CHRISTMAS MORNING

This book pays homage to "The House That Jack Built" and gives a nod to The Nutcracker , too. Beginning with "the house where the children slept," accompanied by a picture-perfect two-story house in sugar plum hues, the tale introduces a reindeer-drawn sleigh with a roly-poly Saint Nick at the reins, toy-filled stockings and a dramatic tussle between a doll, Rat King and Nutcracker, before arriving at a cheerful, peaceful Christmas morning. Subtly stylized oil paintings create a light, sunny feel—except when the Rat King stirs up some slightly darker, fast-flying action. Suggestions for read-aloud hand motions are included. Ages 3-5. (Oct.)