Age 04-08. 4 Stars. This brief book is masterfully crafted, and through Dalgiesh’s easy-to-read prose the young reader gets a picture of Jonathan’s close-knit, loyal, and sometimes overwhelming colonial family. In one day Jonathan experiences the pleasures of the outdoors, the comforts of the hearth, and the terror of a small child alone at night… Sensitive children might be troubled by the scene in which Jonathan meets the bears, but his quick rescue provides a comforting end to this suspenseful story. This is a great early chapter book, either for young listeners or young readers.

Age 04-08. 3 Stars. This is a storybook version of the popular Christmas opera by the same author…. The story touchingly evokes the longing endured by our world until the advent of Christ. The illustrations are very nice, but the writing reads more like a screenplay than a book. Those who have enjoyed the opera will be able to relive it through the book, but the book alone may not bring the same pleasure.

Age Adult. 4 Stars. This book takes the intimidation out of planning an original party by providing easy-to-implement, well thought through plans that can be executed by anyone, to whatever degree their energy (not their creativity) allows. For unimaginative parents like myself who don’t want to spend money on a prefab themed party but do want to include their kids in preparing to host their friends for a celebration, this is a wonderful resource.

Age 04-08. 5 Stars. The Brambly Hedge books are a wonderful series characterized by exceptional artwork. The mice in the colony live under a hedgerow, sustaining a very human-like 18th-Century society, which is rendered exquisitely in miniature detail…. this simple story is carried by the masterful artwork. The characters are likable and hardworking, and communal life is very convivial. A wonderful reading excursion, aesthetically satisfying and supportive of the value of community.