FICTION

The Last Christmas Tree

by Stephen KRENSKY
illus. by Pascal Campion. 32p. Dial. Oct. 2014. Tr $16.99. ISBN 9780803737570. LC 2013034357.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 3—In a parking lot full of beautiful firs, spruces, and pines stands one scrawny little tree, filled with the spirit of the season and hoping to be purchased. The weeks go by, and the other trees get selected, but not this one--not even for free. Then on Christmas Eve, the little tree, now standing alone, hears a jingling sound; out of the sky appears a man in a red suit and a sleigh, who whisks the tree high up into the sky, and then down to his own magical home where a warm hearth and presents await. This heartwarming, magical tale with an encouraging message is simply told, easily reaching a young audience. The full-color acrylic, cartoon illustrations enhance the mood of the story. Great for one-on-one reading or storytime.—Maureen Wade, Los Angeles Public Library
One Christmas tree doesn't have the physical allure of its neighbors, and its unbridled enthusiasm isn't enough to catch the attention of shoppers. Then comes a faint jingling sound...and the little tree finds a home way up north. Campion's bright digital illustrations imbue the skimpy tree with personality, while stark scenes of its isolation elicit empathy. A satisfying, hopeful holiday offering.
What had been an empty lot is now bursting with Christmas trees waiting to be bought by loving families. One tree -- short, bowed over, scant on branches -- doesn't have the physical allure of its neighbors, and its unbridled enthusiasm isn't enough to catch the attention of shoppers. Come Christmas Eve, the little guy is alone on the lot, its only ornament a sign reading "free." Then comes a faint jingling sound…and before long the little tree finds a welcome home way up north. Campion's bright digital illustrations imbue the skimpy tree with personality, while stark scenes of its isolation elicit empathy. Part underdog story, part affirmation of the true meaning of Christmas, this is a satisfying, hopeful holiday offering. katrina hedeen
Reviewed by Maureen Wade , Oct 01, 2014

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