Children’s books

THE Very Merry Mice by Jack Tickle (Little Tiger; €10.66) is a sturdy book for toddlers. The playful mice are having fun during the lead-up to Christmas. Each spread features a surprise festive pop-up. Fun for little hands.

Father Christmas Needs A Wee by Nicholas Alan (Red Fox; €8.35) is a buttock-clenching account of Santa’s reaction to the juices, teas and milkshakes left out for him on his travels. By the time he gets home he’s red-faced and cross-legged, But wait! Where’s the door key? Giggle-aloud rudeness for age six and upwards. The accompanying CD is hilariously read by Bernard Cribbens.

The Best Christmas Ever by Marni McGee and Gavin Scott (LittleTiger; €13.03). In her search for ingredients for her apple-nut pie, Millicent Mouse finds a hedgehog lying in the freezing snow. She makes him a cosy nest. This draws other needy creatures and soon her house is filled and there’s nothing done for Christmas. However, Christmas morning brings a delightful conclusion to this heartening tale.