Christmas Thief

From its startling title, CHRISTMAS THIEF, to the enchanting finale (a rendition of OH, LIT-TLE TOWN OF M-OUSE-VILLE)..here is a book for all ages. The size to be held in the hands of the youngest 'reader', it should be purchased by twos; one to be held as the illustrations are studied, one to be read from....Delightful pictures that blossom on every page will be scrutinized & talked about. The setting for the story is a gathering of all the wood creatures to celebrate the holiday. It is presided over by competent & lovable Mrs. Mouse. Suddenly Tom, her son, discovers that something is missing. The circumstances are sinister & the fear of a thief among them makes for near-panic. Comfortable Mrs. Mouse calms her vindictive son Tom to the point of listening to the words of the tiny thief, a yellow duckling whose handicap has given him a sad history. Author Catherine Doris Pierce does not labor this aspect but the happy conclusion to the story is reached through a lesson in compassion for the hungry little creature who is less fortunate than big, healthy Tom Mouse. The story ends in song & in sighs of bed-time peace. Of course, the lame & lost duckling has a new name & has found a new home.Pierce, Catherine D. is the author of 'Christmas Thief', published 1988 under ISBN 9780962139703 and ISBN 096213970X.