Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Reviews
Christmas Cookies: Bite-Size Holiday Lessons
Illustrator: Jane Dyer
Picture Book
For ages 4 to 6
HarperCollins, 2008 ISBN: 978-0060580247
For many families Christmas is not just a time for parties, Christmas trees, and gifts. It is also a time when children and adults come together to make Christmas cookies. Not only are these treats delicious to eat, but they also offer families the opportunity to step out of their busy lives for a moment to connect in a meaningful way.
In this picture book the author looks at the simple lessons that cookie making brings to light. Children will, as they prepare cookies, learn all kinds of things that are important. They will learn how to accept disappointment when there creations don't look the way they want them to look. They will learn how to clean up after themselves and to appreciate the fact that their grownups have taken the time to do something with them. They will learn to share their cookies with friends, neighbors, and those who are do not have cookies of their own. They will learn to celebrate the joy of being in a house that smells good and that is full Christmas cheer.
Using words that have great power such as "sharing," "reciprocate," "moderation," and "tradition" Amy Krouse Rosenthal explores ideas that we would all do well to think about. She uses these words to help her readers to remember the important things in life, and she also, incidentally, will help young readers to learn some new words.
Warm and festive illustrations accompany the simple text, and in the back of the book readers will find a recipe for tasty Christmas cookies.
