The Christmas House - Hardcover

Ages 6-9. Here are Christmas reminiscences told by parallel voices, some human, some not. The house, which has seen so many holiday memories, begins: "I know about children. / They never sleep that night. / My stairs know their quiet steps." And while there are many joyous remembrances included, from the grandparents and some of the grandchildren and the dog, this is not just holiday puffery. Father wonders if Christmas is all about saving all year for toys and baubles. Young Nick worries about the phony smile he'll have to plaster on his face when he gets presents he doesn't like. Turner's very free verse is thoughtful without ever becoming overly sentimental, while Calder's full-page paintings nicely capture the mood of each speaker. A holiday book with lots of readings in it--this gets inside the Christmas spirit. Ilene Cooper

In a series of tender, free-verse poems, a house and its inhabitants are each given voice to express their thoughts about the holiday. The house itself talks about the curious children on Christmas morning: "My stairs know their quiet steps/ before dawn." The cat laments the loud bustle of visitors, while parents, grandparents and other family members all focus on what Christmas means (e.g., "This is the always house of the forever childhood and I am happy to be here"). Calder's sure-handed paintings fittingly depict an impressive range of perspectives, in keeping with the varied narrators. Soft light from candles, the moon, the Christmas tree and fireplace bring additional depth to a delicate palette and well-appointed details. Ages 5-8.
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