The Christmas Gift

It's Christmas in the mouse ( New Baby , School , First Snow ) householda time for carols, presents, play, and sharing. While siblings try out trumpets, xylophones, lassos and other presents, the littlest mouse only has eyes for a mechanical, remote-controlled airplane. It is a gift so special it is taken along on the family's visit to Grandma's house. When the plane crashes, the littlest mouse is disconsolateuntil Grandpa rummages in the attic for a long-forgotten train set that proves similarly captivating. As usual, McCully's expressive, engaging watercolors capture all the antics and affection of this bustling brood. The illustrations convey all the anticipation that precedes Christmas and the merry mayhem that attends the day itself; they glow with the spirit of the season from start to finish. Ages 3-6. (September)