Santa Claude; Alex T. Smith

Claude has had a busy week in the run-up to Christmas eve. He and Sir Bobblysock have rescued PC Anne Cuffs from a Christmas tree decorating mishap, worked at the florist, sang some Christmas song with Carol Singer and her choir, and helped out Percy Package at the postoffice. When Mr & Mrs. Shinyshoes head out for a night of partying on Christmas Eve, Claude is rather looking forward to curling up with a good book. But there’s still time for one more good deed before Christmas Day and when he Claude hears footsteps in the house he springs into action to apprehend the unwanted house visitor. Unfortunately, he has only gone and captured Santa Claus and now Santa is handcuffed to the chair. With no key to unlock the cuffs and a sack full of presents to be delivered, can Santa Claude save Christmas?

This a fabulous Christmas adventure full of humour and plenty of Christmas fun and cheer. There is humour for everyone in Santa Claude. Children will delight in Claude and his antics and as an adult reader I was laughing at the puns. Get ready to meet PC Anne Cuffs who lives at Letsby Ave. and Carol Singer (the choir leader). The quirky red and white illustrations are a delight and the colours just constantly made me think of candy canes.

Even though Santa Claude is targeted at younger readers, there is no shortage of sumptuous language. Any book that tries to broaden children’s language gets a thumbs up from me and two stand-out words from Santa Claude are gambolled and titivating.

This is a perfect feel-good Christmas read and is ideal for children who are starting to read longer books. A great fit for those who demand a read that has more text than a picture book whilst still maintaining all the appeal of a picture book with illustrations on every page.

Recommended for 6+.