12 DOGS OF CHRISTMAS - E. KRAGEN age seven

This board book, imagined by a seven year old child, is another variation on the popular song. Photos of different dogs are decorated with simple drawings. Some of the lyrics are "Five Golden Retrievers" and "Seven Huskies howling." Grade: C-

ALABASTER'S SONG - M. LUCADO

The six-year old boy in this story talks nightly to the angel sitting atop the Christmas tree and asks the angel what it was like to be in Bethlehem. Alabaster the angel tells and sings his story of that glorious night but only the boy can hear the angel. Why can't adults hear Alabaster? This is a thoughtful little book. Grade: B-

ANGELS IN THE SNOW - M. CARLSON

Her cabin may be the perfect hideout but Claire can't run away from her personal memories. She is seeking solace from anguish and hopes to also re-ignite her artistic drive while living in the woods. Winter is here and Claire enjoys her daily walks through the snowy landscape. Thinking that nobody else lives nearby, Clair is surprised when she discovers a set of footprints appearing to belong to an adult and a child. Her painful memories of a lost husband and son rush back to confront her. But she also becomes inspired when she sees snow angels near the mysterious footprints. Claire's art revives and so does her spirit and well-being. But troubles are hiding and Claire may need to evaluate what she wants from life. Angels in the Snow will bring the holiday magic into your home. Grade: A-

AUNTIE CLAUS AND THE KEY TO CHRISTMAS - E. PRIMAVERA

Poor Christopher Kringle is just a kid and has his doubts about Auntie Claus and Santa Claus. "I believe it when I see it." is his motto. To discover the truth, Chris starts acting up and misbehaving so that he can earn a spot on the B-B-and-G (Bad Boys and Girls) list and then not receive any gifts. Of course, the Kringle family helps Chris discover the truth and he makes a trip to Christmas where he finds Auntie and Santa Claus busily involved with holiday activities. This book is a fun sequel to last year's Auntie Claus. Grade: B+

AWAY IN A MANGER -J. LEWIS

The words of "Away in a Manger" and "Silent Night" are accompanied by appropriate illustrations but that is the only Christmas message. Grade: C-

BERENSTAIN BEARS MEET SANTA BEAR - S. & J. BERENSTAIN

A trip to the mall just gets brother and sister Bear excited about all the other toys they want for Christmas. Brother's list is short but sister's list is quite lengthy. However, when sister thinks about being good or bad, she decides to adjust her list. Eventually she even understands that it is better to give than to receive. Grade: C+

BEST CHRISTMAS - J. MASON

The Great Depression often tore fathers seeking work from their families. Hattie Best's father is on the road working where he can. Hattie and her brother live with their two aunts on a farm but life is hard. Christmas is here and Hattie has only one wish, to have her dad be home for Christmas. Will she get her wish? Grade: B+

BEST CHRISTMAS EVER - S. GREEN

Puss is a country cat who has just moved to the city with his, yes his, owner's family. But Puss misses the wide open spaces and decides to run away. Traffic almost claims Puss' life and the large streets, many people and homeless animals are bewildering to Puss. He gets lost and hopes that he can find his owner or that his owner can find him. Of course, all this happens during the Christmas season and there is a happy ending. Grade: C-

BILLY BOXX'S X-MAS SALE - R. HARSHAW

Silver Springs is a small town but it has Billy Boxx's Appliance and Electronics store. The "xx" in Billy's name stand for "extra, extra low prices." In fact, Billy has successfully created an advertising campaign which capitalizes on the spelling of Christmas as X-mas. Most people have accepted Boxx's ads, except old lady Crabtree. Every year she would write a letter to Billy reminding him of his foolishness in taking "Christ" out of the holiday. But Mrs. Crabtree died during the year and Billy doesn't expect a letter from her this year. However, a letter does arrive and then so does Mrs. Crabtree's ghost to remind Billy of the symbols of Christmas. Billy sees the error of his ways, changes his ads and puts Christ back into Christmas. Grade: B

BLUE'S TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - C. LUKAS

Blue and friends sing a variation of the holiday favorite with such new phrases as "five popcorn strings, nine cards for mailing and twelve stockings hanging." Grade: C-

CATS' LETTERS TO SANTA - B. ADLER

What would cats ask from Santa for Christmas? Here are some answers. Wished for gifts include new claws for a recently declawed feline, more fish, a non-moving ray of sunshine, a book deal and better tasting cat food. Cat lovers will get a good chuckle from this novelty book. Grade: C

CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS - edited by G. HALE & C. KELLY-GANGI

Truman Capote shares his childhood memories of Christmas crafts with the reader. Other contributors to this collection of Yuletide thoughts include Garrison Keillor and Erma Bombeck. In fact, I quite enjoyed Bombeck's remark: "On Christmas morning, after the gifts have been opened, what are the kids doing? Playing with boxes and snapping the air pockets of plastic packing material." Grade: B

CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOUL CHRISTMAS TREASURY FOR KIDS - EDITED

The editors enlisted children to contribute and select stories for this collection of twenty-five Christmas stories. You can read a story per night leading up to Christmas and make this collection part of your holiday tradition. My favorites include "Drummer Boy", "Angel Among Us", and "Christmas Care Bear." Grade: A

CHRISTMAS ALPHABET - poem by C. WELLS

"A is for angels who grace the tree, R is for reindeer that gallop and prance." Every letter of the alphabet defines an aspect of Christmas and yuletide paintings from different artists accompany the sayings. Grade: C+

CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD - EDITED

This compact little book presents the world's Christmas traditions in a fun-filled format. Readers can test their knowledge and comprehension with true-and-false questions, fill in the blanks, word searches, multiple choice answers etc. Throughout the world, countries share common ground and traditions at Christmastime and yet there are also interesting differences. Grade: B-

CHRISTMAS BLESSINGS - compiled by J. COTNER

Filled with Yuletide poetry and stories, this fine collection begs to be read and savored in small servings. My favorites include "In this Moment" and "In China During Christmas." Grade: B+

CHRISTMAS CRICKET - E. BUNTING, illustrated by T. BUSH

Cricket is cold so he sneaks into the house and discovers a decorated tree which would make the perfect hiding place. Cricket is happy and starts chirping. The father and son admiring their tree hear the chirping and the father explains to the boy that angels sing in all kinds of voices. Cute book but it was lacking in Christmas message. Grade: C-

CHRISTMAS CITY - M. GARLAND

Garland's offering is filled with rhyme and hidden pictures and sayings. Aunt Jeanne sends Tommy on a scavenger hunt to Christmas City. "Count angels and cherubs and candy canes too. Find snowmen, elves, reindeer, they're hiding from you." Readers can discover many surprises, including "Merry Christmas" in foreign languages, in these delightful pictures. Grade: B+

CHRISTMAS CROSS - M. LUCADO

A picture of Clearwater Lutheran Church leads the narrator of this story to return to his birth town of Clearwater, TX. The narrator admits that he and his wife have had a rough time in their marriage lately and that this short addition to a business trip may ease the tension, Christmas is just a few days away. But Clearwater holds a mystery. Our narrator doesn't know about his birth family since he was adopted. But answers often come in unusual ways. Christmas Cross is a heartfelt story presented in a handsome volume with artwork and sepia style photographs. Grade: B+

CHRISTMAS GIFTS, CHRISTMAS VOICES - J. ALLEN

Eric Sanders is perfectly content with his life. His wife Leslie and children Billy and Michelle love him and all are happy living in a beautiful home in a small town. Just this morning, Eric shopped for special gifts for Leslie and the kids. Tonight, Leslie and the children went to choir practice while Eric stayed home to wrap the gifts he bought. Then a knock on the door brings devastating news; Leslie and kids were killed in a car accident. Christmas has lost its appeal for Eric and following the funeral, Eric calls a local charity to give them all the presents, decorations and even the tree. But Eric forgot the special gifts still lingering in the attic where he was wrapping them. He carefully evaluates who of his acquaintances would best benefit from each gift and then delivers the gifts covertly. Shortly after Christmas, Eric moves to a big city, and over the course of many years, becomes the head of his firm. He never remarries and he does not celebrate Christmas. But holiday nostalgia draws Eric back to his small town one year. He attends the Christmas program and discovers that his gifts created unique results. Christmas Gifts, Christmas Voices reminds the reader to take a second look at life and discover what really matters. Yes, misfortune will come at some time and parents may experience their worst nightmares but there is hope. Grade: A

CHRISTMAS IN CANAAN - K. ROGERS & D. DAVENPORT

The turbulent 1960's even touched tiny Canaan, TX. DJ Burton, white, and Rodney Freeman, black, are classmates, but not friends. As a result of one of their fights, Rodney and DJ are forced to live with each other's family for a couple of days. This unique punishment brings understanding and friendship to the boys. Rodney lives with his grandmother and when she dies, DJ's father invites Rodney to live with them. Times are tough financially for the Burtons and Christmas presents challenges. Civil liberties and personal feelings also stir up trouble in sleepy Canaan. This book started out well and should have been ended just after Christmas. Unfortunately, the authors decided to continue their story and included some "damns and hells" in the ensuing dialogues. The Lord's name is also taken in vain once. Grade: D

CHRISTMAS IN HARMONY - P. GULLEY

Harmony is a beautifully sleepy American town. Everybody knows everybody else, the local preachers of different faiths are friends and small town quirks abound. One church's Christmas festivities this year stir up troubles in a funny way. Touches of Americana ooze from the pages of this book but the Christmas message is lacking. Grade: C

CHRISTMAS IN MY HEART #11 - EDITED BY J. WHEELER

This year's, 2002, yuletide offering of short stories compiled by Joe Wheeler is quite enjoyable. Each narrative presents a variation on the holiday theme ranging from a story about two scrawny Christmas trees to a story about a boy with too many toys to a story about a loving father's desperate search for his daughter's wished for gift. Grade: B+

CHRISTMAS IN MY SOUL #3 - EDITED BY J. WHEELER

In the introduction, Dr. Wheeler reminisces about Christmases of his childhood. He also discusses how children of divorce never fully recover from this wrenching of their comfort zone. My favorites in this collection include "When Tad Remembered" and "Something Quite Forgotten." Grade: B+

CHRISTMAS IN THE CITY - L. KRUPINSKI

New York City at Christmastime is a magical place as Mr. And Mrs. Mouse find out. The tree in which they live becomes the Rockefeller Plaza Christmas tree. Watching the ice skaters and window shopping are a few of the activities the mice enjoy. Mrs. Mouse is pregnant and delivers her babies in the manger of a Nativity. Grade: C

CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY - C. RYLANT

Winter in the country is quiet, from the soft fallen snow to the silence of the woods and animals. As Christmas approaches, Grandpa cuts down a fresh tree and Grandma and her granddaughter retrieve the familiar handmade heirloom ornaments. Of course, the message of Christ's life also is part of the holiday celebrations and church services are attended. This simple story is nicely illustrated by Diane Goode. Grade: B

CHRISTMAS IS... - G. GIBBONS

Verse and drawings remind the reader of what Christmas is. Christmas is the Christ Child, ...angels, ...reindeer, ...joy etc. Grade: B-

Christmas Jars by Jason F. Wright

"To the next person to hold my baby, she is yours now." Why would a mother ever have to write such fateful words? Because the woman in question has an abusive husband and couldn’t think of any better way of giving her child a more loving home. When Louise Jensen finds the infant, Louise is overwhelmed with love and awe. This baby will be coddled in Louise’s loving arms. Since no information regarding the baby is available, the courts eventually grant Louise custody of this baby girl which Louise names Hope. While growing up, Hope yearns to be a newspaper reporter. Well, Hope gets a job at a newspaper, writing classified ads and editing other writers’ works. Life seems to be flowing along nicely for Hope until one Christmas Eve when her comfort zone is shredded. Her apartment was broken into. But the despair of a ruined holiday, and loss of trust, is softened by the appearance of a jar filled with money. Hope does not know who provided this "Christmas Jar" or why. Her reporter’s curiosity aroused, Hope embarks on a journey of discovery. Over the years, several people have written to the editor stating that they too had received such mysterious money filled jars. Hope’s search brings her to the home of a family who practices the tradition of creating Christmas Jars. What happens next, creates the spirit of Christmas Jars. Wright’s book is filled with honorable characters, examples of loving family relations and the spirit of service. The book also invites readers to start their own Christmas Jar tradition. Grade: A-

CHRISTMAS ORANGES - L. BETHERS

Little baby Rose was left on the steps of Greenwood Orphanage shortly after she was born. Mrs. Hartley, the caretaker, loved all her orphans. Now Mrs. Hartley is dead and the children are shipped to different homes. Rose finds herself at Irongate Orphanage, a very strict place. The children at Irongate are told to obey the rules at all times and Rose tries to do so. Every Christmas, an older man in town delivers a box of oranges for the children. Rose has never tasted an orange and looks forward to this treat. But she has broken some rules accidentally and is told that she is restricted to the sleeping room and will not receive her orange. But the other orphans have a surprise for Rose. This warm Christmas story, illustrated by B. Sowards, will remind readers about the joy of sharing willingly, Grade: B+

CHRISTMAS QUEST - R. SIDDOWAY

Will Martin has successfully run Martin Realty since he returned to his hometown two years ago when his grandmother had a specific Christmas wish. Since then Will has married Renée and plans to adopt her son Justin. But finding Justins father Gary Carr is proving difficult. Additionally, Wills firm is starting a huge development and Will is running for political office. The year becomes increasingly busierfor Will and his family relations suffer. Will the strain of adoption, possibly bankruptcy and political mudslinging destroy Wills family? Christmas Quest is a well-written book reminding readers about family values and what is important in ones life. However, the Christmas message so prominent in Christmas Wish is not represented in this book. Grade: B+

CHRISTMAS STORIES FOR THE HEART - COMPILED BY A. GRAY

This elegant book of Yuletide stories is filled with heart-warming and faith-affirming stories. Taylor Caldwell recalls a Christmas when she was in her 20's and life had dealt her a few miserable cards. Paul Flucke's story "The Secret of the Gifts" creates a whole different aspect of the Christmas story. Some editions of this collection also include a holiday music CD which adds to the reader's enjoyment. Grade: A

CHRISTMAS TAPESTRY - P. POLACCO

The author of Welcome Comfort brings an oft told story to life in this picture book. A minister and his family have been transferred to a new parish. The church building needs much work and the children didn't really want to move. During the holiday season, frozen water melted and damaged the sacristy wall. To prepare for the Christmas service, the preacher and his son go in search of a picture or piece of cloth to cover the damage. They do find a beautiful, and large enough, piece of cloth to cover the damaged wall. An old lady, whom they invited to their home, sees the cloth and is flabbergasted. She made this tapestry in preparation for her marriage in the "old country" just before the Nazis destroyed her life. She and her future husband were forcefully separated and she believes that her lover died. A couple of days later, the plasterer comes to the church to inspect the damage and he also recognizes the tapestry. His beloved created it for their marriage before the Nazi terror started. Of course, love is eternal and the woman and the man reunite happily. Different versions of this story exist, but it always touches my heart. Grade: A-

CHRISTMASTIME IS HERE (FISHER PRICE LITTLE PEOPLE) - E. WEISS

This colorful board book offers lift-the-flaps and labeled pictures for the little ones' delights. The Little People participate in Christmas activities and an Advent calendar is also included. Grade: C+

CHRISTMAS TRAIN - D. BALDACCI

T'was the Christmas season and all through the land, many people were flying to see uncle and aunt. But not Tom Langdon, he had a problem with security at La Guardia airport and has been banned from flying domestically for two years. So Tom joins other travelers in riding Amtrak from Washington, D.C., to Chicago and then all the way to Los Angeles. Little does Tom know that this rail journey will be more exciting than anything else he has done in his career as a free-lance reporter. The train is filled with unique characters including a nervous couple planning to get married on the train, a thief, a retired preacher and-surprise, surprise-Toms former lover. Add to this mix a movie producer, a fortune teller and mutable Mother Nature and you get this delightful lark of a Christmas story. Baldacci employs his writing skills in presenting the values and cheer of Christmas. Grade: A-

CONVERSATIONS ABOUT CHRISTMAS - D. THOMAS

An old man talks to a young boy about Christmas memories from the man's youth in Wales. The snow was whiter, the old man as a young boy waited to hear the reindeer's hoofs on the roof, just as kids do still today, and Christmas wasn't much different from what it is today. Unfortunately, this wasn=t much of a Christmas book. Grade: D

CRACKED CLASSICS: HUMBUG HOLIDAY - T. ABBOTT

Palmdale Middle School is your usual school with the requisite class clowns, in this case, Frankie and Devin. These two kids regularly forget about their assignments but a secret has helped them stay in good graces with their English teacher. The secret, hidden in the librarian's workroom, allows Devin and Frankie to become additional characters in the book they are reading at the time. This is how they end up in foggy London outside Ebenezer Scrooge's office just a couple of days before Christmas. Let the adventure, and learning, begin. Abbott did a good job of retelling and simplifying A Christmas Carol. Grade: B

DEAR AMERICA: WHEN CHRISTMAS COMES AGAIN - B. LEVINE

This entry in the Dear America journal series is the fictional World War I Diary of Simone Spencer. Simone and her family live in New York, they are members of the affluent society. Simone's mom is French and taught her daughter French. This skill becomes valuable when General John J. Pershing calls for young women to join the Signal Corps and work for American communications on the Western Front. Simone and the other women in the Signal Corps witness some of the terrors of war. When Simone returns from Europe, she is a changed person. She is more mature and has a greater appreciation of her good life. The historical facts in this "diary" were intriguing but the Christmas message was lacking. Grade: C

DONKEY'S CHRISTMAS SONG - N. TAFURI

Large drawings illustrate the story of the Holy Baby. Each animal in the stable sings to the baby but the donkey fears that his braying will scare the baby. Instead, the baby laughs; cute story. Grade: C

ELLIS ISLAND CHRISTMAS - M. LEIGHTON

Krysia is only six years old when her family moves from Poland to America. Her family is already in America and he is waiting for his family. The family can only take the bare minimum of their belongings and the long journey across the sea is filled with boredom and seasickness. But eventually they arrive in America and are processed at Ellis Island on Christmas Eve. Grade: C

ESTHER'S GIFT - J. KARON

Her delicious orange marmalade cakes have made Esther famous in Mitford. And every Christmas, Esther bakes seven of her ambrosia-like creations for special friends. But this year, she realizes that the ingredients are expensive and so Esther asks her husband Gene to figure out precisely, including labor costs, the dollar value of each cake. The final number astounds Esther and she quickly decides to cut her recipient list short. Then she remembers the joyful smiles and beaming faces of her friends when she and Gene deliver the cakes. Esther's Gift reminds the reader that giving is better than receiving. Grade: B-

FALLEN ANGELS - D. SNYDER

As a youth, Terry McQuinn spent a fateful day running errands with Mr. Halworth and his daughter. And an accident changed all their lives. Terry's dad was the caretaker of all the summer cottages, including the Halworth's cottage called Serenity, in this part of Maine. Now thirty years later and at Christmas time, Terry has returned because his dad died. One work order remains, "open Serenity." Terry calls the owners of the cottage and offers to finish the job in time for Christmas. Terry's feeling need to heal and the Christmas guests may just be able to help him. This warm story is a little long but worth reading. Grade: B

FAMILY CHRISTMAS - COMPILED BY J. DOBSON

Dr. Dobson carefully picked his favorite Christmas stories to include in this heirloom book. Harvey's gorgeous paintings compliment the stories, scriptures and poems. Each story inspires the reader to find the beauties of Christmas and to believe in hope. This collection should become a family treasure to be read often. Grade: A

FLIP'S SNOWMAN - P. HOR;EK

This activity book: filled with lift-the-flaps, die-cuts and tabs; tells the story of Flip building a snowman. There was no Christmas theme. Grade: D

GIDEON'S GIFT - K. KINGSBURY

The fates of mortals are often cruel and Earl has experienced the worst. He lost all reason for living and caring for himself a few years ago. Since then, he has lived on the streets of Portland. Earl even considered suicide at one time but couldnt bring himself to do it. He has only one priced possession, a pair of hand-sewn red gloves. Unfortunately, the gloves are stolen a few days before Thanksgiving. Gideon and her parents plan to serve dinner at the homeless shelter. Here Gideon meets grumpy Earl. Although slightly discouraged by Earls behavior, Gideon plans to find the perfect gift for him. What Earl doesnt know is that Gideon has leukemia and needs a bone marrow transplant which her family cant afford. But the holiday season is the perfect time for miracles and gaining new faith in God. And Earl and Gideon will both benefit from their eventual friendship. Gideon's Gift is a wonderful book that will tuck at your heart and may bring tears to your eyes. Grade: A

GIFT OF FATHER CHRISTMAS: Stories and Traditions of St. Nicholas - EDITED

Beautiful paintings by D. Morgan richly illustrate the thoughts, poems and stories about Father Christmas. Readers are reminded that the Dutch brought their tradition of Sint Nikolaas, also known as Sinter Klass, to America where Father Christmas became known as Santa Claus. This is a splendid book for the holiday season. Grade: B+

HARK! THE AARDVARK ANGELS SING - T. SLOAT

Set to the popular holiday tune, this picture book tells the story of aardvark angels who help deliver the Christmas mail every year world-wide. In fact, the aardvarks can get the mail to the most remote places on earth. Kids should laugh at this book. Grade: C+

HELLO KITTY: HELLO CHRISTMAS - H. ABRAMS

Treats, snowflakes, friends, mistletoe, carols, presents etc. are all part of Kitty's Christmas. Four ornaments are included in this book. Only Kitty fans will care for this book. Grade: C-

HERE COMES SANTA CLAUS - G. AUTRY & O. HALDEMAN, illust. by B. WHATLEY

This big picture book is filled with Whatley's bright pictures illustrating the yuletide favorite song. Grade: B-

HOW DO YOU KNOW IT'S CHRISTMAS - PRECIOUS MOMENTS

This board book with lift-the-flaps depicts the Precious Moments characters participating in many holiday activities. Grade: C-

HOW SANTA GOT HIS JOB - S. KRENSKY

Santa was a young man when he embarked on his job search. He was a chimney sweep but kept too clean and people didn't believe him that he had done his job. Next he became a letter carrier but when he decided to deliver mail in the middle of the night, and people complained, he was fired. At the zoo, Santa paid excessive attention to the reindeer. He and the reindeer left the zoo, found work for the circus and met some elves who were toy makers. And Santa, the reindeer and the elves lived happily ever after. Grade: C

IF YOU'RE MISSING BABY JESUS - J. GIETZEN

This true story is now available in a beautifully illustrated little book. It is Christmas time in 1943 in North Dakota. A family has just bought a nativity set at the store and discovers that the set came with two figurines of Baby Jesus. So another set must be missing a Baby Jesus. The family posts a note saying "If you're missing Baby Jesus call 7162" at the store. A young mother does call the family but not because her nativity set is missing the figurine. Instead, this young mother, whose husband has deserted her and her children, needs help. And help is willingly given. Grade: A-

IT'S WINTER - L. GLASER

This picture book of cut-paper illustrations portrays winter time activities such as catching snowflakes, building snowmen and admiring the winter scenery. But there was no holiday message. Grade: D

JINGLE BELLS - ??

This board book includes an electronic rendition of "Jingle Bells." Simple drawings illustrate the words of the song. Unfortunately, it lacked appeal. Grade: D

JULIE'S GUITAR - W.N. PARTRIDGE

It is Christmas time and Bill is miserable. He has been miserable and depressed for five years since that fateful night which tore his life apart, the night that his pregnant wife was killed in a car accident. And now, Bill has lost his job. Meanwhile, Tom and Diane are struggling financially and wondering how to provide even a minimal Christmas for their daughter. Bill meets Tom and family and the joys of Christmas are awakened in Bill's heart. This heart-warming novel captures the Christmas ideals. Grade: A-

KINGFISHER TREASURY OF CHRISTMAS STORIES - chosen by S. HARDY

This collection of children's Christmas stories offers something for most any reader. The black and white illustrations also cry out to be colored. My favorite stories include "Gifts" and "Baboushka." Grade: B+

LET NOTHING YOU DISMAY - M. O'DONNELL

This is a "lost puppy" book with Tad Leary being the lost puppy. Tad has been fired, his master thesis is stalled, he will soon be evicted, he has broken up with his male lover and it is just a few days before Christmas. As Tad considers his strained family relations and the seven holiday parties he has been invited to, he decides to network, live it up and exercise some introspection. Tad also discovers the follies, eccentricities and aloofness of rich New Yorkers. Unfortunately, this story set during Christmas is not a Christmas story. Grade: F

LIGHT IN THE STORM - C. HEIMERDINGER

Success always comes at a price. For Ben Wylie, the price of business success was his family relations. His loving wife has given Ben an ultimatum and he understands that his marriage and eternal family are in jeopardy. He decides to change his ways as soon as he returns from a business trip in Montana. Although it is December, and just a few days before Christmas, it hasn't snowed and the Beartooth Highway in the middle of Wyoming is open. Then Ben runs off the road and it starts to snow for days. He is stranded and doesn't expect to survive his ordeal. But a changed heart and his rediscovered love for his family help Ben defy the odds. Grade: B

LIGHT OF BETHLEHEM - J. WARNICK

Christmastime this year is difficult for Crystal. The previous year, she and her Dad were in an auto accident; they both survived but Crystal was paralyzed from the waist down. No longer happy, Crystal resents her physical challenge and her life. Because of her wheelchair, she decides to not try out for the school Christmas play. Then a teacher gives Crystal a short book to read. In this book, the main character Rachel lives at the time of Christs birth. She and her father, along with other shepherd, hear the angels glorious announcement. The shepherds travel to Bethlehem but Rachel stays behind because she is crippled, one leg ending at the knee. Finally Rachel determines to travel to Bethlehem on her own although the journey will be arduous for her. Rachel arrives, sees the Holy Baby and understands his divinity. She was expecting physical healing but instead receives spiritual healing. After reading the book, Crystal also feels her spirit healing. Grade: B+

LIGHT OF CHRISTMAS - R. EVANS, illustrated by D. CRAIG

Noel is a small town settled high in the mountains. Christmas is celebrated in Noel all year, a tree is decorated year-long and every Christmas Eve, the Keeper of the Flame lights the Christmas Torch. Alexander and his mother have traveled to Noel yearly but now the mom is old and Alexander will travel to Noel by himself. Before he reaches Noel, Alexander finds an old man who needs help. Alexander shares his provisions with the old traveler and then hurries to Noel to enlist help. But nobody is willing to aid Alexander since the lighting ceremony will start soon. Alexander returns to where the old man was only to find that the weary traveler has disappeared. Alexander returns to Noel, is allowed into the city, and watches the ceremony where everybody offers gifts. Then Alexander learns that the "truest gift of Christmas is the gift of self." Grade: B+

LOLA THE ELF - D. DeGROAT

Young Lola watches a mall Santa being helped by elves so she decides to become and elf and help at home. Of course, her youthful help brings questionable results. Grade: C

MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS - EDITED

This LDS-themed collection of stories, traditions and poems will invite the Christmas joys into your home. Holiday recipes are also included. Some authors share personal memories and one of my favorites was "Carol of the Full Heart." Grade: A-

MAX'S CHRISTMAS - R. WELLS

Max has been told that he should go to sleep before Santa arrives but Max stays up and meets Santa. This picture book didn't offer much. Grade: C-

MERRY CHRISTMAS - M. KNUDSEN

This "sparkle and shimmer" board book depicts various Christmas activities. Some of your youngest family members may enjoy this book. Grade: D

MERRY CHRISTMAS, BIG HUNGRY BEAR! - D. & A. WOOD

Every busy picture catches your attention with bright colors. The narrator talks to little Mouse and mentions that she has so many nice gifts and the big hungry Bear living in a cave has no gifts. As the story progresses, little Mouse starts to feel badly about Bear and decides to share her gifts. But a surprise awaits little Mouse. Grade: C

MERRY CHRISTMAS STICKY FACE - L. MCCOURT, illustrated by C. MOORE

"Sticky Face" is the nickname of the boy starring in this picture book. Sticky Face worries about Christmas and has many questions, luckily, his mom has imaginative answers. For example, Sticky worries about the reindeers antlers getting tangled up in the tree branches, so the mom leaves a saw for Santa, just in case; cute book. Grade: C

MILLY AND THE MACY'S PARADE - S. COREY

Most people enjoy the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade but how did this tradition get started? Corey shares the beginning with his readers. It was 1924 and New York was filled with immigrants from many foreign lands. Many of these future Americans missed their Christmas traditions from their home countries and Christmas in America seemed gloomy. Fictitious Milly proposes the parade to Mr. Macy. The real story is slightly different. This picture book is entertaining and the illustrations by Brett Helquist, the illustrator for L. Snicket's Series of Unfortunate Events books, are engaging. Grade: B-

MIRACLE ON 10^TH STREET - M. L'ENGLE

L'Engle divides her collection of stories, poems and personal reflections into several holiday categories and offers the reader a glimpse of her life. This insightful collection may also give rise to personal introspection. Grade: B

MISSIONARY'S NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS - S. CARABINE

This variation of the holiday favorite may only have limited appeal but it was cute. One of the Elders says: "I'm just one of many who preach far and wide, to share the good news of our Savior with pride." Sister missionaries and missionary couples are also represented in this fun stocking stuffer. Grade: C+

MY CHRISTMAS TREASURY - N.V. PEALE

Every person has Christmas favorites but not all of us can get our favorites published. But Norman Peale could and did. His yuletide favorites collected in this handsome volume encompass poems, hymns, thoughts and stories, including an excerpt from Dickens' Christmas Carol. Grade: B+

NEW IMPROVED SANTA - P. WOLFF

Santa feels that his "Ho-ho-ho" and appearance are becoming mundane and so he makes a New Year's resolution to become a "new and improved" Santa. Every month, he changes part of his appearance or behavior. Dyed, spiked hair and a slimmer look are just a couple of his changes. His new clothing and transportation choices are also problematic. Santa makes his first appearance with his new look early in the holiday season but children are frightened and Santa is discouraged. But Mrs. Claus knows that all Santa has to do is return to his old jolly self. He does and all is well. This book is reminiscent of title from a few years ago. Young children will laugh at Santa's antics but the holiday message was lacking. Grade: C-

NIGHT BEFORE THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS - N. WING

"Our tree wasn't up yet and Mom had the flu." But Christmas is coming anyway and this busy family manages to enter the chaos of Christmas. A tree is bought and decorated but while the family is out shopping, the family cat shreds the gifts and tears apart the tree. Is Christmas ruined? Not according to the Dad who says that "Christmas is about love and we have quite enough." Grade: B-

ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS - compiled by A. GRAY

Beautiful paintings by Laurie Hein add to the enjoyment of these thoughtfully selected and delightful holiday stories. My favorites include "A Family for Freddie" and "Delayed Delivery." Grade: A-

ON CHRISTMAS EVE - L. ROSENBERG

A long family trip on Christmas Eve ends with the family being forced to spend the night in a motel because of a severe snowstorm. The little boy of the family wonders quite anxiously if Santa can find them in the motel. Santa arrives before the boy falls asleep and the two of them enjoy a nice visit. The moral of the story is that Santa will find you no matter where you are. Grade: C

ONE SILENT NIGHT - J. WARNICK

Daniel Morgan is spending Christmas in a dangerous place far away from home. It is 1914 and he and his men are fighting the Germans. No official truce has been announced for the holiday but miracles can happen anywhere. On Christmas Eve, Daniel hears the sweet strains of "Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht" wafting across no-mans-land, the frozen ground, littered with bodies, between the opposing trenches. The Germans even set up small Christmas trees, lit with flickering candles, along the edge of their trench. British soldiers start singing Christmas hymns and eventually, Daniel and a German soldier brave their fears and meet in no-mans-land. An unofficial truce ensues. British and German soldiers unite in worshiping the Christ Child and also take the time to bury and honor their fallen comrades. Though the truce ends at midnight Christmas Day, war has lost its meaning for these soldiers. This fictional account draws on historical records which document the impromptu truce happening at various points of the Western Front in the early part of WWI. Grade: A

The Paper Bag Christmas by Kevin Alan Milne

How would a white and worn paper bag become a symbol of Christmas? Let’s find out. Our story begins the day after Thanksgiving in 1980 when Mo and Aaron meet a most unusual Santa Claus at the local mall. This Santa won’t let children sit on his lap. What is the deal? When Mo and Aaron ask Santa, whose real name is Dr. Ringle, they learn that Dr. Ringle lost his legs during WW II. But the loss of his limbs didn’t keep Dr. Ringle from accomplishing his goals. He eventually earned his medical degree and now works as a pediatric oncologist at the local hospital. Dr. Ringle is a friend of the boys’ parents and needs the boys’ help in bringing Christmas to many of his patients.  Aaron and Mo soon find themselves dressed as elves accompanying Santa in his wheelchair while he visits with the often terminally ill children on the fifth floor of the hospital. Happiness and sadness, encouragement and disappointment reign on this floor. One particular girl named Katrina holds a special place in Santa’s heart. Katrina’s brain surgeries have left their unfortunate marks and Katrina feels that she is ugly. Therefore, Katrina hides her head inside a white paper bag and hides her feelings inside herself. Just how can Aaron and Mo help Katrina regain the joy and magic of Christmas?  Milne’s touching novel reminds readers of caring, friendship and sacrifice. How often do we get carried away by the gifts and hustle of Christmas activities and forget what Christmas is really all about? Read Paper Bag Christmas and rediscover the true meaning of Christmas.   Grade: A-

POOH'S CHRISTMAS GIFTS (Winnie the Pooh First Reader) - I. GAINES

Pooh and friends enjoy a few winter activities and then get ready for a party and gift giving. They learn that gifts from the heart are best. Grade: B-

QUIZ THE SEASON - H. REVESZ

This little book of Christmas trivia will come in handy anytime there is a lull in conversation during your holiday gatherings. The trivia questions range from literature to music to worldwide customs and more. Grade: C+

RUGRATS: BABIES IN TOYLAND - S. WILLSON

Chuckie, rude Jessica and the rest of the gang have all gone to Christmasland Amusement Park. The adults are off having fun while Grandpa Lou is watching the kids. But Lou falls asleep and the kids go gallivanting through the park on their own. Of course, all have a happy time and return home safely. Grade: C

SANTA & PETE - C. MOORE and P. JOHNSON

The legend of Santa Claus finds its origin in the life of a Christian bishop, St. Nicholas, nearly 1,600 years ago. One year during his return trip from the Holy Land to Holland, St. Nicholas is arrested in Seville. In prison, he meets Pete, a Moor, and the two of them miraculously escape and return to Holland. Eventually, Santa and Pete even appear in New Amsterdam and use reindeer to pull their sleigh. This was an entertaining twist on the Santa legend. Grade: C

SANTA CLAUSTROPHOBIA - M. REISS, illustrated by D. CUTROW

Stinky Cigars is a peaceful place where all the holiday characters, such as the New Year's Baby, the Easter Bunny, Cupid etc, reside. Even Santa Claus lives here and he has a problem. He is scared of getting stuck inside a chimney and he doesn't want to do Christmas anymore. Doc Holiday, the local shrink, tells Santa to take a vacation and all the other holiday characters will pick up the slack and deliver Christmas. Santa leaves on his vacation. But things don't go well. The Easter Bunny paints all the toys in pastel colors, April Fool messes things up and Abe Lincoln and Washington are fighting. Luckily Santa returns a day early and rescues Christmas. This book is a lark, with funny rhymes and hilarious pictures. Grade: B+

SANTA CLAUS WILL COME TONIGHT - D. APPERLEY

Mice, foxes, deer and others all prepare for Santa's arrival. This brief book will entertain the youngest members of your family on Christmas Eve. Grade: C

SANTA MOUSE - M. BROWN, illustrated by E. DEWITT

A little mouse with no name lives all alone in a big house. Christmastime is here and the mouse decides to leave a gift for Santa. When Santa arrives, he wakes the mouse and thanks it for his gift. Since the mouse has no name, Santa calls it Santa Mouse and the two of them continue on Santas gift giving trip. Grade: C

SANTA'S BUSY NIGHT (Word by word first reader) - M. REX

Santa and his elf's adventures on Christmas Eve are told through illustrations coupled with one word per page. Kids can learn to read and then embellish the story from the pictures.Grade: C-

SANTA'S GIFT - JEFFREY COMMENT

No caring adult can watch children suffer from life threatening illnesses without feeling empathy. J. Comment has taken his caring a step further. For the last few years, he has dressed up as Santa and has visited the children's wards in hospitals. His experiences with these precious children, whose every day can be a struggle to stay alive, has increased his faith in the resilience of children. And to the children and their parents, Jeff as Santa is a symbol of hope. Some of the stories will bring tears to your eyes. Grade: B+

SCOOBY DOO AND SANTA'S BAKE SHOP - J. McCANN

Scooby Doo and the gang have been invited to the North Pole but Santa is sad because his sack of presents has disappeared. The gang is hot on the case and eventually arrives in the sweets factory where Scooby and Shaggy can't control themselves. The presents are found eventually. This scratch and sniff book also comes with stickers. Grade: D

SILVER PACKAGES: An Appalachian Christmas Story - C. RYLANT, paintings by C. SOENTPIET

The Christmas Train is a yearly delight for everyone living in the coal mining towns of Appalachia. This train was started by a rich business man who received help, shelter and nursing when he had an accident in Appalachia. Years ago, a young boy was hoping to receive a specific gift, but each year he was disappointed. Once the boy became an adult, and realized that the gifts he did receive were filling his needs every year, he decided to repay his blessings to the community. Grade: C

SMALL MIRACLE - P. COLLINGTON

No food, no more money and a drafty trailer make up the life of the lonely old woman featured in this story. She lives in the country and walks to the village to sell her precious accordion, the only joyful thing left in her life. Once she has money to buy food, all should be well. But her money is stolen and in despair she walks to the little country church to find solace. Instead, the finds the same thief trying to escape with the offerings for the poor. This old woman grabs the money from the thief but can=t stop the thief. Then she enters the church and sees the disarray caused by the hoodlum. She fixes the nativity and other things and then heads out into the cold and snowy day to return to her trailer. But exhaustion seizes the old woman and she fall into the snow. Then the miracle of this story begins. The figures of the nativity become alive and rescue the old woman. This warm and thoughtful story is told through pictures only. Grade: B+

SNOWMEN AT NIGHT - C. BUEHNER

You've built the perfect snowman but the next morning it looks different. What happened? What do snowmen do at night? They party, they ice-skate, they have snowball fights etc. And in the morning, the snowmen return to their homes in less perfect shape; funny book. Grade: B-

STABLE WHERE JESUS WAS BORN - R. GREEN

The Christmas story is retold in simple words illustrated by S. Gaber. Grade: B-

STORIES BEHIND THE BEST-LOVED SONGS OF CHRISTMAS - A. COLLINS

Everybody has one or more favorite Christmas songs and Collins' book succinctly tells the stories and origins of many Christmas songs. Readers will be surprised by the influences of Judy Garland, Mel Torme and Nat King Cole on some of America's favorite yuletide songs. And the surprising stories behind "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" and "The Twelve Days of Christmas" will be fodder for thought. Grade: A-

TEDDY'S SNOW DAY - I. BECK

The hero of this story, a cute little teddy bear, falls out the open window and lands in the soft snow. Now it is time for Teddy to play and frolic. But as the day grows long, Teddy forgets about the time and by the time he decides to head home, a snowstorm is raging and Teddy is lost. But a kind stranger, dressed in red, helps Teddy. Although this is a cute story, there wasn't much of a Christmas theme. Grade: C-

TEN TIMID GHOSTS ON A CHRISTMAS NIGHT - J. O'CONNELL

1, 2, 3, and so forth "timid ghosts on a Christmas night - waiting and watching on a Christmas night." The timid ghosts discover Santa, in fact he scares them and they scare him, and then the ghosts open their gifts from Santa. Grade: C-

THIS IS THE SEASON - S. DEWEY

Christmas thoughts and writings from Latter-day Saint leaders and theologians are combined with scripture verses and Simon Deweys gorgeous paintings. This art book could well become your familys Yuletide favorite. Grade: A

TWELVE BLESSINGS OF CHRISTMAS - T.J. MILLS, illustrated by J. MARIE

This whimsical book reminds readers of specific blessings of Christmas such as music, faith, love, family and hope. Maries playful art adds to the enjoyment of this collection of thoughts and recipes. Grade: B+

TWELVE STORIES OF CHRISTMAS - JOE WHEELER

Dr. Wheeler has been editing Christmas story collections for a few years but this is the first collection of his own stories. You may want to have a box of tissues ready as you read these holiday stories. My favorites included "The Snow of Christmas","The Third Rose" and "Evensong." One story even teaches you that the best sermon you can ever preach is represented in the life you lived. Grade: A-

VISIONS OF SUGAR PLUMS - J. EVANOVICH

Although she locked her door and windows, Stephanie wakes up to find an unwelcome guest in her apartment. His name is Diesel, he is quite handsome, and he has a way with locks. Diesel also chides Stephanie for her lack of Christmas preparation. She doesn't even have a tree and she hasn't bought any gifts for her family yet and it is just a few days before Christmas. However, Steph's latest case does have a Yuletide flavor. She is trying to apprehend an old geezer named Sandy Claws. Steph's family appears to be even more dysfunctional during the holidays than at other times. The family Christmas tree looks like "it was grown near a nuclear plant" and Grandma Mazur has yet another boyfriend. Christmas in the Burg, with Diesel having his own agenda and Stephanie's libido doing flip-flops, creates a new definition of holiday delirium. Unfortunately, Visions... isn't much of a Christmas book but Plum fans will like this addition to the series. Grade: C-

WHO'S THAT KNOCKING ON CHRISTMAS EVE - J. BRETT

Brett retells an old Norwegian fable about trolls who always break into a hut on Christmas Eve and eat all the food and destroy all the decorations. Then one year, the family living in the cabin has a visitor and his pet and the trolls receive a surprise. Brett's beautiful artwork adds to the magic of this story. Grade: B-

WORST PERSON'S CHRISTMAS - J. STEVENSON

Mr. Worst is old, grouchy and the perfect example of a curmudgeon. He hates everything and everyone. When he accidentally is bumped by a Santa, Worst says: "Watch out Fatso!" Then a couple of children leave a gift for Mr. Worst and his heart softens just a little bit. Grade: C

YOUNG SANTA - D. GREENBURG

The early life of Santa Claus is revealed in this book. His parents were Sophie and Milton Claus and they thought that "Santa" sounded cute as a boys name. When Santa was three years old, his father relocated for his job to the North Pole. Here Santa learned to drive a sleigh. Santa also enjoyed wearing red clothing and eventually got a job in the towns small store listening to children telling him their Christmas wishes. Seeing a need, Santa decided to share his gifts and eventually continued this tradition yearly and became the modern day Santa Claus. Greenburgs book is imaginative but other authors, such as Frank Baum, have created more interesting histories of Santas youth. Grade: C-