DECORATE THE TREE

An interactive book inviting readers to trim the Christmas tree with a tap, clap, and twinkle.

In this sparsely illustrated picture book, each page turn (with reader participation) adds another layer of decorations to the Christmas tree. Tapping the tree adds the lights, for example, while clapping turns them on, and blinking causes garland to appear. Readers will also blow away a broken ornament, and, of course, tap to place the star on top. The most magical moment happens when readers “turn out the lights” to see the fully glowing tree against a dark background. The directions in this book are simple enough for even young toddlers to follow or be guided through with minimal assistance. The pace of clapping and tapping is an added layer of engagement that keeps pages turning. Bare though the pages may be, they certainly allow readers to easily notice the addition of each new piece of decor and enable them to focus on the actions and movements. All the action words appear in italics, the last of which is “snuggle,” a loving and simple way for caregivers to bring their little ones in close. Sure to be a repeat read-aloud toddler favorite for the Christmas holiday season.

Simple and effective.