Rory the Dinosaur Needs a Christmas Tree

September 4, 2017
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 décor 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.

September 1, 2017
A young dinosaur and his dad search their island for a Christmas tree for their holiday celebration. In this third outing for the little dinosaur, Rory and his group of animal friends are preparing for Christmas Eve. Rory and his dad have decorated their treetop home with Christmas stockings and garland, but they are missing a Christmas tree. The dinosaurs examine several different trees, but nothing on their lush, green island is quite right for their needs. When father and son return home empty-handed, the other animals arrive for a caroling session, followed by a Christmas story and hot cocoa. Rory's dad surprises his son on Christmas morning by decorating himself as the Christmas tree, complete with glowing lights and a star-shaped hat. There is a jolly celebration and exchange of gifts before a sweet, concluding hug for the dinosaur duo. Digitally produced illustrations use cartoon-style shapes against plain white backgrounds or minimalist scenes of the dinosaur home and island surroundings. Rory and his dad have only tiny dots for their eyes, so they don't show much expression, and all the characters have a rather flat and posed feel to them. The story is simple but satisfying, with the caring (and frequently used) theme of enjoying the holiday with friends and family. The straightforward plot, uncomplicated illustrations, and humorous appearance of the decorated dinosaur dad make this a good choice for younger preschoolers. (Picture book. 2-5)

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October 1, 2017

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

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