Books that include letters from the characters within them are big favorites of mine. Growing up, I remember adoring The Jolly Pocket Mailman by Janet & Allan Ahlberg. Then, when I was older, I loved Dear Mr. Henshaw by Beverly Cleary. Recently, I received some Christmas books to review. As a Jewish mother, I do not read many Christmas books with my children. We tend to focus on Chanukah and generic winter books.
One of the books in the package caught my attention.
I was very intrigued and wanted to know more. Soon after that, I was in a book store with my mother and bumped into the New York City book from the series. I knew that minute that I had to sit down with NHL to take a tour of Washington, D.C. in this unique manner.
About the Twelve Days of Christmas Series:
The sensational Twelve Days of Christmas Series is back with six more places to celebrate: Arizona, Georgia, Iowa, Michigan, South Carolina, and Washington, D.C.! Based on the belobed son, every Twelve Days of Christmas book presents a host of entertaining, unusual, and kid-friendly facts about each locale. Plus, each of the now sixteen books are written and illustrated by authors and artists living in the featured area. Whether you sing along or just read aloud, The Twelve Days of Christmas series is the perfect holiday gift for the young and young at heart.
More about TheTwelve Days of Christmas in Washington, D.C.
Christmas in the nation’s capital is marvelous-and Olivia’s getting to see it all, from the gorgeous trees sparkling near the White House to the fabulous Sculpture Garden where she and cousin James ice skate on the frozen fountain surrounded by statues. And of course, there are plenty of monuments, memorials, and museums-like the amazing Smithsonian, with the ruby-red slippers from The Wizard of Oz-and adorable pandas in the zoo, too!
The Twelve Days of Christmas in Washington, D.C. – Written by Candice Ransom – Illustrated by Sarah Hollander – Sterling Children’s Books – On sale October 2010 – ISBN 9781402763946 – $12.95 – Ages 5 and up
What we thought:
I have to immediately say that I was beyond impressed with this book. The fun letters on each page to Olivia’s parents about her time in Washington, D.C. are packed with so much. Not only did my son learn about the different attractions within the Capital, but he also learned about people like Benjamin Franklin, Charles Lindbergh, Amelia Earhart, and many more. As we went on our adventure through parks, museums, monuments, and other places within Washington, D.C. the illustrations connected us to the topic. It was like we were there with Olivia, her cousin James, and Aunt Doris. I must also admit that at the end of each section, I was singing along to the tune about Washington, D.C. with my son.
NHL enjoyed listening to this unique story. He was curious about the items on each page and listened as Olivia’s letters helped to explain what was going on. After we finished reading NHL asked if we could go to Washington, D.C. to see all of the items. Check out a few of the pages from inside the book:
This was a fabulous moment as a parent and teacher. My kid was excited about learning and wanted more! Bravo to the creators of this series. I now look forward to checking out some of the other books in the series to read with my son about other states.
So what have you read recently? Please be sure to link up to your Tuesday Tales and/or leave a comment below. Include something you read on your own, with a child or someone else. Tuesday Tales are all about spreading the love for books.
