Olive, the Other Reindeer

Name: Olive, the Other Reindeer
ISBN: 9780811818070

by Vivian Walsh

For children who might feel a little out of place, this heartwarming tale celebrates believing in yourself and finding your own unique way to shine.

Find on Bookshop.org Find on Amazon Save

About This Book

A parent might reach for this book when their child is starting to feel different from their peers or is worried they don't quite fit in. It's a wonderfully gentle and humorous entry point into conversations about self-worth. The story follows Olive, a sweet dog who mishears the lyrics to a famous Christmas song and becomes convinced she is one of Santa's reindeer. She bravely heads to the North Pole, where her unique dog skills, like fetching and sniffing, end up being exactly what's needed to save Christmas. For ages 3-7, this book is a heartwarming holiday tale that subtly champions the idea that our differences are not weaknesses, but our greatest strengths.

Self-Confidence & Identity Animals Holidays & Seasonal Being Different Humor Dogs Resilience & Perseverance Adventure

What Parents Should Know

Mild PerilMild

The sleigh team faces a few small obstacles, but they are resolved quickly and with humor.

Sensitive Topics

The core topic is identity and belonging, handled through a gentle, metaphorical lens. Olive's feeling of being a reindeer, despite being a dog, is never treated with negativity. The book has a secular Christmas setting focused on Santa and gift-giving. The resolution is entirely hopeful: Olive's differences are affirmed as strengths, and she finds her place without having to change who she is at her core.