Out for a walk one December day, a fox stumbles across Santa asleep against a tree in the woods, and thinking that Christmas has come early, gathers all of the other animals. When Santa, upon awakening, declares that he might not be in good enough shape to deliver presents this year, the animals are dismayed. Then the magical gift giver explains that presents aren't what the holiday is about, going on to tell them his favorite story—the true story of Christmas...

Originally published in author Hisako Aoki's native Japan as サンタクロースのすきなおはなし ("Santakurosu no sukina ohanashi / Santa Claus's Favorite Story"), this lovely Christmas picture book features a heartwarming story which emphasizes the original religious narrative around which the holiday is centered, one which is presented by a figure who has become a symbol of the more secular side of celebrations. That juxtaposition is certainly interesting, as is the gift giver's role in deprecating presents as a key aspect of Christmas. The accompanying artwork by expatriate Bulgarian illustrator Ivan Gantschev, who lives and works in Germany, is quite charming, both in its depiction of Santa and the animals, and of the Nativity story. I don't know that I loved this quite as much as I expected to, given the delightful cover and the appealing premise, but I still found it solidly engaging, and would recommend it to picture book readers seeking Christmas picture books bridging the religious/secular divide. ( )

It can be tempting to forget the why of Christmas. Linger over the why with this gentle story.

Media:
water color
Critique:
It is a good fantasy book for it introduces how Christmas came in a different view. The story comes from the mouth of the Santa Clause, which makes the story sounds more "convincing" and attractive to children.
Age appropriate:
Kindergarten kids ( )

Discover the true meaning of the holidays as Santa tells the story of the First Christmas.

As fox is slipping through the woods, she sees and hears a visitor, and slinks around a tree to discover Santa Claus! The fox calls on the other animals to come and see, and their chatter awakens the sleeping Saint Nick. He begins to talk to the eager animals. When he mentions off-handedly that he might be too tired to deliver presents that year, the animals panic, and ask him what will become of Christmas. Santa Claus laughs at their idea that Christmas is all about presents, and proceeds to tell them the real meaning behind the season: the birth story of Jesus Christ. Afterwards, the animals revise their way of thinking, realizing that the greatest gift of Christmas is love.

The story is simple but sweet. The language is not innovative or eloquent, but the idea of having Santa Claus telling others about the birth of Jesus is amazing. The Christian holiday of Christmas (and yes, the same holiday has other roots and influences, but the current incarnation that is celebrated today is based on the Christian celebration) has been converted into stories of Santa and elves for so many. As a Christian mom, who loves the fun Santa stories associated with my favorite holiday of the year, but wants my daughters to still understand and embrace the spiritual center of the holiday, I find this book to be a wonderful way to show that Jesus is the star of the show. Also, the illustrations are adorable. I am delighted that I found this underrated picture book during my years as a bookstore employee, and it has become a regular feature of the Christmas season for my family. ( )