We’ve all seen Santas in a department store, or mall, perhaps even took children to see him. Yes, pets go see Santa, too, but this book is about kids. ;-) The first time the author played Santa he was surprised he got the job … he was 19 … and skinny! He would continue it for the next 25 years (needing less padding as time went on). Santa Clause Confidential: 150 Laugh-Out-Loud Stories From a Professional Kris Kringle, by Kevin Neary was a most enjoyable holiday read about what just does happen when a child reaches Santa’s lap. What questions do they ask (and how might Santa answer)?

A reunion of college housemates from forty years ago seemed like such a good idea, after all, they had all kept in touch over the years. It’d be fun, yes? Turned out to be a horrible idea what with all the bickering, innuendos, and eventually (of course) a body. Silent Night, Deadly Night is another Year Round Christmas Mystery by Vicki Delany. Add to this the preparation for the annual Christmas parade, and a smarmy new resident who is determined to ‘upgrade’ the floats to bring in more business and corporate sponsors. (I’ve been taken to task for this, but not everything is a business that needs to make money!)

And, for something to read on Christmas Eve, try Sherlock’s Night Before Christmas: a Mystery, by Julie Petersen and illustrated by Sheryl Dickert. It won’t take long, it’s about as long as the poem that inspired this delightful spinoff! Watson keeps saying he has spotted Santa, but Holmes never does … is Watson lying? (That’s not like him, after all). Clever and fun!

Happy Holidays!

Reading Hermit With Dog