
Reach for this book when the holiday 'gimmies' have taken over and your child's Christmas list is becoming a source of stress rather than excitement. While Ann Estelle starts the season obsessed with becoming the Queen of Christmas by securing every toy on her massive list, the story follows her realization that the best parts of the holiday are actually the traditions, the baking, and the time spent with her family. It is a perfect choice for parents wanting to model gratitude and a shift from materialism to presence. Best for ages 4 to 8, Mary Engelbreit's signature cozy illustrations provide a comforting backdrop for a gentle lesson on what truly makes a season magical.
The book is secular in its approach to Christmas, focusing on Santa and family traditions rather than religious themes. There are no heavy sensitive topics. The resolution is realistic and hopeful.
An elementary student who is feeling a bit too much pressure about their 'big gift' or a child who loves art, crafting, and detailed illustrations.
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Sign in to write a reviewThis book can be read cold. Parents may want to pay attention to the detailed borders and illustrations, as they offer many opportunities for 'I Spy' style engagement. A parent might reach for this after hearing 'I want that' for the twentieth time or seeing their child melt down over a toy catalog.
Younger children (4-5) will enjoy the bright colors and the fun of the long list. Older children (7-8) will better grasp the irony of Ann Estelle's shift from wanting things to enjoying experiences.
The unique Mary Engelbreit aesthetic makes this feel like a 'keepsake' book. It handles the topic of greed without being preachy, using humor and relatable childhood 'obsession' to make its point.
Ann Estelle is a determined young girl who spends the weeks leading up to Christmas crafting an elaborate, miles-long wish list. She is convinced that receiving these items is the key to a perfect holiday. However, as she engages in various family traditions, from decorating the tree to making cookies, she begins to notice that these moments feel better than the anticipation of the gifts. By Christmas morning, her perspective has shifted toward appreciation for her family and the memories they made.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.