cover image Bellbird in a Flame Tree

Bellbird in a Flame Tree

Kilmeny Niland. Tambourine Books, $14 (0pp) ISBN 978-0-688-10797-0

From Down Under comes this fresh, winsome take on the favorite holiday song. Here the lyrics--and accompanying actions--are revved up a bit as animal species indigenous to Australia replace the traditional characters. Depictions of five caroling crocodiles (four hold red candles, the fifth sheet music), 10 dingoes dancing in a Conga line and 12 koalas clowning complete with fake noses are particularly witty. Though they sport whimsical costumes and accessories, Niland's realistically portrayed celebrants offer visual information for readers unfamiliar with Australian flora and fauna. A musical arrangement appears on the final spread of this spirited addition to the holiday bookshelf. Ages 3-up. (Oct.)