Santa tells readers about an unusual ChristmasSanta has a job opening, since Prancer will be attending a ventriloquist convention this year. So Elmore, a moose who's long dreamed of pulling Santa's sleigh, applies. He writes a letter to Santa describing his qualifications: He's a "go-getter" with a "good sense of direction" who's mostly overcome his elf phobia. Santa agrees to meet him but immediately notices that Elmore isn't a reindeer. Elmore is sent home but mails another letter, promising to "hit the ground running." Invited back, Elmore accomplishes just that: He remains on the ground. Back home, Elmore writes again, apologizing for omitting the "can't fly" thing. Believing in the power of Christmas miracles, Santa decides to give Elmore another try. But Elmore, having made several unsuccessful attempts at flying, writes another letter wishing Santa good luck finding someone else and enclosing a batch of Chocolate Moose Cookies. This time, Santa offers Elmore a different job. This comical, warmhearted story with an original twist will not only have kids giggling and rooting for Elmore; it will also confirm their belief that wonders really do happen at Christmas. Elmore's tongue-in-cheek correspondence will elicit belly laughs. Nervous Elmore, in his necktie, cuts an endearing figure, as does gentle, brown-skinned Santa, eager to find a place for the wayward moose. Boldt's energetic cartoon illustrations are rife with fun details; note the riotous "classified ads" in front and back endpapers. Santa's elves are racially diverse.A delightful Christmas tale that has it all-holiday cheer, joy, and a most persistent moose.(Picture book. 5-8)

PreS-Gr 2 —Santa Claus is hiring for lead reindeer. When Elmore the moose reads the ad in the newspaper, he decides to apply. His enthusiasm gets him an interview, but when he fails to fly, Santa sends him back home. Through a series of handwritten letters delivered back and forth between the two, Santa agrees to give Elmore multiple chances to prove himself. The letters give readers an inside peek to the emotions each character is feeling. With Santa's belief in him, Elmore keeps trying to improve himself; he even tries to fly. Mixed throughout the spreads are snowman, Mrs. Claus, various elves and reindeer, and a surprise animal named Abner that will make children chuckle when they see the kind of animal Santa has made a spot for at the North Pole. This book will have readers wondering what job Santa will eventually have for Elmore. When they finally see what sweet duties it entails, they will cheer for Elmore and clamor for the next book, as the author provides hints of a follow-up with a new ad involving elves. Christmas colors of green, red, and gold dominate the playful artwork. VERDICT Recommended. Children will love all the tenderness these kindhearted characters will add to the holidays.—Tanya Boudreau