How do dinosaurs say Merry Christmas/Happy Chanukah? By Jane Yolen and Mark Teague?

It might seem a little early to be thinking about holiday books (but then again, Halloween decorations have already taken over the malls and grocery stores and it's only just past Labor Day). However, I was lucky enough to receive HOW DO DINOSAURS SAY HAPPY CHANUKAH? and HOW DO DINOSAURS SAY MERRY CHRISTMAS? (Scholastic, 2012) to review (thanks, Scholastic!) and I have to say they gave me a little anticipatory thrill of holiday excitement.

The author/illustrator team of Jane Yolen and Mark Teague has produced a number of these adorable books with their bright, energetic depictions of a wide variety of dinosaurs -- not just the typical T-Rex or Bronto. This newest additions are just as adorable and, as a pair, give kid's a fun view of holiday traditions they might not celebrate themselves.

The parallel story lines that juxtapose both naught and nice dino holiday behavior help kids see that, just like with people, similarities exist even when it might seem there are only differences. From sneaking peeks at presents to putting up decorations to family togetherness, seeing the silly ways dinos might misbehave (and then how they actually behave well) will have kids giggling as they learn a little something about other cultures and traditions.

As always, Teagues colorful depictions of unusual dinosaurs adds to the fun and brings Yolen's quirky verse to life. If you're like me, and you have a box of holiday books packed away with the decorations, then add these two this year.