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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
The Christmas Starfish by J.B. Auchter is a holiday picture book that takes readers beneath the waves for a seasonal adventure in Cape Cod Bay. Framed as a story shared on a winter night, the tale imagines Santa’s sleigh gliding not only through the sky but also across the ocean, where sea creatures dream of gifts just as children do. When Santa arrives offshore, he lowers anchor and quietly visits underwater homes, leaving surprises among the coral, sand, and shells. The narrative introduces a lovely mermaid who has been waiting, and their meeting becomes the heart of the story. Instead of receiving something grand, Santa is given a handmade present, a painted Christmas starfish meant for his tree. The exchange highlights the warmth of giving, friendship, and simple kindness.
J.B. Auchter’s writing is rhythmic, often using rhyme and gentle repetition, making it well-suited to reading aloud. The pacing moves quickly through bright scenes of Santa’s underwater journey, balancing cozy anticipation with small moments of wonder. The illustrations by Ayan Mansoori are colorful, filling each page with sea life, holiday details, and expressive characters that young readers can linger over. The blend of the ocean setting and Christmas magic gives the book a distinctive charm, especially for families who love coastal stories or winter traditions with a twist. Readers who enjoy bedtime holiday tales, underwater fantasy, and picture books centered on thoughtful gift giving will find The Christmas Starfish a sweet seasonal choice. It is particularly enjoyable for children who enjoy Santa stories that feature imaginative new landscapes.
