Little Robin’s Christmas

Little Robin red... vest? So it goes in this mash-up of origin story and selfless holiday tale. Little Robin, a brown bird with a natty wardrobe of seven knitted sweater vests, plans to count down the week before Christmas by sporting a different festive garment each day. But every time he bundles up and heads out into the snow, he meets a different shivering friend—many larger and fluffier than Little Robin—who seems to need a warm vest more than he does. By Christmas Eve, Little Robin is a freezing, vestless ball of fluff on a nearby rooftop, when Santa rescues him and brings him to the North Pole for some TLC—and a special gift to reward his kindness: a “very, very special” red vest that will keep him warm “forever.” Though the bird’s generosity to the point of hypothermia may concern readers, Fearnley’s pairing of frosty winterscape and cheerful hero make for a well-meaning story. Ages 2–5. [em](Sept.) [/em]