Tough Cookie: A Christmas Story

Hemingway (Field Guide to the Grumpasaurus) bakes up a clever case of mistaken identity in this holiday treat–inspired tale. Fox can’t resist giving chase when a little cookie, still warm from the Christmastown Bakery’s oven, jogs in front of him, shouting, “Run, run, as fast as you can! You can’t catch me—I’m the Sugar Cookie Man!” But just as readers think they’re in for a certain gingerbread-flavored story, Hemingway flips the script. Cookie turns out to be both a slowpoke and a terrible-tasting tooth-breaker, according to Fox. After several attempts to sweeten up, Cookie learns that he was created to decorate, not be dined upon, and he takes his rightful place on the town tree, relishing that he is “one tough cookie.” The smiling, anthropomorphic goodies that populate the streets of Christmastown demand a close look, and the author’s snappy pacing and silly scenarios keep the giggles coming. Includes recipes for sugar and ornament cookies. Ages 4–8. (Sept.)