Santa’s Rough Landing by Pat Alvarado is a charming children’s book aimed at pre-school kids, but even older kids would enjoy it. It’s December 24th, 11:00 PM, and Santa’s workshop is buzzing with feverish activity, as the elves are busy finishing the wrapping of toys and getting them ready to be loaded onto Santa’s sleigh. However, Rudolph is not ready to lead the other reindeer into the sky because he has a cold and the light in his nose has burned out. Frantic activities follow the discovery, trying to provide a headlamp for Comet, the most experienced of the reindeer, who would replace Rudolf. When that attempt fails, various schemes are considered and, finally, the sleigh takes off with Santa and the presents into a blinding snowstorm. Will Comet successfully navigate the treacherous weather and deliver the presents to the anxiously waiting children? Will they successfully return to the North Pole?
What makes this story special is the author’s unique treatment of blending the familiar fantasy trope with modern concepts, such as Search and Rescue, helicopters, transponders, and Air Traffic Control – all familiar even to small children who watch television daily. The vocabulary is simple and easy for youngsters to follow, the characters are well drawn and believable, and the pacing is excellent to keep young readers’ interest. The situations are often comical, making the reader laugh, and the resolution is satisfactory, with the important message that perseverance and ingenuity have their own rewards, with success at the end of a demanding and often scary adventure. The illustrations by Andrea Saroya are delightful and well-drawn to give a visual background to the story. The book ends with a chapter-by-chapter list of ideas kids could think about, as well as useful information about new words and facts about reindeer. The book is both entertaining and educational. I highly recommend Santa’s Rough Landing by Pat Alvarado to discerning parents who want something new and different to offer their children.
Reviewed by Francis Mont for Readers' Favorite
