Christmas Cheer for the Grouchy Ladybug

“Christmas means joy for all”—almost. Carl’s enduring Grumpy Ladybug doesn’t have holiday spirit, even as the season’s sights, sounds, and traditions move into full swing: “Bells ring/ and everyone sings.../ Presents wait under the tree.” Carle’s painterly, patchwork-style art brings energy and richness to depictions of holiday decorations, falling snow, a fiddling grasshopper, barnyard animals, and Santa Claus. At last, after pages of “Bah, humbug!”s, the grouch’s smile turns upside down. A bright and evergreen addition to a holiday library. Ages 4–8. [em](Sept.) [/em]