25 Days – Book 7: The Christmas Quiet Book

Our seventh book of this Christmas journey is a brand new, fresh-off-the-press beauty called The Christmas Quiet Book (2012). This gorgeous book was written by Deborah Underwood and illustrated by Canadian talent, Renata Liwska.

With all the hustle, bustle and loudness of the Christmas season, this book celebrates the moments of quiet amidst all the chaos.

A special companion of sorts to the equally stunning works of The Quiet Book and The Loud Book; this narration helps readers savor and anticipate the quiet moments like drinking cocoa, turning the tree lights on, standing under a mistletoe, searching for presents, and trying to stay awake for Santa. The text is simple, clever descriptions; and the images are soft, beautiful renderings of fuzzy animals preparing for the season.

The moment I saw this book come out in October, I claimed it. I am a huge fan of Underwood and Liwska’s previous books, and this one does not disappoint either. The moments are nostalgic, sweet, and downright funny too. (That costume designer one in the spread above is most likely my favorite. Makes me laugh every time!) I love that it can be appreciated by children and adults alike, and in different ways. Some jokes may be lost on little ones, but you’d be surprised by what they do understand. And the overall package of appreciating the season is perfect to share with everyone.

Deborah Underwood has quite a few books to her name, including a new one coming in January 2013. Her style in these books is humorous and memorable and I particularly love how not wordy she tends to be. The lines are short, but with great impact. That takes some writing talent.

Renata Liwska (full bio on Pippin Properties, her agent) has quickly become one of my favorite illustrators. Originally from Poland, she now resides in Canada (which sadly disqualifies her from receiving any Caldecotts!). She does the art for these books with pencil and then colors them digitally. The effect is stunning. The cross-hatched shading is so delicate, and it makes you feel like you could cuddle each of the characters. I’m also impressed when an artist is able to really personify animals. Oh, the facial expressions! I look forward to seeing much more from her.

Also, I must include the book trailer for this beauty.

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt has also created a website for The Christmas Quiet Book. There’s even an activity kit!! And in the words of Deborah Underwood, “Wishing you a quiet holiday!”

Follow along our book adventure at 25 Days of Christmas Books.