WILLOW AT CHRISTMAS

Pastoral watercolors set a quietly reflective tone for this distinctly English tale of a small teddy bear celebrating the holidays with his friends at Paradise Farm. Presented mostly in panels and in oval and square vignettes, the art suits the cozy (about 8" by 7½") format. Ashforth offers a charmingly idealized view of the holidays, from decorating and baking to a Christmas Eve celebration with a trio of other teddies. The illustrations include a priceless view of Willow's best friend, Little Pig Pink, hopefully clutching his as-yet-empty stocking in his sleep. Ages 3-6. (Oct.)