(3) K-3 Illustrated by Delana Bettoli. Seabrooke hypothesizes that a Christmas Eve day errand gave Moore inspiration for "A Visit from St. Nicholas." Delicately lined paintings in pastel but Christmassy shades are pretty, especially those of Clement's twilight journey through the almost pastoral Manhattan streets; a wintry map is the book's highlight. There are no source notes (a problem, as the poem's authorship is still disputed).

Reviewer: Roger Sutton | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2008

(2) PS Illustrated by Delana Bettoli. Cotten's rhyming couplets recount the Nativity story in quiet, cumulative verse that matches the tender mood of Bettoli's jewel-toned illustrations. The softly glowing paintings include details that are the book's real highlight. The hushed tone of both art and text make this an appropriate choice for lulling toddlers to sleep on Christmas Eve.

Reviewer: Tanya D. Auger | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2006

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Delana Bettoli. In this original tale, Mrs. McMurphy repeatedly and unsuccessfully tries to dispatch a grinning pumpkin that threatens to eat her once his teeth grow in. Over several days the pumpkin grows a nose, ears, and eyes. When he finally shows up with teeth, Mrs. McMurphy turns the tables on him. The illustrations effectively combine Halloween thrills with homey scenes of farm life.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta