I find the Kipper television series to be sweet in a low-key manner that is very soothing to watch, and this picture book is like reading a Kipper episode in book form. Actually, I think there is an episode with this story, and if so, I'm not sure which came first, the book or the television show. In most cases like this, I would find the book derivative; books based on TV usually are. However, I like this book. Just as with the television series, I find the story adorable and calming, yet not boring at all, but actually very appealing.

The story takes place on Christmas Eve. Kipper sets out to find a tree, a living one all covered in snow, and brings one home (along with a mouse). En route, he meets Pig and Arnold, and they visit for a time. They leave to wrap gifts, but later return, along with Tiger. They all exchange gifts, then each one is off to home, and bed, to await the blissful morning. All along, Kipper has been wondering which is better, Christmas or Christmas Eve. He ends the story with a decision: Christmas Eve. But then he wanders out on to the roof because he can't sleep, and the reader wonders if in the morning he might not decide that Christmas is better, after all. I like how the book ends in that spot, with Kipper and Arnold on roofs opposite each other, awake and waiting, happily longing for morning.

Did I mention that on the last page, Arnold's reindeer hat has a real flashing red light? This is probably my girl's favorite part, although they do like the rest of the story. I also am a fool for innovations in books, so I like it, too. But I appreciate other aspects of the book, such as the characters, the little detail of the mouse hiding in the tree and how only Arnold notices it, the fact that Kipper wants whatever Santa brings him for Christmas, and the gentle spirit that pervades the story, that encourages friendship and gratitude and love. If you want an uplifting Christmas story that is suitable for younger readers, Kipper is a good choice. ( )