Holy gorgeous illustrations. That was the wording I was going to choose even before I realized this was a book about Baby Jesus. The fox looks so cuddly, and the light is so soft and the snow looks so cozy, I just love the illustration style so so much. Though stories about Jesus don't really speak to me in any way, and the fox seemed to get a pass for ignoring everyone asking for help because he made the baby laugh in the end. ( )

"Come," the animals cry, one by one, telling of the things that they feel must be done for the baby that is coming. The woodpecker speaks of spreading the news, the cows of making the manger warm, the lams of making soft, cozy gifts. But the little fox, watching them all and playing in the snow, believes he has nothing to contribute. It is only when the donkey tells him that his presence is enough that he finally comes to the manger. Here, his lighthearted play brings joy to the baby, demonstrating that he does indeed have a gift to give...

A sweet Nativity story from the perspective of a little fox kit, The Christmas Fox pairs a simple but ultimately heartwarming narrative with lovely illustrations. This is the first picture-book I have read from author/illustrator Anik McGrory, and I found her artwork quite appealing. Her use of color and light is adept, and her little vulpine hero is depicted with great energy and expressiveness. It probably helps that I love both wintry vistas and anything fox-related! Recommended to anyone looking for Christmas stories featuring the animals that came to the Nativity. ( )