12 Days of Christmas Picture Books - Waiting for Christmas

Today's title is out of print, unfortunately. But if you can get your hands on a copy, either through a used bookstore or, even better, at the library, you won't be sorry.

The smell of cookies baking, the lights on the tree, brightly colored packages and the joy of seeing friends and family -- it's all captured vividly in Monica Greenfield's Waiting for Christmas. The excitement builds as we join a boy and girl preparing to celebrate with their extended family. Jan Spivey Gilchrist's paintings are so lively and festive, they nearly jump off the page, and the homey setting is just right to spread the eager anticipation of the season.

Sprout loves this one, and so do I. The words are simple, but powerful, as is the message -- that Christmas, like all holidays, is best celebrated together. You can practically taste the gingerbread!