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Sunday, December 13, 2015

A Homemade Together Christmas, by Maryann Cocca-Leffler. Albert Whitman & Company, Thomas Allen & Son. 2015. $23.99 ages 4 and up

"Luca went to his room and
wrote some ideas in his
notepad.
bake a cake
"No, I can't use the oven
by myself."
plant a garden
"That won't work, it's not
spring."
make a warm hat
"But I don't know how to knit."

Gingerbread baked? Christmas tree up and decorated? Presents under the tree? What? No presents yet. Perhaps you and your family have chosen to do what Luca and his pig family are going to do. They are going to break tradition - this year they are going to make their own gifts for other family members. It's a grand idea! The secrets won't be revealed until Christmas morning.

Luca realizes that making a gift for his parents and sister Rosie may not be as easy as he thought it would be. He has ideas ... that is not his problem. He's just not sure how to carry out a plan. He talks with Momma and lists her suggestion. He likes the idea, but cannot make the paper bird he envisions. Dad is busy, too. He, too, has an idea to share with his son. Making honey granola for everyone is  a problem due to Luca's penchant for the sweet and delectable honey. OH, my!

Even Rosie has an idea for him. It seems perfect, until weather gets in the way. Reassurance from Momma that he need not worry sparks the perfect gift ... one we could all take to heart!

There is joy in this lovely family story and much to see in the artwork that accompanies it. Young readers will appreciate how hard Luca works to make Christmas special for everyone in his family.
They will enjoy taking time to notice the fun and coziness that adds charm and delight.

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