Everyone is invited to Christmas A birthday party for Jesus

Lonely Little Raccoon finds an invitation to a birthday party for Jesus one day while investigating some mysterious music.This little raccoon is unusual in her diurnal ways, but her habits have isolated her. One winter day she hears music and laughter and so ventures beyond her comfortable tree to investigate. When she finds the invitation blowing in the snow, she's afraid that she isn't welcome since she doesn't know who Jesus is and it isn't addressed to her. The raccoon continues following the tune carried on the wind and runs into chatty Little Hedgehog, who cheerfully greets her with a "Merry Christmas!" and invites her to help look for decorations. In a forest clearing, lots of animals are gathering to get ready for the birthday party. Little Raccoon sadly admits to the hedgehog that she doesn't think she belongs there, but the happy little creature announces, "But of course you are!Everyone is invited by Jesus!" The animals patiently explain who Jesus is and why they are celebrating. Woodland scenes in pastel colors are the backdrop for the sweetly drawn, rounded figures of the animals. Young children will easily relate to Little Raccoon's feelings of loneliness and lack of belonging. The welcoming circle of animals underscores the clearly spelled out Christmas message of love, friendship, and inclusion.This sequel to A Birthday Party for Jesus (2017) is tailor-made for a Sunday school Advent lesson. (Picture book/religion. 3-6) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.