In this delightful Christmas Mouse story, SANTA MOUSE FINDS A FURRY FRIEND written by Michael Brown and illustrated by Robert McPhillips, Santa’s littlest helper helps bring a lost kitten home on Christmas Eve (Little Simon).

The idea for writing the Santa Mouse stories came to Michael Brown (1920–2014) while holding a piece of children’s pajama fabric featuring a tiny Christmas mouse. He went to work creating the character that was to become Santa’s little helper and the brand was created in 1966. This newly discovered holiday picture book is the perfect addition to the well-known and beloved brand.

MORE SANTA MOUSE:

Santa Mouse Makes a Christmas Wish  by Michael Brown

October 5, 2021 | ISBN: 9781534437999 | Little Simon | Ages 3-7

Santa Mouse searches for his true Christmas talent in Santa’s workshop in this magical 8×8 storybook about finding your own special way to celebrate the holiday.

Santa Mouse, Where Are You? by Michael Brown

October 26, 2021 | ISBN: 9781534438026 | Little Simon | Ages 4-8

Santa’s littlest helper gets lost and must find his way back to Santa’s sleigh in time to save Christmas in this delightful holiday picture book.

The 12 Days of Christmas: A Holiday Fantasy

Written and Illustrated by Todd Lockwood

From renowned fantasy illustrator and bestselling author Todd Lockwood comes a holiday picture book that brings young readers a new and magical Christmastime adventure! The timeless Christmas carol “The Twelve Days of Christmas” is brought to life through Lockwood’s vibrant and spirited artistic hand. 

Holidays All Year

By: Neil Goldberg & Niko Nickolaou

Illustrated by: John Kelly

Best friends POMP, SNOW, and CIRQUEumstance wrap up Christmas and prepare for more holidays around the world. They study the calendar and learn about different holidays (New Year’s, Lunar New Year, Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day, Passover, Easter, Ramadan, Independence Day, Halloween, Diwali Festival of Lights, and Christmas), as they set out to brighten holidays all year.

n today’s fast-paced world, parents are always seeking meaningful ways to connect with their children and cherish the beautiful moments of their lives. Sarah Dennehy’s new book, Mindful with Me, makes this connection not only possible but also easy and fun. With simple mindfulness practices that take just minutes a day, parents and children can feel calmer, happier, and more focused together.

Mindful with Me introduces a variety of engaging activities such as alligator breathing, volcano jumps, sensory walks, and bedtime wind-downs. These activities encourage parents and children to move, breathe, relax, and create together, fostering a deeper connection and enhancing overall well-being.

Mindful with Me is an invaluable tool not just for parents but also for caregivers, teachers, and anyone who lives or works with children. By practicing mindfulness together for just a few minutes each day, children can learn to self-regulate, manage big emotions, and build stronger connections with their parents. The book features over 55 age-appropriate mindfulness activities with easy-to-follow instructions, ensuring that families can start their mindfulness journey right away.

Through Mindful with Me, parents and children will discover new ways to connect deeply, feel less stressed, and cope more effectively with life’s challenges. Dive into the world of mindfulness with your child and create moments of joy and tranquility that will last a lifetime.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Sarah Dennehy, M.Ed., began her mindfulness practice while working as a behavioral specialist one-on-one with parents and in schools. Seeking new effective ways to help young clients deal with stress and anxiety, Sarah earned teaching certifications for children’s yoga and mindfulness. Sarah then founded The Mindful Space (createamindfulspace.com), which offers mindfulness classes and training for kids, parents, teachers, and therapists. She’s also a program director for a nonprofit that provides trauma-informed mindfulness in schools. Sarah lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, Eric.

The Collective Book Studio, a woman-owned, independent press based in Oakland, CA, publishes high-quality lifestyle, gift, and children’s books. Their books are distributed by Simon & Schuster, a global leader in general interest publishing, dedicated to providing the best in fiction and nonfiction for readers of all ages. For more information, visit www.simonandschuster.com.

*Self Disclosure: I received free copies of the above books to feature for the holidays. Information and images were also provided.

A Book Lover’s Boxby Workman Publishing, Illustrated by Louise Pretzel ( $35.00; ISBN 9781523527588)

Celebrate the joy of reading with this stationery box specially designed for book lovers. 

Cynthia Hart’s Victoriana Dogs: The Sticker Bookby Cynthia Hart;( $17.00; ISBN 9781523526154)

A curated collection of 300 stickers, featuring vintage dogs from the Victorian era, Cynthia Hart’s Victoriana Dogs: The Sticker Book is an ode to the joy dogs have brought since the 19^th century. 

Cynthia Hart’s Victoriana Dogs: 12 Wrapping Papers and Gift Tagsby Cynthia Hart; ( $19.99; ISBN 9781523526161)

Featuring 12 perforated gift tags and 12 gorgeously illustrated sheets of wrapping paper that fold out to 18 7/8’ x 25 3/4’, make your gifts stand out with this elegant wrapping.

The Stress Resets Deck by Jennifer L. Taitz, PsyD, ABPP ( $18.99; ISBN  9781523523344)

Adapted from her Stress Resets book, clincial psychologist, Dr. Jennifer L. Taitz provides readers with scientifically based exercises to manage stress. Using strategies backed by research, each card features a WHEN/HOW/WHY format making it easy to flip through and find relief. This full color card deck is perfect for anxious readers, helping reset the mind, body, behavior, and promote healthy habits.

Homebody: 12 DIY Posters to Decorate Your Happy Place by Amanda Jane Jones ($19.99; ISBN 9781523529452) From award-winning Kinfolk founding art director, Amanda Jane Jones, this curated collection of DIY typographic posters celebrates the joys of staying at home.

The next two box sets are perfect for parents!

The Montessori Family Collection (Boxed Set) by Simone Davies & Junnifa Uzodike ($65.00; ISBN 9781523528066) Give the gift of Montessori with the complete collection of the bestselling series that shows parents how to use the principles of Montessori to raise independent, curious, and compassionate kids. The perfect gift for new families, no matter what the occasion, brings together three bestselling books that show parents how to bring the principles of Montessori home.

There Are Moms and Dads Way Worse Than You (Boxed Set) by Glenn Boozan illus. by Priscilla White ( $30.00; ISBN 9781523527823)

In this New York Times bestselling humor gift book for parents who need a laugh, you can now enjoy both books in one boxed set! Each book in Glenn Boozan’s viral and bestselling gift book series is filled with rhyming couplets that highlight bad moms from the animal kingdom or notoriously bad dads in history and pop culture.

By Tim Button, Illustrated by Ana Martín Larranaga

Find out who giggles and who doesn’t in this playful book that ends with a delightful, giggly surprise!

Hi Lion, are you giggly?
How about you, Zebra? Are you giggly?

Young readers find out who giggles and who doesn’t in this fun, playful board book. Bright illustrations by Ana Larrañaga introduce readers to a collection of African animals and the sounds they make. When they get to the novelty mirror in the back of the book, children will be delighted to discover the giggliest creature of all: themselves!

Gray Fox wanders alone in the forest at night. The woods are illuminated in the silvery light of the full moon and stars. She gazes around in wonder at the light in the birch grove and stops to look at her reflection in the river. But something calls to her in her reverie. She must return to her den by dawn to care for her kits when they wake.

With simple poetry young children will love, Gray Fox in the Moonlight is a journey through a nighttime wonderland that celebrates the love between parents and children. Simple two-color illustrations overflow with light in this evergreen story that illustrates the value of independence in the parental relationship as well as the powerful bond which calls us home from wandering. Gray Fox in the Moonlight revels in the profound beauty of nature.

… as you wonder and marvel and grow,
There are some things in life that I hope you will know …

So begins a love letter from an unnamed narrator to their dearest one. Rhyming couplets peppered with metaphor offer readers thirteen heart-felt and admirable credos, together presenting a guide for a life well lived.

These collected words of wisdom express the narrator’s deepest wishes for their cherished one as they step into their future, perhaps most importantly that they are loved unconditionally. This joyfully illustrated and artfully designed package may be shared with a loved one of any age to complement life’s milestone moments and holidays.

*Self Disclosure: I received the above books to feature for the holidays. Images and information were also provided.

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ epic animated musical Moana 2 reunites Moana (Auli‘i Cravalho) and Maui (Dwayne Johnson) three years later for an expansive new voyage alongside a crew of unlikely seafarers. After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever faced.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Gavin S. comments, “I thoroughly enjoyed Moana 2 for its breathtaking animation and compelling storytelling. The vibrant visuals and the emotionally resonant narrative make it a worthy sequel to the original.” Zoe C. adds, “The storyline… feels like a recreation of the first film just with better animation, new characters, and new songs. However, what makes this film so enjoyable to watch is all its other aspects.” Junior R. adds, “Moana 2 is one of the best movies I have ever seen.  If you liked the first Moana, you’re going to definitely LOVE this one.  It has even more action, cooler songs, and new characters that will make you laugh.” Avani M. adds, “With a new outfit, boat snack, crew and a little sister, Moana 2 is a fantastic movie with great animation, an awesome storyline and important messages.” Sydney S. wraps it up with, “Moana 2 is a new and exciting journey for Moana. This sequel brings her liveliness and bravery back on the big screen, while also representing Pacific Islanders and making them feel seen.” See their full reviews below.

Moana 2

By Gavin S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I thoroughly enjoyed Moana 2 for its breathtaking animation and compelling storytelling. The vibrant visuals and the emotionally resonant narrative make it a worthy sequel to the original.

The film follows Moana (Auli‘i Cravalho) as she embarks on an epic journey three years after her first adventure. Prompted by a mysterious call from her ancestors, she ventures into uncharted waters alongside Maui (Dwayne Johnson) and a diverse crew of seafarers. Together, they navigate treacherous oceans and uncover long-lost realms, confronting challenges that test their courage and unity. The stakes are higher; the landscapes are grander; and Moana’s determination shines brighter than ever.

What truly sets Moana 2 apart is its rich combination of music, character development, and cultural authenticity. The soundtrack composed by Mark Mancina, Opetaia Foaʻi, Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear blends contemporary styles with traditional Polynesian rhythms, resulting in songs that are both memorable and deeply meaningful. Auli‘i Cravalho delivers a stunning vocal performance that adds depth to Moana’s journey, while Dwayne Johnson brings humor and heart again, as Maui. The film also introduces new characters, with actors Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda, Rose Matafeo, David Fane, Hualālai Chung, Awhimai Fraser, and Gerald Ramsey joining the cast and bringing fresh dynamics and humor to the story. Beyond the music and characters, the animation is stunning, capturing the majesty of Oceania with dazzling colors and intricate details. The filmmakers clearly respect and celebrate the cultural heritage they portray, immersing the audience in a world that feels authentic and alive.

At its heart, Moana 2 carries a powerful message: the importance of perseverance and staying connected to your roots while embracing the unknown.

Moana 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 through 12, plus adults. This film releases in theaters on November 27, 2024. Be sure to check it out.

Moana 2

By Zoe C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Moana 2 has visually mesmerizing visuals, great animation, and a lovely soundtrack. I saw the first Moana when I was eight, so I was very excited to see what this sequel would bring to the table.

The film opens with a call from Moana’s ancestors warning her that if she doesn’t find the lost island of Motufetū, the story of her people would end. Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) recruits people from her island to sail the seas with her to find Nalo, a power hungry God who believes humans can achieve anything when they are united, which threatens him. Nalo separated all of the people of the sea and hid Motufetū so that he could never be destroyed. Hesitant, Moana takes on this scary journey for the sake of her people.

This sequel doesn’t really continue the story from the first film, instead it re-tells the same tale with new characters. It follows the same formula as the first Moana: a call from Moana’s ancestors, obstacles in reaching the main antagonist, and the final battle. The storyline is pretty underwhelming; it feels like a recreation of the first film just with better animation, new characters, and new songs. However, what makes this film so enjoyable to watch is all its other aspects. The immersive animation is absolutely enchanting. All of the colors and textures are spectacular; I didn’t expect anything less from Disney. The score by Mark Mancina and Opetaia Foa’i is also perfect. The soundtrack stuck in my head and raised the bar from the first film’s score. The introduction of new characters is also a strong point. Moana’s new little sister Simea   (Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda) is just adorable. And the new villain, Matangi (Awhimai Fraser), creates some mystery and suspense in the plot. Auli’i Cravalho, as Moana, and Dwayne Johnson, as Maui, still have their powerful duo dynamic. With all these strong aspects this film has so much potential to continue the beautiful story the first film left us with, but unfortunately the plot makes this sequel subpar.

This film explores themes of community, overcoming adversity, and shows how when people come together, they can achieve anything.

Moana 2 gets 3.5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. You can watch Moana 2 in theatres beginning November 27, 2024.

Moana 2 

By Junior R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

Moana 2 is one of the best movies I have ever seen.  If you liked the first Moana, you’re going to definitely LOVE this one.  It has even more action, cooler songs, and new characters that will make you laugh. I definitely had the most awesome time watching this film.

In this film, Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) is older, mature, and more adventurous.  After getting a call from her ancestors, Moana enlists a new crew Moni (Hualalai Chung), Loto (Rose Matafeo) and Kele (Daniel Fane) along with the help of Hei Hei (Alan Tudyk), Pua and Maui (Dwayne Johnson) to embark on a dangerous journey to sail across the seas of Oceania to help save her island from a huge, powerful storm.  As Moana faces new challenges, she discovers more about her ancestor and her true destiny!

The cast of characters is fabulous!  Some of the original characters return in this sequel.  Auli-i Cravalho Maui reprises the lead role. Maui is back, as himself, and his hair looks better than ever.  Be ready to laugh when Maui argues with his tattoos. The new characters, Moni, Loto, Kele, and Moana’s little sister Simea have a new spice that entertains the audience the whole way through. One of the best things about the film is its animation.  The ocean is even prettier this time, and is so realistic it made me want to jump into the screen and go for a swim.  The island looks like a setting straight out of a postcard.  Also the constellations are vibrant and look amazing in the beautiful night sky. Last but not least, I love how Moana’s hair majestically blows in the wind throughout the film.  My favorite song from the film is “Beyond.” It is the most wonderful song as it makes you feel brave to undertake any adventure. 

Moana 2 has a powerful message of embracing your culture and inheritance.  It also emphasizes the idea that, together with others, you are stronger and can do anything.  Moana embraces the wonderful ocean life and that shows throughout the movie.  Be aware that there are a few scary creatures that might frighten younger audiences.

Moana 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults.  Moana 2 opens in theaters November 27, 2024.

Moana 2

By Sydney S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

Moana 2 is a new and exciting journey for Moana. This sequel brings her liveliness and bravery back on the big screen, while also representing Pacific Islanders and making them feel seen.

The story follows Moana receiving an unexpected call from her ancestors telling her to restore an island that will connect all the people across the ocean. This journey is more risky than last time — will she and her crew make it?

The main characters are Moana (Auli’i Cravalho), Maui (Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson), Moni (Hualalai Chung), Loto (Rose Matafeo), Kele (David Fane), Heihei (Alan Tudyk) and Simea (Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda). We see the return of many beloved characters, with the addition of some new ones. It’s fun to see some former characters pop up at random times. However, I question whether the addition of so many new characters is necessary — it almost feels forced. The playful connection between Moana and Maui remains the same, but even at a deeper level as they have matured. In terms of the music, it is very upbeat and energetic, and Moana’s voice has improved so much. It’s stronger and has so much emotion, which adds to the plot, showing us how strongly Moana feels about taking the ancestor’s call. The animation is wonderful; it truly captures the beauty of the islands with its vibrant colors and captures the characters’ emotions through their expressive faces. The plot is enjoyable, despite some holes. It’s a creative take on Moana’s journey, not only to the ocean, but inside herself. She knows the risk of taking this journey, and she especially doesn’t want to leave her little sister, Simea. But, she makes a difficult decision and ends up trying to restore the people. This could be a symbol of unity. My favorite part is the beginning, when the villagers are shown – it reminds me of the first movie and is so beautiful because it represents the Pacific Islanders’ culture. 

The film’s message is that there’s always another way to solve a problem. A goddess tells Moana that, even when it seems impossible, there’s always another way. This gives Moana the motivation to push through and be strong. It also emphasizes the importance of community and sticking together.

Moana 2 gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 18. Moana 2 comes out in theaters November 27, 2024. 

Moana 2

By Avani M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

With a new outfit, boat snack, crew and a little sister, Moana 2 is a fantastic movie with great animation, an awesome storyline and important messages.  

Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) goes on an epic journey as a wayfinder with a new crew, consisting of engineer Loto (Rose Matafeo), historian Moni (Hualalai Chung) and master farmer Kele (David Fane). This time, she goes in search of an ancient island in order to unite all the people of other islands like her ancestor Tautai Vasa (Gerald Ramsey) tried to do. 

The animation is beautiful and lively with vivid colors. The ocean is clear and bright, with unlimited shades of blue. The creatures are a contrasting blend of color and darkness. Like the first film, the music is inspiring and exceptional. Sung by many powerful voices the songs are catchy and filled with emotion and lessons. Moana 2 introduces many new characters such as villagers Loto, Moni, and Kele who join her on her voyage and work together to save the future of their people. They bring a sense of loyalty and commitment to Moana as they navigate the seas together. Auli’i Cravalho delivers an outstanding performance as Moana. She portrays the character so well – you can hear the emotion in her voice when she is feeling down, but also her power when fighting and expressing her love for her younger sister. Her singing is flawless, powerful and moving. Dwayne Johnson is amazing as Maui because you can hear the humor, heart and motivation when he is talking with Moana. Allen Tudyk reprises an even funnier voice to Hei Hei. Awhimai Fraser plays another new character, Matangi, who sings a beautiful song called “Get Lost” about how when one’s path seems impossible, there is always another way. Moana’s grandma plays a key role in her life. She helps Moana when she is conflicted between leaving her island or keeping their people alive. 

Moana 2 has so many great themes starting with: we never stop choosing who we are. Other people will guide us, but we are the ones who ultimately choose our own future. It also shows us that there is always another way to do something and that you have to trust the process even when it is risky. Be warned that some creatures might be a bit scary for younger audiences.

Moana 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on November 27, 2024.

Trailer: