Mrs Claus by Renee Price. Illus. by Travis Price

Another book to add to the Christmas collection in a library, Mrs Claus celebrates all the work that Mrs Claus does to ensure that everything goes smoothly for Santa Claus as he takes out his sleigh and delivers presents.

The North Pole has a secret
to each Christmas Eve's success.
She's strong and smart and magic ...
and she wears a bright red dress!

Travis Price’s memorable illustrations immediately bring Mrs Claus to life. She is drawn as a bright charming woman, with red lipstick and long hair, big eyes and eyelashes and small spectacles, always with a smile on her face. The jobs that she does are very important. She pins up a list on the wall to ensure that none are forgotten. They include make a naughty and nice list, clean & service the sleigh, make toys and other chores. Once Mrs Claus and elves and cute little mice think of all the cool toys to make, Mrs Claus starts her lessons in her elf school. Then she teaches the elves how to fly the sleigh, reads the letters to the North Pole and wraps all the presents. And finally, Santa and the elves prepare a special surprise for Mrs Claus on Christmas Day.

The narrative flows smoothly and would be good to read aloud while the illustrations complement the story, adding minute details like the tiny mice that children will delight in finding. The book is 'For the special people who make every Christmas magical. Especially our Mums!’ and children will be able to think about the work that their mothers and grandmothers might do to make Christmas a wonderful time.

This book could be a good contrast to the traditional Christmas stories featuring Santa Claus, giving children a glimpse of a vibrant, clever, organised and cheerful Mrs Claus. Teacher notes are available.

Themes: Christmas, North Pole, Mrs Claus.

Pat Pledger