Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1483107
Seasonal Stories MUST'READ TALES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY. The Nutcracker in Harlem T.E. McMorrow Audience: Children Length: 32 pages The original Nutcracker is a fable that dates back over a century, and with a unique angle and beautiful illustrations, this 2017 re-telling could last just as long. In it, a young black girl growing up in 1920s Harlem—during the Harlem Renaissance—goes on an adventure with a toy soldier from her grandfather. Filled with jazz, history, and big holiday heart, this book is a great adaptation for kids, whether they're familiar with the earlier rendition or not. The Snowy Day Ezra Jack Keats Audience: Young Children Length: 40 Pages Written by Ezra Jack Keats, The Snowy Day follows young Peter's adventure during the first snowfall of the year. Donning a bright red snowsuit, Peter explores the winter wonderland, building snowmen, carving snow angels, and sliding down hills. To commemorate the magic of his day, he keeps a snowball in his pocket. Unfortunately, the snowball melts, and that night, Peter dreams that all the snow outside has melted away, too. However, he wakes up to find that more snow has fallen. An iconic favorite, The Snowy Day's depiction of imagination, hope, and wonder is sure to captivate readers of all ages. Tree of Cranes Allen Say Audience: Family Length: 32 pages Released in 1991, Tree of Cranes tells the story of a mother living in Japan as she prepares for her son's first Christmas. While recovering from a cold, the boy notices how Christmastime takes shape around him, especially the tree decorated with candles and paper cranes from his mom's childhood in America. With an emphasis on family and various cultural celebrations, Tree of Cranes is powered by illustrations and Japanese-born author Allen Say's moving writing. At 32 pages, it's an excellent read for a family night around the fire. The Broken Ornament Tony DiTerlizzi Audience: Children Length: 48 pages In The Broken Ornament, a little boy rushes to string lights, hang decorations, and stack gifts, and accidentally breaks a very meaningful ornament. When the ornament shatters, it releases a fairy. With marvels like flying reindeer and living and breathing snowmen, the fairy makes everything magical, but she can't seem to fix the broken trinket. Will the fairy's magic be enough to make the season special anyway? Dive into this exciting journey to find out—and show kids that Christmas can be fantastic, even if it isn't perfect. PASS THE TIME