A Reindeer’s First Christmas/New Friends for Christmas (Dr. Seuss/Cat in the Hat) (Deluxe Pictureback) by Rabe, Tish (2012) Paperback by Tish RabeMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
Cute Companion Stories
These titles definitely work best as a package deal. Reading the reindeer version, I felt it odd to have so many critters crammed into the story. Reading the Christmas friends version, it made more sense. They make cute companion stories, but I’m not sure they’d stand well on their own.
Though I liked both books, they fell short of the work this author normally does. I felt the reindeer version missed an opportunity to embrace the traditional emotional elements of DR. Seuss’ brand (it could have tackled the fears of missing his 1st xmas eve) for me, the Christmas theme was misplaced in the friends version (it was an unnecessary inclusion except to elaborate on the separate reindeer tale).
Overall, these are cozy books of familiarity. I felt disappointed in the usual quality of Tish Rabe, but they are still fun for middle grade readers who love this brand. I’m sure I’m just looking at it from an adult view, so judge for yourself. Better yet, let your young readers decide.
J.M. NORTHUP 