Santa's Puppy by Catherine Hapka
Published by HMH Books for Young Readers on October 15, 2019
ISBN: 0358051843
Pages: 240
Genres: Animals
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

Santa’s puppy, Peppermint Bark, has alwasy wanted to ride with Santa on Christmas. This year, he stows away on the sleigh, and he ends up left behind at Chris and Holly’s house in the Christmasy town of Poinsettia. Because they’re so filled with Christmas cheer, Chris, Holly, and their friend, Ivy, can hear Peppermint Bark speak (as well as the jingle bells that come with his wagging tail), and they conspire to help Peppermint Bark get back to the North Pole by the end of Christmas Day.

The cheesy Christmas references are almost too much in this book.

This lighthearted, fun Christmas story will delight young readers. It’s simple, easy to follow, and kids will enjoy all the holiday references. This book would be best for 2-4 graders and would be a great book for a family read aloud or just as a fun holiday read.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME