Common Sense Media Review
By Regan McMahon
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Pigeon thinks he can do Santa's job in funny holiday tale.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 3+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
Before the title page, Santa Claus (shown just from the neck down) says he's stepping away to wrap some presents, and warns readers, DON'T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE SLEIGH. But when the pigeon sees the abandoned sleigh, he asks to do just that and makes his case: "I haven't been so naughty. And you are so nice." He insists, "I can do Santa stuff! How hard can it be?" He keeps begging, but when a reindeer pokes his head in, he's suddenly not so sure.
Is It Any Good?
Mo Willems brings out the best and the funniest in his beloved character in this jolly holiday offering, mixing sarcasm and giggles to make this series addition a winner. It's amazing what a range of emotions he can portray with the bird's face only in profile, revealing just one eye. And he conveys holiday attire and spirit with just one elf hat (with jingle bell) atop the pigeon's feathered head.
Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Sleigh has plenty of laughs for adult readers, too. Like the license plate on Santa's sleigh that reads "HOX3" (as in "Ho ho ho") and the pigeon's curiosity about how to drive the sleigh: "Where's the clutch?" For kids, the pigeon's frustration at not getting what he wants will be most relatable and funny on the page. A perfect holiday read.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the many feelings of the pigeon in Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Sleigh. How does the artists show he's angry? Frustrated? Trying to be nice? Acting like he doesn't care anymore?
Which picture is your favorite? Which one is the funniest?
The pigeon wants to drive the sleigh but doesn't know how it works. How is being curious a good thing? When is it important to ask for help?
Why do you think the Pigeon books are so popular? Why do people love him so much? Would you like to read another one?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Mo Willems
- Genre : Holiday
- Topics : Holidays
- Character Strengths : Curiosity
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Union Square Kids
- Publication date : September 5, 2023
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 3 - 5
- Number of pages : 40
- Available on : Hardback
- Last updated : January 15, 2026
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