The Best Parts of Christmas

Like many children (and adults), Fritz—who first appeared in I Feel Five! (2014)—sees his family’s Christmas tree as an emblem of the season. Even after all the presents have been opened, the tree still retains its gentle magic. But when it comes time to take the brown, desiccated tree away, “Fritz is not ready for Christmas to be over.” As in the previous book, Fritz proves an able and thoughtful guide for children facing a transition. In this case, he beats his post-holiday funk by placing one of the tree’s branches in a vase in his room and decorating it, remembering, “almost anything can be an ornament.” Saying goodbye to Christmas can be sad; Murguia sensitively reminds readers that memories of good times linger even when the holidays themselves must pass. Ages 3–7. Agent: Elena Giovinazzo, Pippin Properties. [em](Sept.) [/em]