One Splendid Tree

Not even the shadow of WWII can dampenthe magic of Christmas in this uplifting, albeit dense, tale of hope and community. With Daddy away fighting the war, times on the homefront are tough for Momma, Hattie and Junior. They will forgo holiday frills this year, but as far as Junior is concerned, without a tree it just isn't Christmas. An abandoned plant in their shabby apartment building soon proves the festive boost everyone needs, and all the building's tenants (even Daddy from afar) contribute to the decorating effort. At times, the character portraits appear a bit distorted, but in general the computer-generated collages convey a snazzy mix of period photos and illustration. Ages 4-8. (Oct.)