Book 139

Santa Retires, by David Biedrzycki, Charlesbridge, 2012.  Preschool to Early Elementary.

I would have bought Santa Retires based on the cover.  In fact, I kind of did.  The story is adorable, and understandable.  It's not really a stretch to think that Santa would want to retire:  He spends an entire year building toys, and then has to zip around the world in one night to deliver them.  It must be exhausting.  And such a thankless job, really. Poor Santa.  He needs a break, and David Biedrzycki gives him one.

There is something very special about David Biedrzycki's artwork.  There is a dash of reality mixed in with loads of humor.  There are small touches that make each illustrated page a delight.  The "weather" page is hilarious.  I love how pretty and glamorous Mrs. Claus is.  She's is proof that you don't have look frumpy to look Christmas-y -- not one novelty sweater in sight.  My little boy likes the artwork because the slimmed-down Santa bears a strong resemblance to his Grandpap.  And you don't want to overlook the crab or the mouse.