My second grader loves to read and she also loves to draw and color, so when I was given this book by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review, I naturally welcomed the opportunity. In an age where we are constantly being inundated by gadgets of every kind, it is refreshing to get back to the basics with pencils, color pencils, and crayons!

The story here is perfect for Christmas with a unique twist on the traditional Santa and his reindeer storyline. There's a horse named Crasher who is eager to help Santa deliver toys but there's a problem - Santa will not allow anything but the reindeer to help him pull his sleigh. No amount of cajoling, begging, or disguising on Crasher's part convinces Santa to give him a chance. Then a terrible windstorm blows through and traps Santa's reindeer - only Crasher knows their location. With time running out for Santa's toy delivery schedule, will Crasher do the right thing and help the reindeer or will he use the opportunity to fulfill his long-held dream of flying with Santa? The story has all the charm of a true Christmas story, including the expected happy ending!

I think this book is wonderful on many levels - it serves to entice reluctant readers who are more visually inclined to get engaged with a story, it can also be used to improve listening skills among younger children who can listen to a story and then be encouraged to draw a picture of what they have listened to, and it can motivate children to draw and improve on their artistic skills.

The "You-Draw-It" series can also be kept as cherished keepsakes by parents or given as a gift to a grandparent after a child has illustrated it. I am sure it will be treasured and displayed with much pride! This makes a perfect holiday gift!