<p>The irrepressible Froggy's best Christmas is also his first, as he usually hibernates through it. Once his friend Max the beaver wakes him up, though, he quickly gets into the holiday spirit, dressing in jig time ("Zip! Zut zut zut! Zup! Znap! Zat! Zwit! Zum!"), hieing off with other newly awakened friends to drag home a tree, decorate it, sing carols, throw snowballs, exchange gifts and sentiments (" 'Christmas is about friends . . . and family, too.' " "It's the spirit of giving that counts," etc.), and chow down. Remkiewicz's festive cartoon illustrations are replete with open-mouthed grins. A cameo from "Santa Owl" is the only surprise here, but as Froggy continues to hop through the holidays, he has plenty of fans hopping along behind. (Picture book. 5-7)</p>

Froggy's friend Max wakes him from his winter nap so he can experience his first Christmas. They wake two more friends and trudge through the snow in search of the perfect Christmas tree. After trimming the tree, opening presents, roasting chestnuts, caroling, and having a snowball fight, Froggy declares, "This is my best Christmas ever!" Though the story lacks tension, the humor and spirited artwork will put Froggy fans in the holiday mood.