Summer

Australia's summer begins in December and therefore coincides with the Christmas season, which is celebrated in this picture book. The sun rises one warm country day in the farmlands; the children awaken and join in as the family prepares for Christmas dinner. In spite of adversity (``Dad's got measles, Mum's got flu, Auntie Lil's locked in the loo''), the family is hard at work making such traditional Australian foods as saveloys (sausages) and pikelets (pancakes). Later, ``Puddin' steamin' in the pot,/ Pork and cracklin',/ spuds, the lot,'' round out the Yuletide feast served outdoors under leafy trees. A storm forces them to run inside, but the family emerges later to sit on the front porch to gaze at the stars. The unusual Christmas setting and exotic words are enhanced by the moody, softly shaded illustrations. Gentle touches of family humor are in evidence throughout this pleasant and unusual offering. Ages 3-8. (May)