The Night the reindeer saved Christmas by Raj Kaur Khaira and illustrated by Kasia Nowowiejska is entertaining festive read. Published by Studio Press the book celebrates female reindeers and features a Claus family of colour.
Everything is organised for Christmas Eve preparations and Mr Claus is happy as can be until he receives the dreaded phone call …the rockets on his sleigh have exploded.
With only a few hours to go this newly published read takes readers on a rapid adventure of attempting to find a replacement for the sleigh. Animals seem to be the best replacement, and there are a number of North Pole ones who are willing to audition, Britians Got Talent/X Factor style, for the job. Will they be reliable enough to deliver all those presents?
This is a witty read complete with diverse characters illustrated by Kasia Nowowiejska.
The Claus family is made up of a tanned skin Mr Claus and a Black Mrs Claus. In fact I did notice Mr Claus wearing a kara, a detail that may be seen as a bracelet, which it is, but also is a silver bracelet worn by many Sikhs and Hindus, implying that Mr Claus is Punjabi. The way in which Mr Claus drapes his shawl reminded me of older Bollywood actors also.
As the story progresses it is female reindeers who come to the rescue but it is also another point of learning here as readers discover that female reindeers keep their antlers all year round unlike male reindeers. This fact was author Raj Kaur Khaira inspiration for the book and also I feel, connects to her work in empowering girls and woman.
Once the story has ended there is also further information about the animals included in this book.
If you’re looking for a pacey, fun, festive read which has a diverse cast, this is a great pick.