Waiting for Santa

Metzger’s sugary tale centers on five forest friends who, spurred on by optimistic Bear, prepare for Santa’s arrival. When Badger grumbles that Santa won’t come (“He doesn’t even know we’re here!”), Bear insists otherwise (“We just have to believe!”). Mole, Mouse, Hedgehog, and a reluctant Badger pitch in to make sure that Santa will be able to locate them. Bear finds a large star that the animals, perched atop one another, place at the top of their decorated pine tree, before tumbling to the ground “with a bump!” Edgson’s uncluttered pictures keep the friends, who resemble cuddly stuffed animals, front and center. In an especially tender image, they huddle near the tree, whose lustrous yellow star glows against a blue night sky, awaiting Santa, who (naturally) doesn’t disappoint. A simple, reassuring holiday tale that emphasizes friendship and belief. Ages 3–7. (Sept.)