I knew of this book but ignored it until I had the chance to flip through it at a bookstore. It's not the entire song, as the book goes from first to second to third etc. without the repetition until the last page when it counts down from twelve. The song is written with enough repeated consonant and vowel sounds to make it fun to read.

The illustrations are delightful and the choice of Canadiana to include covers both icons (like beavers and Mounties) to stereotype (the "Ten Leafs a-leaping" mostly leaping after the "Five Stanley Cups."). The lone porcupine in the little pine tree takes in the arrival of the rest of the song's cast which interact with each other until things get very crowded and accommodations must be made. Definitely a cute book to give to a Canadian, regardless of age, or for a Canadian to give someone else as a holiday souvenir. ;) ( )

I already kinda wish I were Canadian - which way will this influence me?

Jake's Review: This book is really funny and the illustrations are even funnier. Now I understand why Mom was laughing so much when she read it. Even Jesse looked at some of the pictures without throwing it away. Why was there a picture with the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Stanley Cup - Dad says there has never been a colour picture with the Leafs and the Cup (Mom's note: Must go slap Hab loving hubby upside the head). I don't think the Americans will find this all that funny, it's more a book for Canadians. That Helaine Becker is a fun lady, you sure she isn't a boy.

Jake's Rating: 10/10

Mom's Review: I truly cannot describe how much I enjoyed this book. If you are a Canadian you will enjoy this. I disagree with Jake, I think the American will like it too. It is chock full of stereotypical Canadian images that is obviously done tongue and cheek. Just plain silly and delightful. The illustrations are adorable and my only complaint is that I don't see a Tim Horton's roll up the rim cup in the illustrations-- now THAT is Canadian - well that and Beer, but it is a kids book. Now must go find my hubby and beat him up for all his snide comments about the Leafs.

Mom's Rating: 10/10

I won a copy of this from the Escape Through the Pages blog ( )

Love this Canadian take on the Twelve Days of Christmas...definately want this one under the tree! can't stop humming the tune, co-workers going insane ; ) ( )