Synopsis
Baby Owl is just out in the snowy woods, playing with his sled… so why does Baby Hare insist on mistaking him for Santa? Is Santa the only one allowed to wear a red hat? And doesn’t Baby Hare know the difference between a sled and a sleigh?
It’ll take no less than a surprise visit from the jolly old man himself to settle this case of mistaken identity!
Children's Literature
While out in the woods pulling his sled, Baby Owl happens upon Baby Hare, who mistakes Baby Owl for Santa. As hard as he tries, Baby Owl cannot convince the little bunny that he is not Santa. When Baby Hare begins to cry, Baby Owl relents and says he is indeed Santa. Now Baby Hare says, "You're not!" and continues to cry. Just as Baby Owl begins to cry in frustration, the real Santa arrives. Baby Owl goes home and recounts the events to his mother. She listens, tucks him in bed with his favorite toy Owly, and puts his Christmas stocking at the end of the bed. Those who have met Baby Owl in previous stories and those who have not will enjoy this tale. Preschoolers will easily catch on to the story line, and will feel quite smug that they know Baby Owl is not really Santa. This Christmas book presents an interesting way of looking at similarities and differences. Facial expressions and character movements are strong in the boldly-outlined illustrations. Clean backgrounds and a clear focal point on each page make this appropriate for the intended audience. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo