Lucy's Christmas

Hall (Ox-Cart Man) and McCurdy (An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving) serve up a New England Christmas at the turn of the century-complete with hand-crafted presents, horse-drawn sleighs and a rousing community church service. Young Lucy takes great care preparing thoughtful gifts for her family, but even more anticipation surrounds the new Glenwood Kitchen Range that Lucy's parent's have ordered from the Sears Roebuck catalogue. Hall's generously descriptive text is infused with nostalgia and warmth (an author's note explains his personal connection to the characters). McCurdy's colored scratchboard drawings brim with rustic detail and are particularly fluid and expressive for artwork in this medium. Ages 5-8. (Oct.)