Search - The Best Christmas Eve! (Barney)

This book was for my granddaughter who is 2 1/2. She loves all things Barney and Christmas, so the book was a hit. She's kee[ing the book, so we won't be reposting it.

ISBN 0307988155 - Barney came to TV when my son was 3 years old and I was ready to go dinosaur hunting by the time my son turned four. Since then, I've watched a whole lot less of the show and find myself a bit nostalgic for the purple guy, especially in books (where, yes, I can't hear him sing).

It's Christmas Eve at Barney's house and Barney, BJ and Baby Bop are getting ready. They've finished dinner and it's snowing outside, so they decorate the tree and place gifts under it. They carol, hang their stockings, leave a snack for Santa and even carrots for his reindeer - all on "the most magical night of the year." Finally, Barney ushers BJ and Baby Bop off to bed, but they're certain they won't sleep... but, of course, they do, and just in the, um, "Nick" of time!

Golden Books are never bad! The text, by Stephen White, is simple and a bit repetitive, with "the most magical night of the year" on almost every page. This makes it a bit boring to read for an adult, but kids will enjoy the predictability of that one line, which gives them a chance to join in. Illustrator Darrell Baker did a great job, with images that cover almost every inch of every page with bright, cheerful colors. Barney fans, of course, will love the book; non-fans, ex-fans, and parents who have tired of the show will still find much here to like. I'm happily surprised to say I like this book, "the most magical night of the year" and all.

- AnnaLovesBooks