Grace and the Christmas Angel (Guardian Angels #1)

In an uplifting series launch that would feel right at home on the Hallmark Channel, the mother-son authorial team—Riley, who died in 2021, and Whittaker—feature the tried-and-true concept of gathering loved ones at Christmas. Young Grace, a girl portrayed with light brown skin and dark hair, knows the butterflies she feels about her solo in the school’s Christmas Eve nativity will dissipate when her father, a fishing boat captain, keeps his promise to attend the event. But a fierce storm intervenes, keeping Daddy out on the rough seas and sending Grace to bed gripping an angel tree-topper and whispering wishes for his safe return. Luckily, Hope the Christmas Angel homes in on Grace’s quiet plea, and creates calm paths for many boats’ clear passage, facilitating a heart-bursting reunion on Christmas day in the morning. Ray’s earth-toned paintings feature quaint seaside village cottages, roiling waves, bobbing ships, and a barefoot, pale-skinned angel, exuding loads of love and comfort. Ages 5–7. (Sept.)