The Naughtiest Reindeer
Nicki Greenberg
Allen & Unwin, 2013
hbk, 32pp., RRP $A15.99
9781743313046
Rudolf the reindeer was lying in bed with a runny red nose and an ache in his head.
“I’m sorry,” he groaned. “I just can’t pull a sled. You’ll have to ask my sister Ruby instead.”
It’s the night before Christmas and Rudolf is sneezing his little red nose off. So Santa needs another reindeer to help pull the sleigh. Rudolf’s sister Ruby is a little reindeer who always finds herself in BIG trouble. None of the other reindeer want her to come but Santa has no choice and she really does try hard to be good. But it gets boring waiting outside while Santa is inside AND getting snacks to eat…
The Naughtiest Reindeer features frequently on lists of favourite Christmas stories and it’s not surprising. It’s a delightful story-in-rhyme that pounces along and features a lovable character than young children will relate to and the twist at the end is superb. It will encourage littlies to make sure they’re on Santa’s NICE list, although Ruby suffers more from enthusiasm than mischief! She’s curious and spirited and it’s that which leads to mayhem and chaos. It ‘s a great read-aloud and Greenberg’s artistic interpretation of a reindeer is very appealing. A few corks , some toothpicks and imagination and there’s scope for a great craft activity. Although drinking from the toilet is not to be encouraged!
This book is playful and fun and a great addition to the Christmas Countdown.