Secret Santa by Fernleigh Books
Ages 4-8
Sterling; Pop edition (October 6, 2009)
Cautions: None

Kiwi Magazine Review:
Letters to Santa fill the pages of this paper-engineered pop-up book. Santa responds to each letter with some surprising answers, always followed by a p.s. about the fact that Santa just revealed a secret and the reader should tell no one. This book is fun and festive and a great gift for kids 3-8.

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The Natural Beauty Book (Klutz) by Anne Akers Johnson
Ages 12+
Klutz - September 1, 2009
Cautions: None

Kiwi Magazine Review:
Klutz books are definitely my go-to for kid birthday and holiday gifts. I feel good because they’re getting a book which inspires creativity, but the kids are always pleased to break open the craft supplies and kick it into high gear. The Natural Beauty Book has wonderful recipes for pampering a girl from head to toe, using natural ingredients like apples (the apple mask is amazing) and oatmeal. Can you just picture a bunch of girls taking over your bathroom and kitchen to create a special spa night? Good, clean fun!!

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Day Is Done by Peter Yarrow
Melissa Sweet (Illustrator)
Ages 4-8
Sterling; Har/Com edition (October 6, 2009)
Cautions: None

Kiwi Magazine Review:
When the day is done, all will be well. Peter Yarrow croons a lovely tune from father to son, proclaiming that the end of the day brings resolution to the problems of the day. The illustrations are sweet and upbeat, to counter the sad tone of the song. This book just feels like a great big hug after a trying day.

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Big Bear Hug by Nicholas Oldland
Ages 4-8
Kids Can Press - September 1, 2009
Cautions: None

Kiwi Magazine Review:
Huge hugging bear coming your way! The illustrations in this book are absolutely priceless; all sorts of animals find themselves wrapped in a huge hairy hug, whether they like it or not (their faces humorously tell of their displeasure). The kind bear just can’t stop hugging. That it, until he meets up with an ax-wielding human. He is just about to eat him but decides to hug him instead. The human runs as fast as he can, and the bear gives the tree a giant hug. This is my new favorite children’s book for its entertainment value, aesthetics and a bit of a green message.

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Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas (Book & CD)
by Liz Murphy
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Publisher: Blue Apple Books; Rei/Com edition (September 30, 2009)
Cautions: None

Kiwi Magazine Review:
This is a sweet little holiday gift book/CD which keeps giving; proceeds are donated to Broadway Barks which helps shelter animals become adopted. The text of the book is the title song, and a cute little dog prepares for the holidays (no yellow snow here!).

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Reef by Scubazoo
DK ADULT - August 17, 2009

Kiwi Magazine Review:
I am absolutely wild about nature books and have a giant and ever-expanding collection. This one, is, without exception, the most beautiful photographic collection of the beauty of the ocean’s occupants. The whole family will enjoy looking at this collection. Warning: you will definitely see your children leaning toward careers in marine biology.

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