Santa Shark: A Great White Christmas

“Jingle shells, jingle shells, jingle all the waaaves!” A shark named Edgar and crab bestie Lotta prep for Santa Shark’s arrival in this goofy comic whose underwater setting proves ready made for abundant punning. First, Edgar educates Lotta, describing the would-be visitor as residing “at the North Pole in Finland,” where he builds toys with “eelves” and delivers gifts with a sleigh led by “magical seahorses.” Though Lotta seems skeptical, the duo proceed, writing “Christmas cods,” singing “corals,” and hanging a starfish atop a kelp-stalk tree, all loosely inked in Lowery’s characteristic style. When Edgar worries that a lack of snow will keep Santa Shark from visiting, Lotta imaginatively saves the day with help from some aquatic friends, making for a winning conclusion that emphasizes camaraderie as the key component of a happy holiday. Ages 3–6. (Oct.)