I remember reading this book as a kid and being obsessed with the costumes worn in "The Nutcracker" scenes in here, as well as the cozy cookie baking scenes! The story itself is a good one, but personally I think Helen Craig's artwork is really what makes this such a lovely Christmas book. ( )

After peeking in his window at Christmastime, Angelina befriends a lonely, retired postman who in turn helps cheer up her cousin Henry, who is sulking about not being able to meet Santa.

I never got into the Angelina Ballerina franchise and this wisp of a story does nothing to draw me into her world. Being a kind peeping tom who dances ballet is not much of a personality. ( )

As Angelina Ballerina returns home from school, she notices one house that seems cold and dark. She asks her mum about it. It turns out the house belongs to the old postman, Mr. Bell, who lives there all alone. With her father and reluctant little cousin, Henry, in tow, Angelina decides to bring some holiday cheer to the old man. While the Mouselings decorate the Christmas tree, Mr. Bell prepares a surprise of his own for them and teaches Henry that a little kindness goes a long way.

The Bottom Line: Little fans of the Angelina Ballerina series will be charmed by this sweet story of friendship, kindness, and finding the true meaning of Christmas. Craig's engaging and detailed illustrations help tell this magical tale. Highly recommended seasonal reading for children ages 3 - 8.

This review also appears at the Mini Book Bytes Book Review Blog. ( )

Angelina and her cousin Henry show true Christmas spirit when they visit old Mr. Bell, the retired postman who lives all alone. Their generosity is rewarded when they discover that there is a real Father Christmas living right in their own village. ( )

25 months - nicely illustrated and a good hearted Christmas story. ( )