I feel for Maple in Maple & Willow’s Christmas Tree, as I, too, am allergic to real Christmas trees. Though I never thought (but do like the idea) I was “allergic to Christmas” though. This statement made by little sister, Willow, is a very typical kid thing to say. In fact, this whole book (and the series overall) is a very typical little kid thing. However, the fact Willow feels sorry for hurting her sister’s feelings is more of an adult take and a typical contemporary subject than something that child might come to naturally. Of course, if you teach a child compassion, then they just might be like Willow and want to fix things. Hence the point of the stories!
Lori Nichols has created a sweet story about sisterly love and friendship. The sweet and delightful illustrations are also just so sweet. Did I mention this book is sweet? If you are not a “sweet story” person this will not be for you. However, most people will be a fan. There is a lot to like, and even this ol’ Grinch is a fan.
One of the odder, but fun things due to what comes from it, is the fact Willow can do the thing she does at the end. It is a little fanciful, but a nice touch for commenting on the true meaning of Christmas. (Spoiler) I might have to have a Christmas Ladder someday myself. After all, you can only have so many Christmas Pumpkins to put your gifts around.