The Biggest Smallest Christmas Present

September 26, 2016
Essentially a modern-day Thumbelina, Clementine sleeps in a matchbox, bathes in a teacup, and fits neatly in the palm of her mother’s hand. Unfortunately, Santa doesn’t realize that she isn’t an “average-sized” girl: her presents, including a puppy and a paint set, are always much bigger than she is. This year, to clue Santa in, Clementine and her family leave photographs of her with her previous Christmas gifts—such as using xylophone mallets as stilts and balancing on her puppy’s nose. Finally, Santa gets it right, giving Clementine a dollhouse that’s just her size. At the heart of Muncaster’s story is a subtle message about gently but firmly letting one’s needs be known, but many readers will be happy just to pore over the delightful images of Clementine making the most of a very large world. Ages 3–5. Agent: Jodie Hodges, United Agents.

Over several years, a Thumbelina-sized girl receives gifts from Santa that are too large for her diminutive size.Tiny, black-haired, light-skinned Clementine lives in a standard-sized house with her standard-sized parents and brother. But Clementine is different in one important way: she is "the smallest girl in the world." She bathes in a teacup and sleeps in a child's slipper, one of her standard-sized gifts from Santa. Over two Christmas seasons, Clementine tries to let Santa know she would prefer a gift appropriate to her miniature size, but he misses her messages. Her dad finally helps Clementine leave photos for Santa showing Clementine playing with her oversized gifts. The following Christmas morning, Clementine receives a perfect present--a furnished dollhouse that is just the right fit for a doll-sized little girl. Charming illustrations with lots of red, green, and pink create a believable world for the tiny child, who is a sprightly, amusing girl who makes the best of her situation and tries to solve her own problems. The story is short and simple, with just a few lines of text per spread, making it accessible to younger preschoolers. Additional appeal is provided by a large trim size and an attractive cover with little Clementine swinging on a sparkly Christmas ornament. Clementine proves the adage about good things coming in small packages. (Picture book. 3-6) COPYRIGHT(1) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

October 1, 2016

PreS-Gr 1-Clementine is an ordinary little girl except for one thing-she is so tiny that she bathes in a teacup and sleeps in a matchbox. Unfortunately, Santa doesn't seem to realize this and showers her with regular-size presents that are much too large for her. Finally, she leaves photos for Santa of herself playing with all of her giant presents (dancing on her xylophone, sleeping on the head of her stuffed bird), and Santa gives her the hugest and best gift of all-a dollhouse just her size. There is something delightfully Eloise-like about Clementine's big head, loose-limbed body, and scraggly hair; young children will love watching her prance confidently and joyfully through a world that may be too big for her but seems just right nevertheless. VERDICT This refreshingly playful Christmas tale makes a fun read-aloud choice.-Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library

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