SOUTH WALES EVENING POST CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW DEC 2-3

This week my children's book reviews include a Christmas activity book perfect for the festive season, the story of the nativity for the very young, a musical retelling of the Nutcracker and a new doggy super hero from the author of Captain Underpants.

Also in the Weekend section of The South Wales Evening Post.

BOOK OF THE WEEK

THE USBORNE LITTLE CHILDREN'S CHRISTMAS ACTIVITY BOOK

CHILDREN 5+

The ideal stocking filler for the holidays. An activity book packed with things to do so grab a pen and have fun! Children can colour in decorations and spot a missing elf or penguin. They can also use the stickers included to decorate cookies, a Christmas tree or dress Santa and Mrs Claus. It is packed full of puzzles and games galore that kids can play on their own or share with a friend.

ISBN 9781474923897 PB Usborne £6.99

BUSY NATIVITY BY EMILY BOLAM

BOARD BOOK 2+

The perfect introduction for little ones to the story of the first Christmas. Children can push, pull and turn the tabs while joining Mary and Joseph on their long journey to Bethlehem. They can spot angels, kings and animals or rock baby Jesus in his crib. A bright and colourful sturdy board book with rhyming text as well as a question on each spread to encourage gentle discussion.

ISBN 9781509828951 HB Campbell Books £4.99

THE STORY ORCHESTRA: THE NUTCRACKER BY JESSICA COURTNEY-TICKLE

CHILDREN 5+

A magical retelling of the classic Christmas ballet, The Nutcracker. Each spread features a musical note to touch so you can hear ten seconds of Tchaikovsky's original score to bring the story to life. Follow Clara as she meets the Sugar Plum Fairy, watch the battle of the Mouse King and journey to the Land of Sweets. An excellent introduction to a family favourite and classical music and ballet.

ISBN 9781786030009 HB Frances Lincoln £14.99

DOG MAN: A TALE OF TWO KITTIES BY DAV PILKEY

CHILDREN 7+

The newest superhero from the creator of Captain Underpants hasn't always been a paw-sitive addition to the police force. He need to impress his Chief by catching two cat burglars. Will Dog Man catch these devious furballs and prove he's top dog or will they get away with the purrfect crime? A full-colour comic book series encouraging reluctant readers and also perfect for graphic novel fans. It's bursting with jokes, cartoons and tail wagging antics.

ISBN 9780545935210 HB Scholastic £10.99