Christmas in the Time of Billy Lee

Jerdine Nolen, illus. by Barry Moser, Disney-Jump at the Sun, $16.99 (40p) ISBN 978-0-7868-1871-6

A girl's deepest wishes come true one Christmas with the help of a magical friend. Ellie confides in and follows advice from Billy Lee, a pal that her parents insist is make-believe. But when snow falls for the first time in 50 years and Mama and Daddy announce some happy news, Ellie knows that it has something to do with Billy Lee. The acknowledgment of money troubles and other concerns makes the magic feel all the sweeter, as Moser's bucolic winter landscapes and cozy portraits convey a hushed wonderment and warm family bonds. Ages 4–7. (Sept.)

Featured Children's Reviews

Aubrey Hartman

Clare, the undead fox of Deadwood Forest, is cast as a monster by the local children who gather each Halloween around the forest’s edge to chant about how he “waits to feast/ On Continue reading »

Tony Keith Jr

Poet and educator Keith (How the Boogeyman Became a Poet) delivers a poignant, hip-hop-fueled collection of poetry that’s equal parts memoir, love letter, and rallying cry to Continue reading »

Randy Boyagoda

Sixteen-year-old Sabel is puzzled by tonight’s family meal, which seems to be a special spread of her and her four siblings’ favorite foods. Sickness and savagery have toppled Continue reading »

Cheryl Willis Hudson

Willis Hudson movingly exalts the power of African American spirituals in a lyrics showcase that pairs existing verses with feelings they can evoke. On the first page, a Black Continue reading »