Santa thinks of all the children in the world, but who takes care of Santa? He works hard every day of the year, by the time he arrives home from delivering presents he is too tired to get up and cook Christmas Day dinner! After an extra half hour of sleep, Santa begins again, making toys for next year.
Only when a passing polar bear stops and asks if that’s it for Santa’s Christmas Day, the elves are embarrassed.
So, beginning with breakfast in bed, choosing a tree and decorating it, switching on the lights in the north pole: Santa has a wonderful day. He relaxes by the fire and reads a book, and the elves smile to hear his jolly rumbling laugh.
When the door opens, a special visitor brings gifts and then it is time for everyone to share a fabulous Christmas Day dinner.
Santa enjoys it so much, he decides to do it all again next year, and they do.
What a subtle reminder this is to help those who help others. To think of the ones who are putting in the hard work, day after day and deserve a rest and some fun too.
So much of what makes Christmas to many is included: the tree, the lights, the dinner, the gifts and not to forget, the time to relax and the opportunity to enjoy one another’s company.
With his characteristic humour, Mac Barnett ensures we think of Santa as not only the man in the red suit, but as a person, who appreciates being part of, not only Christmas Eve, but the day itself.
The soft colours Sydney Smith has chosen, serve to demonstrate the gentleness of this story. It is impressive how the characters’ emotions are so vividly shown and life in the North Pole is so relatable to.
This is a keeper.
@macbarnett
@sydneydraws
@penguinkids
Thank you to Penguin for the review copies.
