Rory the Dinosaur Needs a Christmas Tree (Rory the Dinosaur #3)

The delights are in the details in Rory the dinosaur's third picture book, which features more sly cartooning and understated storytelling from Climo. A Christmas tree is the only piece of holiday decor missing from Rory and his father's island tree house (stockings made for clawed feet hang above a roaring campfire), and the two don their "winter gear" before heading out (a scarf and pair of earmuffs get the job done in their tropical environs). Immovable palms and sad stumps don't fit the bill, but Rory's disappointment proves short-lived when his tall, green, and spiky father brings new meaning to the idea of a living Christmas tree. A total charmer. Ages 4-8. Agent: Kathleen Ortiz, New Leaf Literary & Media. (Oct.)

PreS-Gr 1—Rory the little dinosaur and his dad are back, this time on the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree. When none of the trees on their island home proves to be a good fit, it seems like Rory's Christmas might be ruined. But fun traditions with family and friends keep his spirits alive, and on Christmas day, he gets a special treat: Dad, wrapped in lights and topped with a star, stands in, becoming the "best tree ever!" Climo's super-cute digital illustrations of round green dinosaurs and their island friends highlight this readable and engaging story. A good balance of humor and sincerity prevents the message about the true meaning of the holidays from feeling trite, and keeps the focus on the family. VERDICT An appealing read-aloud that will have fans of Rory and his dad celebrating.—Brooke Sheets, Los Angeles Public Library