Dear Santasaurus

Is one letter to Santa (or Santasaurus) really enough to ensure a spot on the Nice List? Not for Ernest B. Spinosaurus, the tiny purple dino who writes 16 letters to the dinosaur in the red suit over the course of a year. Throughout, Ernest never fails to emphasize his good behavior, downplay his mischievous habits, and remind Santasaurus that he’d love a Jurassic Turbo Scooter X9. The jokes begin to feel tired and repetitious after a year’s worth of reiteration, though Kaminsky’s lurid scenes of juvenile dinosaur destruction help keep the energy level high. Ages 5–8. Author’s agent: Lori Kilkelly, Rodeen Literary Management. Illustrator’s agent: Elena Giovinazzo, Pippin Properties. (Oct.)