Reviewed by Wendy Lipke
There are so many children’s authors and books that parents should have no trouble finding something to read to their young ones.
Melbourne based children’s author, Evie Garland, has used her passion for all things festive to create her Christmas tree shaped board book. It is beautifully illustrated by Rachel Gyan, who has included many quirky animals to go with this narrative. Though mostly Australian animals are present, a kiwi bird, reindeer and a bear have also found their way onto these pages.
The theme is the decoration of a Christmas tree in a countdown over ten days to Christmas Day. Gradually baubles, tinsel, candy canes, candles, stockings and silver bells are used in the decoration of the tree and the room in which it sits. The pages are bright and interesting with a mischievous mouse which young children must find on each page. The mouse, and the cat that chases it, create a second story with their antics during which the snack set out for Santa gradually disappears.
This story has much to engage a young child as they share this reading time with an older reader. In the lead up to Christmas time this book would focus the attention of preschool children on the coming season. Away from this time, the book also has the story of the animals to focus on.
This is a well presented, interesting addition to this category of books.
Countdown to Christmas
(2025)
by Evie Garland
Illustrated by Rachel Gyan
Allen & Unwin
ISBN:978-1761181993
$19.99; 18pp