Children's books make terrific gifts. Here are eight new holiday children's books for 2008 that are sure to put a smile on the recipient's face.
Amazing Peace: A Christmas Poem by Maya Angelou, illustrated by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher (Schwartz & Wade) - Maya's Christmas poem was first read at the 2005 White House tree-lighting ceremony and it comes alive again with illustrations from Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher.
Bear Stays Up for Christmas by Karma Wilson, illustrated by Jane Chapman (Margaret K. McElderry) - Bears usually hibernate for Winter but Bear has never seen a Christmas because of his habit of hibernating. With the help of his friends Bear is determined to experience Christmas as he tries to stay awake by wrapping presents and decorating.
Christmas Farm by Mary Lyn Ray, illustrated by Barry Root (Harcourt) - This fascinating children's book provides a a lyrical, behind-the-scenes look at the intricate lives of Christmas trees with beautiful watercolor illustrations.
Gingerbread Friends by Jan Brett (Putnam Juvenile) - Poor Gingerbread Baby needs to find some friends, but he is having trouble. This is a sequel to Jan Brett's 1999 book The Gingerbread Baby. Gorgeous illustrations and a delightful protagonist make this one a keeper.
A Flake Like Mike by Mike Reiss, illustrated by Chris Capuozzo (HarperCollins) - A shy snowflake named Mike who becomes a hero when he dares to be different. Sold exclusively at Sak's.
The Lump of Coal by Lemony Snicket, illustrated by Brett Helquist (HarperCollins) - This is a story about a lump of coal who can think, talk, and move itself around. We found it absolutely hysterical, and that was before we started in on the spiked eggnog. It contains yet more upsetting words from author Lemony Snicket, who we absolutely adore.
Snow Party by Harriet Ziefert, illustrated by Mark Jones (Blue Apple Books) - Snow men, snow women and snow children gather for a special party in this delightful children's book full of wonderful snow people illustrations.
A Very Marley Christmas - John Grogan, illustrated by Richard Cowdrey (HarperCollins) - Author John Grogan has turned his bestselling Marley & Me story into a Christmas children's book with illustrations from Richard Cowdrey. Poor excited
Marley can't help but cause trouble and make a mess of the Christmas tree and the decorations. In case you've been off the planet for the last few weeks, Marley & Me starring Jennifer
Aniston and Owen Wilson opens in theaters on Christmas Day.
