ABOUT THE BOOK
12 Days of Getting Ready for Christmas
Written by Tanya Harvey
Illustrated by Chelsea Peters
Ages: 4-6 | 24 Pages
Publisher: Newtown Station Press (2024) | ISBN: 978-1069140333
Publisher’s Book Summary: Celebrate the joyful chaos of the holiday season! No pear trees here! This modern twist on a classic countdown reminds us that Christmas is not just about the Big Day, but how we cherish preparing for it together. From decorating the tree to last-minute shopping, each day presents a new challenge — and plenty of laughter — as the family works together to ensure everything is ready for their holiday celebration. This charming story captures the love and dedication that go into making the season special, reminding us how quickly it passes by — and how the journey is where the memories are made. Filled with delightful illustrations that bring heartwarming moments to life, The 12 Days of Getting Ready for Christmas is a whirlwind of festive fun, perfect for readers of all ages — especially Moms who make Christmas magical.
PURCHASE LINK
YOUTUBE VIDEO
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iU0PC_yIs9c
MY REVIEW
The book follows the pattern of the traditional song and adds a new errand or activity each day. Mother, father, and two little girls are busy with wrapping gifts, shopping trips, craft projects, and blinging out the tree. Illustrations show the family driving home with the tree tied to the roof of the car, trying to unwind the light strands, and the cat batting ornaments around. As the days progress, mom and dad begin to look a bit ragged although the kids are singing and enjoying candy canes. By day 7 dad declares, “No more shopping trips.”
The cumulative text has occasional changes such as “we’re all done with glue” and “no more crafts to do” as preparations are completed. In the illustrations readers can see dad upgrading to a new snow shovel and then to a snow blower as the snow continues to fall or mom looking frazzled by ”More toys that sing!” But text and images work together to capture the feeling of a busy time getting ready to share holiday joy with family. A QR code even allows readers to sing along for a fun time with their own family and friends.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Tanya Harvey has always loved art, storytelling, and creativity — but for years she pushed those dreams aside. A traditional career, a busy life, a comfortable path… until one day she realized it was now or never. She didn’t want her ideas, her stories, or her love for creating to be left behind.
All in on herself:
With the support of her family, Tanya followed her heart and became a children’s author and entrepreneur. She’s still a student in this role — learning, adapting, and exploring new things like animation and sound production. The best part? She has discovered how much fun it is to be fully herself.
Tanya creates because she can’t not. She loves solving problems, cracking the code, and bending the rules when the status quo is just that. Each story begins as a need — a better potty book, or a way to capture the magic of Christmas. She follows the sparks of joy, and that’s where the magic happens. Sometimes those sparks help others find connection, too.
For more information, visit tanyaharvey.ca.
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https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4AECfs3lXFzX6zB4p9crJw
ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR
In 2013, Chelsea graduated with high honours from Sheridan College with a Bachelor’s of Illustration Degree, while winning the prestigious Silver Medalist’s Award for highest overall grade point average in her program. She also earned an Art Fundamentals Certificate with high honours in 2008.
When she’s not creating, Chelsea can be found spending time with her family and rescue dog, indulging in a tea latte, soaking up nature, or getting lost in a good book. Her creativity and passion for her craft are matched only by her love for the simple pleasures in life.
TOUR SCHEDULE
This post is sponsored by Tanya Harvey. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal views.
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