The Christmas Extravaganza Hotel

PreS-Gr 2—Bear, who lives far from the hustle and bustle of the town, was hoping for a quiet and simple Christmas. His curiosity is piqued when he hears a beeping horn from a car outside of his house. He is surprised when he finds a cheery little frog, with luggage piled high, at his door. Frog is sure that he has just arrived at The Christmas Extravaganza Hotel. Poor Frog. His map is upside down and the place he is looking for is on the other side of the world. Bear sees how devastated Frog is and wants to help. He knows that he can't give Frog the Christmas he's expecting but he wants to try. They bake cookies, admire the beautiful tree outside that sparkles with real snow, see real reindeer, and even have a snowball fight. This is a delightful holiday book that focuses on caring for others, friendship, and enjoying the simple things in life. The large, bright illustrations are captivating. There is enough detail and action in the pictures to be entertaining but not too much to be distracting. The two main characters are sweet and entertaining. Frog is energetic and full of life and Bear is quietly gentle.