The Night Before Christmas

Hobbie re-envisions this much-loved holiday poem through the eyes of a curious toddler and the family cat, along with the traditional patriarch narrator, in a radiant, gorgeously illustrated rendition. A snowy, magically moonlit sky and cozily appointed countryside home set the hushed, anticipatory scene for St. Nick’s wondrous visit. Wide-eyed astonishment on the faces of both father and child peeking at the action instantly convey the excitement of the season while watercolor and pen and ink spots, panels, and spreads present gentle, homey details—the toddler’s drop-seat pajamas, rustic garlands and stockings, a well-used fireplace. An artist’s note and information about Moore close out this volume. Ages 3–6. (Oct.)