The Spirit of Christmas: A Giving Tradition

PreS-Gr 1—Drew, a child of affluence, loves the many gifts he gets but wonders, "Do all children get this many presents?" His mother admits that "sometimes families can't give presents, even if they really want to." Generous Drew worries about how he could share his gently used toys with needy children and decides to write a letter to Santa asking for help getting them to other kids. Santa responds with a letter and a magic "giving sack," which Drew fills with toys and clothes and leaves under his tree. Santa and the elves happily redistribute them and Drew is proud that he helped others. Santa leaves him a special bell to thank him. While the sentiment behind this technicolor extravaganza is laudable, the treacly presentation, bouncing type, and awkward illustrations combine to overwork the slight message and make this title one to skip.—Anne Connor, Los Angeles Public Library