A Chick 'n' Pug Christmas by Jennifer Sattler

Bloomsbury, 2014. ISBN 9781599906027
(Age: Preschool - F) It's the night before Christmas and Pug the dog is fast asleep, snug and warm in his Santa suit. But his little mate Chick is chilly - feathers aren't much protection in the snow! Chick is fascinated by Pug's outfit and so Pug tells him about Santa and how he brings presents and spreads joy to everyone.
'Wow,' whispered Chick. 'Does he have big muscles? How does he deliver everything in one night?'
'He flies through the sky', said Pug with a yawn.
'So he's a superhero! Does he have a sidekick?'
And so Pug and Chick set off to spread a bit of their own Christmas joy to their friends and not-so friends on this special night. But it's not as easy as they think - especially with their nemesis, Mr Snuggles. The final picture of a joy spread unknowingly is perfect.
Beautifully illustrated with much of the story and humour embedded in the pictures, this is another adventure of these two unlikely buddies that will appeal to young readers. The juxtaposition of the energetic Chick and the lethargic Pug contrast perfectly, driving the story and young readers will empathise with both of them.
Of the many Christmas-oriented stories which appear at this time of the year, this is one that will have great appeal to those who are still enthralled by the season and its promise of magic.
Barbara Braxton