cover image Ruby the Christmas Donkey

Ruby the Christmas Donkey

Mirabel Cecil. Candlewick Press (MA), $3.99 (32pp) ISBN 978-0-7636-0716-6

Ruby's friends think her as precious as the gem she's named after in this deft tale of generosity, compassion and love. An aging donkey no longer able to grow a warm winter coat, Ruby faces her last days in icy misery. But the donkey's woodland pals literally give of themselves to weave Ruby a warm, colorful coat. To boot, her newly stylish appearance earns her a starring role in the Christmas pageant. Chipper animals rendered in soft, earth-toned watercolors, brighten the stark snowy landscape. Ages 4-up. (Oct.)