How to Decorate a Christmas Tree

K-Gr 1–“Wait until a snowy night,” begins the eager, bubbly narrative of the young heroine as she and her family await the arrival of the Christmas tree. Her dad and Uncle Rob are shown carrying the tree into their home, and then the preparations begin. Ornaments are lovingly unwrapped, each one’s story told, and the lights and popcorn strings added. The final ornaments to be placed on the tree are inscribed with the names of the heroine and her baby brother. The colorful three-dimensional ornaments, which are woven from embroidery thread, paper, and textiles along with the rest of the art, capture the author’s enthusiasm. Realistic elements are carried through Sato’s illustrations to include subtle details: the laces on the boots; a fur ruff around the hood; plump, vertical tree boughs; and the warm texture of the carpets. A child’s breathless excitement during the Christmas season resonates in the short, animated sentences. Each page provides an opportunity for audience participation.