(2) 1-3 Illustrated by Robert Dunn. Created by Gertrude Chandler Warner. This prequel depicts the Alden children happy at home with their parents. The centerpiece is a homespun circus the kids create, an activity that captures the era's low-tech, child-driven entertainment. MacLachlan, in her no-nonsense way, doesn't dwell on the story's inevitable poignant conclusion. Sketchlike pencil illustrations depict the tale's highs and lows and complement MacLachlan's smooth, accessible narrative.

Reviewer: Susan Dove Lempke | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2012

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Robert Dunn. This slight story aimed only at NYC residents or tourists describes Santa's Christmas Eve journey to the Big Apple. In this very modern take, his "Santa-nav" (GPS) doesn't help in a blizzard, but Santa is saved when his youngest reindeer hears the bells of St. Patrick's Cathedral. The usual city hot spots are mentioned in the purposeful text and pictured in the chipper illustrations.

Reviewer: Melinda Greenblatt