Three Silly Chicks say Santa Knows by Cynthia and Greg Leitich Smith, illustrated by Steve Björkman (Dutton, 2006) is “a holly jolly read for the holidays.” Read the whole review. Then find out more about silly chicks Andrea Beaty, Julia Durango, and Carolyn Crimi. Note: TSC is a don’t-miss blog for silly reading and offers an LJ syndication.
Parent:Wise Austin chimes in: “Even kids as old as nine or ten will enjoy the delightful illustrations, particularly the humbug patterns on Alfie’s pajamas, and will chuckle at Alife’s meticulous research. If your kids are starting to question Santa Claus, read this book together. …a story that will turn even the grumpiest Scrooge into a true believer!”
The Richmond Times-Dispatch says: “Illustrations by Steve Björkman demonstrate Alfie’s fervor in his quest. They also show his distaste of the season with green pajamas covered with slashed Christmas icons, which is a truly funny sight. This title is a holiday must have.” Read the whole review.
The PlanetEsme Plan cheers: “Cynthia and Greg Leitich Smith show that they can ho-ho-ho with the best of them…” Read the whole review.
Listen to a podcast of Booktalks: Quick and Sample as Nancy Keane discusses Santa Knows.
Holiday Round-ups
“Give Kids Something That Lasts a Lifetime: The Joy of Reading” by Samantha Critchell, Associated Press Writer, from the New Haven Register. Santa Knows is among those titles featured, and we’re especially thrilled that the book is being highlighted as this AP column is appearing in newspapers across the U.S. and Canada. Other recommendations include: Christmas USA by Mary D. Lankford, illustrated by Karen Dugan (HarperCollins); Christmas in the Trenches by John McCutcheon, illustrated by Henri Sorensen (Peachtree); I Have a Little Dreidel by Maxie Baum, illustrated by Julie Paschkis (Cartwheel/Scholastic); and Yoon and the Christmas Mitten by Helen Recorvits, illustrated by Gabi Swiatkowska (FSG).
“Dear Santa, Can You Bring Me These Books This Year?” by Holly E. Newton at Newton’s Book Notes from the Columbia (MO) Daily Tribune. Santa Knows is featured! Highlights also include Christmas Lights by Marion Dane Bauer, illustrated by Susan Mitchell (Simon & Schuster)(excerpt). Read a Cynsations interview with Marion.
“Holiday Books Can Make Great Gifts” from the Baton Rouge Advocate. More Santa Knows! Greg Langley cheers, “This book is perfect to share with the little skeptic at your house.” Highlights also include Jesus Was Here by Brian Simmons, illustrated by Erin Leeder (Full Court).
“New Holiday Titles, Act One: Skeptics ‘R Us” from Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast: Why Stop at Six? A Blog About Books. The word on Santa Knows is “a festive and fun read with [Steve] Björkman’s buoyant cartoon watercolor-and-ink illustrations.” Also featured is A Clever Beatrice Christmas by Margaret Willey, illustrated by Heather M. Solomonb (Atheneum). Read the whole review.
Cynsational Notes
Greg and I are honored by all the enthusiasm for Santa Knows! It’s our first book together, which means a lot to us. And Steve‘s illustrations deserve all the acclaim and more! We’d also like offer another thanks to our publicist Rebecca Grose of SoCal Public Relations and our web designer Lisa Firke of Hit Those Keys–both of whom have been wonder women and are highly recommended. Read interviews with Rebecca and Lisa. Visit www.santa-knows.com! Thanks to all for your ongoing support!