Sharing Christmas

Tharlet's (the Davy books) sweet-faced woodland creatures, including a squirrel in a dashing red scarf and a fawn wearing some sort of folksy ear mittens, are saved by the bell. Well, at least the sound of jingle bells, which leads them to food—a scarcity in the harsh early winter. The mystery jinglers join the animals for a festive and snowy Christmas potluck, heralding the true spirit of sharing. Tharlet's amiable bestiary is a memorably winning crew—wide-eyed, gentle and friendly. And Westerland's light touch (“Osgood told the story of the first Christmas. Donkeys do that especially well”) ensures that her uplifting story never gets treacly. Ages 4-up. (Sept.)