Olivia Helps with Christmas

Hyperactive porcine heroine Olivia returns in this fifth picture-book devoted to her continuing adventures, this time "helping" her family prepare for Christmas, as she eagerly awaits the arrival of Santa Claus. Whether it's detangling the Christmas tree lights, or setting the table for dinner, Olivia has her own way of doings things - a way that often leads to hilarity. In the end, despite some missteps, Christmas in Olivia's family is full of love and warmth...Author/illustrator Ian Falconer continues to demonstrate an almost flawless grasp of picture-book creation in Olivia Helps with Christmas, which pairs beautiful and humorous artwork with an engaging, entertaining tale. Anyone who recalls the eager anticipation they felt, in the days leading up to Christmas, will recognize a bit of themselves in Olivia, as she continually keeps a look-out for Santa Claus. I found myself giggling at many of the scenes here, whether it was of Olivia helplessly tangled up in the lights - I've struggled to deal with Christmas tree lights myself! - or of the family dog Perry eating the treats left out for Santa. Recommended to anyone who has read and enjoyed other stories about Olivia, as well as to anyone looking for fun Christmas tales that capture the childhood magic of the holiday.

I think I am officially sold on the Olivia series. The first time I tried reading this book, I had two squirming, squabbling toddlers on my lap (one on each leg). Needless to say, it was difficult to be open-minded about any equally mischievous heroine when every other thing you say starts with "Wait! No! That's a bad idea!" However, having now read several of the Olivia books, I have decided that they are wonderful, humorous, intricate books worthy of attention. The Christmas installment is particularly adorable, as it is related to so many children and parents, particularly with how it handles Santa.

Just like any kid, Christmas eve is a very anxious day for a little pig named Olivia. Olivia does everything she can to make the time pass from placing the lights on the tree to setting the table for Christmas eve dinner. Finally its time for bed and time for Santa to come. All children experiences the anxiety of waiting for Santa to come and this story fits perfectly with how every kid feels on Christmas eve. The author takes a yearly experiences and makes it fresh for young readers.

Olivia tries to help out with the preparations for Santa's arrival.

Very cute book that I could read to my class for fun around Christmas time. I enjoyed this book because I see it being very relate-able to children on Christmas eve. With the helping to pass time, the sleepless night, the worries and the morning rush. And Olivia still doesn't lose her girl power, even during Christmas time.

Olivia enjoys the festivities of Christmas Eve and Christmas by spending time with and helping her family in various ways.