Clarice Bean, Think Like an Elf - by Lauren Child

About the Book

"Clarice Bean loves Christmas, and she's determined to spread tidings of joy in every possible way. That means making cards to send the neighbors, no matter how unfriendly; assisting a friend in need; stepping in at the Christmas concert; and helping out at home. But as hard as Clarice tries to spread the good cheer, it becomes clear that this holiday season will look different for the Tuesday family."--

Book Synopsis

With the help of Lauren Child's wit and visual humor, Clarice Bean kindles the holiday spirit in a full-color illustrated novel perfect for family sharing--and certain to be a keeper.

Christmas cannot be Christmas without the Christmas spirit, so it is important to keep an eye on it and not let it float away.

Clarice Bean loves Christmas, and she's determined to spread tidings of joy in every possible way. That means making cards to send the neighbors, no matter how unfriendly; assisting a friend in need; stepping in at the Christmas concert; and helping out at home. But as hard as Clarice tries to spread the good cheer, it becomes clear that this holiday season will look different for the Tuesday family. Mom and Dad are too exhausted to even think of hosting their usual big gathering, decorating the tree turns into an evening of calamities, and the dog eats the turkey. But as they say, good things fall apart so better things can fall together. Maybe Clarice's creative problem-solving--and some surprise help--can inspire the Tuesdays to embrace the holiday mishaps and enjoy a day better than anyone imagined! Lauren Child's beloved Clarice Bean is back--in a singular celebration of family, joy, and Christmas spirit.

Review Quotes

On nearly every page, Child's effervescent mix of sketches and collages stylishly records highs and low on the way to a satisfying, climactic gathering. . . A warm and bustling Christmas story: "exceptionordinarily" joyful.
--Kirkus Reviews

Visually, the book is original and appealing, with drawings, photos, and colorful collages illustrating the story and the text printed in red. Clarice's lively, amusing first-person narrative offers a fresh take on the holiday season as experienced by a child growing up in a quirky but lovable family. A rewarding addition to the Clarice Bean series of transitional chapter books.
--Booklist

Clarice Bean fans rejoice: the star of highly illustrated chapter books (and of picture books) brings her trademark exuberant stream-of-consciousness narration (with occasional sly authorial snark) to Christmas. . . An enjoyable chapter book full of wit and good cheer.
--The Horn Book

Child's illustrations and collages perfectly complement the text and bring the characters, setting, and Christmas spirit to life. . . . An absolutely charming story for the Christmas season, and an essential purchase for fans of the 'Clarice Bean' series.
--School Library Journal

If you kid loves wit and goofy humor, then they will love this full-color illustrated novel full of wacky hijinks and Christmas cheer.
--Romper

About the Author

Lauren Child has published many picture books, including The New Small Person, Absolutely One Thing, and A Dog with Nice Ears, as well as the hugely popular Charlie and Lola and Clarice Bean series and a spin-off series of novels about Ruby Redfort. About this book she says, "My childhood memories of Christmas are all good--even the things that went wrong were good. Perhaps it's to do with that childhood wish for it all to be good that somehow makes it so." She has won numerous awards, including the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal. Lauren Child lives in London.