Charlotte Pence

The adorable Marlon Bundo is back for yet another adventure in this delightful Christmas book. This third book in the series is a return to the simple easy rhymes that made the first one so charming. Here, too, children can get a bunny’s-eye-view of the hustle and bustle of Washington D.C. Although this book is not as overtly educational as its predecessors, it still imparts a sense of the many different kinds of people who come together for a holiday party. There is someone from the secret service, a pilot, and a sailor who plays the trumpet. There are a few nods to Christmas and a mention of Hanukkah. The illustrations show men and women of different skin tones. The overal message is one of warmth and inclusivity. It’s very sweet, but not overly so for a holiday story. Whereas the plot of the first book was realistic—the bunny hops around and sees different people—this book turns rather more toward whimsy. Here, Marlon gathers bits and pieces of all kinds of different things to make a present. The result is delightful. The book works a little hard for the rhyme in a few places, but overall, the words are very smooth and flowing. And as always, the watercolor images lend grace and beauty to every page. Absolutely lovely!… (meer)