Marilyn Helmer. One Splendid Tree.
Illustrated by Dianne Eastman
Kids Can  $17.95  ISBN 1-55337-683-8  30 pg.
Reviewed by Sarah, Age 15

Imagine a small family, broken apart by the war and struggling to make ends meet - this is how One Splendid Tree unfolds. As Christmas draws closer the family’s spirits are low. Not even enough money for a tree let alone enough sugar rations for Christmas treats. Then one day Junior has a splendid idea …

Wow! This book is destined to be a Christmas classic. Its illustrations are very different; I have never seen this type before. They really caught my eye and made me want to read the whole story just so I could see all of them. Throughout the book, I was astounded by the heartfelt love and joy of Christmas that was captured on the pages. The story was so touching it made me want to cry and jump for joy all at once.

This book is a Christmas season must. I think that every family should read this book at Christmastime, as a reminder of what the season is really about. It is a timeless tale and should be on everyone’s Christmas reading list.

Five shining stars for One Splendid Tree.