That's Not Santa! : Book Review

"That's Not Santa" by Leonard Kessler is a delightful children's book that tells the heartwarming story of a little boy named Tony. Throughout the book, Tony mistakenly identifies various characters as Santa Claus, creating a sense of anticipation and wonder for readers.

The narrative of "That's Not Santa" is simple yet engaging, drawing children into the enchanting world of Christmas. Tony's innocent perspective and his genuine belief in finding the real Santa Claus adds a touch of magic to the story. As Tony encounters people dressed as Santa, including a janitor, a mailman, and even his own father, readers eagerly anticipate whether this time he will truly find Santa. Although Tony repeatedly realizes his mistake, his optimism and determination to find the real Santa never waver.

The illustrations in "That's Not Santa" are charming and vibrant, capturing the spirit of Christmas with their intricate detail and lively colors. Leonard Kessler's artistic style brings the characters and settings to life, immersing young readers in the story. The illustrations perfectly complement the narrative, enhancing the whimsical tone and adding visual appeal to the book.

In addition to entertaining readers, "That's Not Santa" carries a valuable message about imagination and the joy of anticipation. Tony's unshakeable belief in the existence of Santa Claus, despite his repeated encounters with different characters, encourages children to embrace their own imagination and nurture their sense of wonder. The book reminds young readers to embrace the magic and excitement of the holiday season, fostering a spirit of joy and anticipation.

Overall, Leonard Kessler's "That's Not Santa" is a heartwarming and engaging children's book that encapsulates the essence of Christmas. The book's imaginative storytelling, captivating illustrations, and meaningful message make it a must-read for young children during the holiday season. Through Tony's journey, readers are reminded to cherish the magic and wonder that surrounds them, creating a truly delightful reading experience.

What are readers saying?

Leonard Kessler's book, "That's Not Santa," has received a range of opinions from readers. Some praised the book's delightful illustrations and captivating storyline, finding the concept of a child mistaking different characters for Santa Claus to be entertaining and amusing for young readers. The colorful illustrations were especially appealing, capturing the imaginations of children and introducing the idea that Santa represents giving and kindness beyond just Christmas.

On the other hand, some reviewers expressed disappointment with the book, feeling that the story lacked depth and was overly simplistic. These readers found the repetitive nature of the child's mistaken identities tiresome and predictable. They also mentioned that while the illustrations were vibrant, they lacked complexity and detail. These readers believed the book failed to offer enough substance to capture the interest of older children or adults.

Furthermore, a few reviewers criticized the book for deviating from traditional portrayals of Santa Claus. They felt the book presented confusing and misleading information about Santa's appearance and attributes, stressing the importance of maintaining consistency with established folklore and mythology in children's books.

Overall, opinions on Leonard Kessler's "That's Not Santa" were divided. Some readers enjoyed the whimsical story and appealing illustrations, considering it suitable for young audiences. However, others found the book lacking depth and substance, and were disappointed with the deviations from traditional portrayals of Santa Claus. It is advisable for potential readers to consider these varying perspectives before deciding whether or not to pick up this particular book.