The perfect present

In a story whose plot mirrors that of O'Henry's "The Gift of the Magi," Jones (The Very Grumpy Day) introduces Bella and Bobby, two bear siblings dive into their holiday shopping. Bobby sees a flag that would be perfect for Bella's tricycle, but the only way he can afford it is by trading in his own scooter. Meanwhile, Bella buys a bell for Bobby's scooter, but must exchange her trike to get it. In a sugary conclusion, the siblings reveal that they're happy just to have each other on Christmas morning: "You really are the best sister ever," Bobby tells Bella. Though the two bears should probably work on their bartering skills (flags and bells for scooters and tricycles, even well-used ones, aren't great trades), Pedlar's (Friends to the Rescue) ultra-cozy artwork plays up the theme of selfless generosity, which Santa rewards in the end. Ages 4-7. (Sept.) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.

PreS-Gr 1-Jones has simplified O. Henry's famous short story "The Gift of the Magi" in a child-centric scenario. Sibling bears Bella and Bobby each sacrifice something they love to make the other happy. Bobby's scooter is traded for a flag to adorn Bella's tricycle. Bella's trike is forfeited for a bell to jazz up Bobby's scooter. Since both swaps are obviously lopsided in favor of the shopkeepers, their scruples seem suspect. But after the siblings exchange their Christmas presents, hug, and say they don't mind having given up their favorite toys, gifts from Santa are discovered under the tree. Surprise! The trike and scooter are both there, fixed up as good as new! A note explains that Santa knows what kind, thoughtful bears they are. Were the shopkeepers behind this? No parents are shown in the story. Bella and Bobby simply take it for granted that Santa resolved everything, and ride off to enjoy the crisp winter day. Pedler's art is charming and colorful, depicting woodland creatures with lovely expressions in a pleasant holiday wonderland. The book design and text placement are exemplary. VERDICT Children who aren't confounded by the mysterious conclusion will enjoy this idealized fable.-Linda Israelson, Los Angeles Public Library © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.