I was mentioning to a coworker that if you wanted to count how many different versions of a story there are, he should be looking at The Nutcracker as he had mentioned he was going
to count how many different versions of Charles Dicken’s Christmas Carol came in.
Soon after that, Jan Brett’s The Nutcracker came onto the scene. And of course, I had to read. With a few differences (Mouse King vs. Rat King or Mouse/Rat Queen are the big differences I have noticed) how many Nutcracker books do you need? Okay, collect as many as you want, but Jan Brett will be my choice. The story is so-so (a little modern in the sense Marie tosses her slipper to save the day, but there is no real fighting lead up, let alone seeing the Nutcracker get damaged by brother Fritz), but Brett’s artwork makes up for any holes, issues, or situations you/me might have. Classic Jan Brett art explodes of the page. Crowded to extremes (of course), but this does not take away from anything. The art is worth any time it takes to read. Brett includes a bit of the ballet moments as well as the straightforward story. If you want a nice Nutcracker story, Jan Brett’s the Nutcracker is the one to get.
Of course, as you probably know, I am a Halloween girl, but I do wonder why people forget Thanksgiving. Of course, I understand the historical elements, but I have always used it as a day to show my thanks, that I am grateful for so much. Especially pies. Oh, I like turkey, stuffing, gravy (even occasionally mac and cheese, not to mention my English muffin pizza tradition that started a few years ago) but you can give me pie anytime and I’m a happy gal. In the picture book Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie: A Thanksgiving Celebration we have a young picky eater, who decides that this year is the year she will try pie! But which one? Of course, there is a little struggle, but Peyton finds a way to learn how to be not so picky, and 
still have a great meal. America’s Text Kitchen Kids is the editor. The illustrations are delightful. They are diverse, sweet, colorful, and happy. They give off the feeling of family and togetherness like they are meant to. And there are recipes for some pies as well! (Though I go with my moms tried and true recipe: Mrs. S’s pie is Mrs. Smith’s.)
These are not just holiday treats, but ones that can be enjoyed throughout the year!