Just Right for Christmas

Cloth “so red and soft and Christmassy!” is the canvas for many holiday gifts in this warm and satisfying tale, reminiscent of the classic Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree. A king first purchases the luxurious cloth at market so his sewing maids can craft a cloak for his daughter. The leftover scraps are placed outside the back door, where the kitchen maid happens on them and makes a jacket for her mother. The subsequent fabric surpluses are passed along, becoming a hat for a badger, gloves for a squirrel, and a tiny mouse scarf in time for Christmas. Beardshaw’s mixed-media art depicts snowy, friendly scenes of camaraderie and generosity. Ages 3–up. (Sept.)