Jingle Bells

A variety of rambunctious animals are the real stars of Jeffers’s playful take on this omnipresent holiday song. The lyrics to the eponymous carol curl and sway across the pages, appearing alongside lustrous watercolor-and-ink paintings of a snowy forest. A brother and sister, bundled up in winter wear and carrying a wrapped gift for their grandmother, set out on a sleigh but tumble into the snow when a deer startles their horse. Though their sleigh is soon up and running, the kids’ dog runs after a rabbit, sparking a chase that leads to a search for their pet. Readers will be tickled to discover the identity of the children’s grandparents (Santa and the Mrs.) as well as the gift they have brought her—a pair of hockey skates that she and Santa try out in an ending that will trigger smiles, even if it’s a bit out of left field. Ages 4–8. (Sept.)