Elliot's Christmas Surprise

Carol L. MacKay is a children’s librarian living in Bawlf, Alberta.

Elliot Moose hears noises in the night and wonders if an Elliot-eating
monster is on the loose. Andrea Beck, writer and illustrator of the
Elliot Moose stories, presents a fairly predictable tale about a common
childhood fear in Elliot’s Noisy Night. Still, young children will
find the story comforting when Beck’s familiar stable of appealing
stuffed-toy characters discover that the noises are normal nighttime
sounds. Elliot’s Noisy Night is recommended.

In Elliot’s Christmas Surprise, the youngster struggles with the
concept of giving and comes to understand the true value of an
unassuming gift. While nothing here is really new and shiny, fans of
Elliot will nonetheless enjoy this seasonal tale. As always, Beck’s
colourful pencil-crayon illustrations are expressive and mirror the
action of the text perfectly. Not for those seeking a more adventurous
and imaginative Christmas story. Recommended with reservations.