“SANTA’S HAT,” by Linda Bleck, Running Press Kids, Sept. 25, 2012, Hardcover, $16.95 (ages 4 and up)
It’s Christmas Eve and Santa can’t find his hat. The Jolly Old Elf wants to join the North Pole’s annual snow festival, but he needs something to cover his head. When Mrs. Claus suggests he tries a new hat for the day, Santa goes off to investigate. With the help of his dogs, Bell and Bow, Santa tries on a myriad of options and lets his imagination go wild. Just when he finds the perfect substitute, the elves unveil a special surprise that leaves everyone smiling.
If you’re looking for a book with some kind of holiday message, don’t pick “Santa’s Hat.” If you are looking for a fun romp then this is the place for you. Dynamic illustrations and energized text make this an enjoyable read. There’s no commercialization here, just imagination and pure joy.
