Through the North Pole Snow

In this quiet tale envisioning Santa's off-season, a hungry little white fox in search of something tasty finds a special new friend at the North Pole. Even without the clue of a red Santa suit drying by the fire, readers will instantly recognize the red-sweater-clad man, "with a great round belly and a fox-white beard," who welcomes the fox into his house. The fox and the man, who presents as white, settle in for a long winter's nap and awake refreshed in spring, when the man busies himself crafting loads of new toys. Months later, when the first snow--and thousands of letters--float down from the sky, a familiar routine of checking lists, loading gifts, and hitching flying reindeer begins. Faber's evocative text invites readers into the fox's discovery of the man's true identity, while Jones's textured, mixed-media artwork fills in details, depicting Santa's peaceful lifestyle amid a crisp rugged landscape and a rustic house where a lap fox feels right at home. Ages 3-7. (Oct.)

PreS-Gr 1—While out searching for something to eat on a cold, dark night, a cute white fox finds dinner in an unexpected place: Santa's house! Lured there by the warmth and light emanating from his rooftop, the fox quickly makes himself at home as Santa shares his dinner and bedroom. The mixed media artwork depicts several instances of onomatopoeia included in the text ("Thump! Again and again, it sprang up and punched down into the thick white blanket.") and gives readers a sneak peek of what Santa is up to during all four seasons. The fox is close by while Santa does chores and tasks that help him get ready for next Christmas. Lists are made, toys are created, and letters that fall from the sky are read. Santa and the fox become inseparable. A reference to Santa's love of cookies brings in a bit of humor. The cozy picture book ends with a lovely scene of a happier Santa and the fox, both cheerfully content with their new arrangement at home. VERDICT A beautifully illustrated holiday picture book for people looking for a unique Christmas story.—Tanya Boudreau