EVERETT GREEN

A small tree dreams big dreams but realizes them in an unexpected way.

Everett can’t resist the lure of fame and bright lights, but his current “live show” in his tropical venue doesn’t give him the acclaim he wants. When he’s onstage at the Sandy Straw, he’s largely ignored by the customers, who are busy eating and chatting. Then he learns about the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, inspiring a new goal: He sees his “destiny” as becoming “the most famous Christmas tree in the world.” Although he’s a three-foot plastic palm, Everett drapes himself in tiny lights and heads to the airport. He lacks money, identification, and a ticket, but his friend Bird flies into action. Cavalierly subverting security, Bird steals a passport and paperwork, distracts the agent, and ushers Everett through. The stolen credit card subsidizes snacks, photos, and souvenirs, but then all New York flights are delayed by bad weather. Everett is dejected—until a little girl with dark skin recognizes him as the Christmas tree he feels he is, planting “a tiny seed” in his heart. Springing to action with hard work and irresistible enthusiasm, Everett saves Christmas for the stranded passengers, performing for them, uniting them, and spreading “joy everywhere.” Wexler brings the narrative to a familiar but chipper conclusion, while Berthiaume’s cheery, deep-toned, detailed cartoon illustrations rely on varied layouts, depicting expressive people who are diverse in terms of skin tones; Everett’s an especially winsome protagonist.

A clearly written and predictable but upbeat tale about being true to your vision and finding the spirit of Christmas.