In The 12 Dogs of Christmas, Huntly and Raylee, two children brimming with excitement for the holiday, just can’t wait for Christmas day. Huntly dreams of receiving a pug puppy, while Raylee imagines a world where she could have every dog. That night, inspired by the “12 Days of Christmas” song, Huntly envisions receiving various dogs in a delightful twist called “The 12 Dogs of Christmas.” The assortment of dogs ranges from one pug puppy to two tiny terriers and three French bulldogs, and more, each adding to a festive tapestry of canines at the end. Though the dream ends in the morning, a special surprise awaits Huntly, making his Christmas wish come true.

This children’s book is a warm embrace of the holiday spirit, reminiscent of classic Christmas tales. It captures the boundless imagination of children and introduces young readers to the diverse and joyful world of dogs. The story beautifully captures the essence of childhood wonder, particularly through Huntly’s dream sequence, which cleverly plays on the traditional “12 Days of Christmas” with a canine twist. This imaginative journey through a parade of puppies not only adds a layer of whimsy but also allows young readers to explore their own fantasies about holiday gifts and magical moments.

The story is crafted in simple and accessible language, making it a joy for early readers to read independently and a delight for younger children to experience with their parents. The illustrations by Allan and Deborah Drew-Brook-Cormack are vibrant and lively, perfectly capturing the festive atmosphere. I loved the scene where the Scotties were sitting in front of the fire place where the cute stockings were hanging.

The 12 Dogs of Christmas is an excellent picture book for families eager to indulge in the holiday spirit. It encourages children to dream big and celebrates the joy of the season. I highly recommend this charming children’s book as a perfect holiday read for young children.

ASIN: B0DJWSLD8L