It's Not Easy Being Santa Claus

September 1, 2023
Tiring of his life as the famous Christmas gift-giver, Santa tries out other careers. The holiday pressure is really getting to Santa. Fed up with piles of letters to read, reindeer arguments, and Mrs. Claus' attempts to get him to eat more vegetables, he sends everyone on vacation and looks for a new job. The department store only wants him to play Santa for the customers, he gets a stomachache from eating too many bakery treats, and he gives away all the toy store's items instead of selling them. While trying his hand at being a mail carrier, Santa encounters a little girl cat who reminds him of the love and joy of being Santa. In this picture book, Santa Claus is a jolly polar bear, and all the characters are animals. The cutesy, cartoon-like illustrations bring the story to life, thanks to sweet details and well-drawn action scenes. A tiny mouse accompanies Santa on his career-finding journey, which makes for a fun find for readers on each page. The story wraps up with a happy ending--a relief to little listeners--and the definitive, reassuring, "It's not easy being Santa Claus...But there's no one else I'd rather be!" There's a nice message about keeping the joy of Christmas at heart, but also that sometimes we need to remind ourselves why we do the things we love. (This book was reviewed digitally.) A fun and meaningful holiday story wrapped up in a heartwarming package. (Picture book. 3-6)

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September 29, 2023

PreS-Gr 2-It's not yet Christmas, and Santa the polar bear is feeling grumpy. He has too much work to do, along with pushy reindeer and mischievous elves to manage. He's annoyed with all of the silliness around him-is that a penguin-elf wearing his slippers?! Worst of all, Mrs. Claus has decided to surround him with veggies instead of cookies. What is Santa to do? He sends his crew on vacation and sets out to explore new career paths. He loves making toys and everything about desserts; surely he can find a new job that he will enjoy! Santa's investigation leads him to some new places, and he learns more about what it is that he really values the most. Sadler tells a silly, sweet tale. Simple vocabulary will allow even the smallest readers to understand why Santa is unhappy, and to follow along as he is reminded that hard work can bring beautiful things, and that love is the true gift at Christmas. Laberis's illustrations fit the text well and add whimsical holiday humor. Christmas trees, candy canes, snow, and stockings abound. Readers will want a moment to take in the busy and expressive little animals that fill every page. VERDICT This simple holiday message paired with festive illustrations is sure to leave readers feeling jolly and excited for holiday fun.-Jill Shepard

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