Santa Jaws

A punny concept is expanded into full-fledged scenes of merriment in this jolly romp, which imagines various shark species preparing for Christmas under the sea and awaiting a visit from Santa Jaws, the kindly Great White in a red cap. Heos employs carefully crafted verse: As elfin sharks “Toil in workshops deep and dark,/ Making toys from shelly things—/ A seal that squeaks, a ray that stings,” other shark families sing carols by lantern (shark) light. “Then Santa boards his merry sled/”—depicted as the bow of a shipwrecked vessel—“Pulled by hungry hammerheads.” Bernstein adorns each sleek digital spread with glowing jellyfish and colorful coral, as well as green kelp “trees” decorated with sand dollars and shells as well as topped with starfish. An inviting, informational, and celebratory book for shark fans. Back matter features more information on the shark species pictured. Ages 4–8. (Oct.)