Two better friends could not be found. Though they are pigs, they are kind, thoughtful, and irresistibly lovable in much the same way as the characters in Arnold Lobel's
Frog and Toad series ... but even more so. This is a Christmas book without the frenzy or the glitz that often accompanies the season. Nor does it bend into the religious sphere. It's all about a true and gentle caring that taps solidly into the heart of the holiday.
Holly Hobbie's uncluttered watercolor illustrations are painted with a pleasant precision. Dressed in bulky winter sweaters, knitted scarves, and comfortable ski pants, Toot and Puddle are always small within the scene, but expressive, colorful, and central against the background. They are smiling and playful, except on the rainy-day page when their expressions match their disappointment. And they are always very, very cute. If kids haven't already met Toot and Puddle, they are in for a treat, not only with this book but with the others in this series that has spanned the past 10 years.
