WHEN SANTA CAME TO STAY

Santa overstays his welcome after Christmas, overwhelming a family with North Pole visitors.

It’s hard to imagine a world in which Santa’s everyday presence would be too much, but that’s what happens to one child and their family after Santa visits and stays. What’s more, it’s not just Santa who moves in; it’s Mrs. Claus; their kitten, Santa Paws; Santa’s parents and in-laws; even the reindeer. As the year goes by and the family observes various holidays, such as Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day, all with too much Yuletide cheer, the child eventually steps in and teaches Santa a lesson about the sanctity and joy of Christmas. Sharff’s rhyming text reads well, giving the story a bouncy pace while keeping the pages turning. Kaban’s illustrations feature a multiracial central family and character ensemble, and the child who narrates the story has brown skin; Santa is light-skinned, while Mrs. Claus is tan-skinned. In addition, the illustrations convey a feeling of movement and action, whether it’s Easter bunnies hopping around the house or a chaotic Fourth of July party. Together, the story and art make for a smileworthy book with lots of playful silliness and a gentle reminder about the heart of Christmas. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

Too much Santa is a bad thing done just right.