The Twelve Days of Christmas

It may take readers 12 days to fully appreciate Vagin's (The King's Equal) striking watercolor paintings of centuries-ago Christmas revelers making merry in a vibrant wintry setting. Memorable scenes abound: nine lady skaters dancing on the ice, bedecked in lavish beaded gowns, 10 lords leaping and roughhousing in playful animal masks, etc. And a regal-looking couple, cozy in richly colored fur-trimmed cloaks, appears throughout, adding a layer of elegance to the proceedings. An informative endnote and musical score are fine closing touches. All ages. (Oct.)