ones you love.” And one thing they do know—it feels the best when they’re together. Dunbar’s soft, glowing art matches the duo’s warmth and tenderness, complete with rosy cheeks and gentle hugs. (This book was reviewed digitally.)
A sweet look at what makes Christmas special.
(Picture book. 3-6)