'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Friday 2 December 2011

Review: Eloise at Christmastime


First published in 1958, this timeless Christmas book features the irrepressible Eloise at her very best, living it up at the Plaza Hotel with her nanny on Christmas Eve, causing all sorts of typical mischief with the staff and guests.

For those unfamiliar with the Eloise books - this savvy young girl is raised in the most wealthy of circumstances, by her adorable Nanny. Eloise may want for nothing, but she is certainly poverty-stricken when it comes to the attention - or lack thereof - of her pretty permanently missing parents.

Ratbaggy Eloise is absolutely a result of external circumstance, however, her miscreant nature is far from scratchy - indeed, this feisty little girl is charm personified.

In this Christmassy adventure, Hilary Knight’s iconic illustrations in black, white and pink, lend a decidedly festive feel – and children will love exploring the hotel’s floor plan as Eloise sets about on her running, leaping, skibbling, zapping and zimbering rampage. 

Vibrant and utterly adorable. Every home should have one.

Title: Eloise at Christmastime
Author: Kay Thompson
Illustrator: Hilary Knight
Publisher: Simon & Schuster, $26.95 RRP
Publication Date: December 2000
Format: Hard cover with dust jacket
ISBN: 9781742376868
For ages: 5 - 12
Type: Picture Book