Santa's Book of Names [Paperback]

David McPhail (Author)

Book Description

Grade Level: P and up

Illustrated throughout with stunning watercolor nightscapes of snowy winter scenes, Santa's Book of Names depicts all the warmth and spirit of this special time of year in a story about a young boy who learns to read with Santa's help. David McPhail's inspirational holiday story emphasizes the importance of literacy while reminding readers that with patience and practice, you can achieve just about anything.

Editorial Reviews

From Kirkus Reviews

When Edward has trouble learning to read, his teacher urges tests but his mother counsels ``Patience.'' Then, in Edward's house on Christmas Eve, Santa accidentally drops the all- important book listing the gifts children will receive--and when Edward catches up with him to give it back, Santa invites him to come along to help. Since Edward can't read, he just holds the book and turns pages. But when Santa's glasses tumble into the sea, Edward realizes he must try to read--and finds he can. Appropriately, the last gift is a book for Edward, which he reads all by himself on Christmas morning. The novel twist on the popular scenario makes a sweet story that's sure to be a hit, especially with McPhail's cozy illustrations of Edward's home and a traditional Santa. (Picture book. 4-8) -- Copyright ©1993, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

About the Author

David McPhail is the author and illustrator of dozens of books for young readers, including Edward and the Pirates; Sisters; Mole Music, When Sheep Sleep and many more. He is the recipient of numerous awards, including a New York Times Best Illustrated Book of the Year. David lives in New Hampshire.

Product Details

• Paperback: 32 pages
• Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (October 1, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0590026925
• ISBN-13: 978-0316115346
• ASIN: 0316115347
• Product Dimensions: 11 x 0.1 x 8.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 5.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #672,709 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

DAVID McPHAIL is the creator of dozens of wonderful books, including Big Brown Bear's Up and Down Day; Sisters; Mole Music, a New York Times Book Review Best Illustrated Book of the Year; and several recent Green Light Readers for Harcourt. He lives in New Hampshire.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Small boy learns to read by helping Santa with his book., December 4, 1997

By A Customer

This review is from: Santa's Book of Names (Paperback)

This is one of the books that I hope will become a Christmas classic. It combines the excitement of Christmas with the love of books and reading. The pictures by Mr. McPhail are an enticing addition to the story. If you love books and reading you'll love Edward, Santa and the last page of this book.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars No Tests. Patience., March 11, 2003

By 

Amanda (Bay City, MI, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Santa's Book of Names (Paperback)

Edward cannot read. He almost can...but not quite. His teacher tells his parents that there are many tests he can take that will find what the problems are. However, his mother insists on "No tests...just patience."
It is Christmas Eve and Edward struggles to read his favorite Christmas story when he hears a noise. He runs downstairs to find a large, old book. "It must be Santa's!" he thought.
Santa comes back for the book, which happens to be his "Book of Names," but looses his glasses, and needs Edward to go along with him to help him read the names. Edward struggles at first, but Santa helps him. In the end, Edward does fine reading and Santa returns him home, thanks him, and rewards him with a new book.
On Christmas day, Edward reads his new book to his two happy parents.
I believe that this story is really inspiring. Edward gains self esteem, self confidence, and he saves Christmas! This book seems to be an instant classic. The story is good and the illustrations are beautiful. People of all ages will enjoy reading about Edward's memorable Christmas.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A wonderful children's adventure, March 16, 2003

By 

"tall_guy_03" (USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Santa's Book of Names (School & Library Binding)

This book was very interesting. It all started with Edward not being able to read. His father would always read him a story on Christmas Eve. Edward wanted to read really bad. This story tells how Edward goes from being doubted, to actually being able to read. It brings about a conflict with the losing of Santa's glasses. I think that that was the opportunity that Edward needed to learn how to read. His parents woke him up on Christmas morning. They wanted to read the book to him. He ended up reading it to them. I would definitely recommend this to any kid that wants a good story to read.