Publisher's Weekly Review
In this amiable tale of catastrophe averted, Mrs. Santa Claus awakens on a morning just before Christmas to find her husband's face covered with spots. And as if that weren't alarming enough, the reindeer are similarly afflicted. Wasting no time, the harried Mrs. Claus puts the finishing touches on all the toys; but how will she deliver them without reindeer? Her resourcefulness knows no bounds: she fashions a ``flying machine'' out of her bike, a vacuum cleaner and an umbrella, then makes the appointed rounds. When she returns home, Santa and his steeds are back on their feet, and their industrious helper ``enjoys a long, hot soak.'' The real bonbons here are Ives's irresistible illustrations, merrily colored and crowded with delectable details. Her array of treats includes the heroine's furry reindeer slippers, framed pictures of Santa and his reindeer, intricately painted furniture adorned with seasonal motifs and--a special tidbit for little eyes--a slew of freshly made toys. Ages 3-7. (Nov.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
Horn Book Review
Some cute details in the unexciting colored-pencil illustrations are not enough to improve this thin story of Mrs. Claus filling in for her hubby on Christmas Eve. From HORN BOOK 1991, (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Kirkus Review
Calamity! Not only Santa but the reindeer are ill, ``covered in spots.'' Not to worry: after gathering the letters that have fallen during the night with the snow, his wife finishes making the toys, then engineers her own vehicle (vacuum plus bike, hung with baskets), dons the appropriate costume, takes care of Santa's rounds, and comes home to find him well again, ready to run her a lovely bath before the breakfast feast he's prepared. Predictable role reversal, but done with affection and lively good humor that make it one of the holiday season's more appealing new offerings. (Picture book. 4-8)
