ECONOGAL

Another trio of children’s books is highly recommended for the youngsters in your life. Two of the offerings are by Jane Monroe Donovan: Winter’s Gift and Small Medium & Large. The third entry is the funny Santa’s Underwear written by Marty Rhodes Figley and illustrated by Marty Kelley.

If I could choose an illustrator for my own children’s stories, Jane Monroe Donovan would be at the top of my list. I love her artwork. Small Medium & Large is a prime example. The picture book has little writing, but the illustrations paint a wonderful tale. I can envision my middle grandchild weaving a story as the pages are turned.

Donovan’s 2004 release Winter’s Gift is a classic. In addition to the beautiful drawings, the illustrator-turned-author pens one of the most heartwarming stories of hope I have ever read geared toward young children.

The plot of Winter’s Gift is of an elderly man facing his first Christmas without his wife. Simultaneously, a mare loses her herd in the middle of a storm and is found just outside of the man’s cabin. Fortunately, the man discovers the mare in time to move her to the safety of a barn. Then a Christmas miracle occurs. My heart tugged. Winter’s Gift is the most moving of yet another trio of children’s books reviewed.

The third book to share is Santa’s Underwear. Figley’s hilarious tale is perfectly illustrated by Kelley. Even though Santa is in charge of Christmas, he celebrates all the holidays-with appropriately matched underwear. I am torn on which of the grandkids will receive this charming tale. The delightful story is one destined to be a “read it again” addition to the home library.

Multiple books are included in many of my children’s book reviews. Maybe it is a need to share my love of books with all. Or maybe an effort to be fair with the trio of grandkids. But it is hard to just buy one book geared to the youngest generation. The holidays are upon us and these three children’s books are great for giving. And I am certain there will be yet another trio of children’s books reviewed in the future.