Jan Brett's illustrated version of this poem is still my favourite version, but Rackham's treatment is still very wonderful. The mixture of paintings, silhouettes, and line drawings gives the poem a subtle elegance, and Rackham's characterization is distinctly Victorian (he is his own model for the father). The elf-sized Santa was actually quite charming - after all it makse sense to have him a scale small enough to fit down a chimney with ease - and I particularly enjoyed the painting of Santa's sleigh winding its way through a crowded (by houses) London street by lamp-light. ( )

I absolutely loved this poem. When I found this book in the children’s section of the library, waves of nostalgia washed over me. This poem is so well done and provides so much imagery and description while telling a fantastic winter time story. Tasha Tudor's neutral toned but detailed water-colors added a sense of fluidity. The movie in my head from the poem came alive in the illustrations of the landscapes. Santa is pictures just as the story describes him and he even appears to be about the same size as the dog in the book. He looks like an elf just like described. He has pointy ears and a red robe that looks like he came from the north pole. The themes of joy and ambiance of excitement and happiness will hopefully carry though future generations. ( )

This is the classic "The Night Before Christmas" poem. This has been one of my favorites since a child. This book was different with the illustration based off of a very long time ago so it was very interesting. This poem talks about the night before Christmas when the children are sleeping and just different things that might also be going on at the same time. For example: the children were dreaming, one child hears St. Nick, most are sleeping, Santa dropping off the toys, and then tells the child who sees him, " Happy Christmas to all and to all a good night." Great book/poem for Christmas. I believe all ages would enjoy this book. ( )

The Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore opens with illustrations on each page either black or colored. This famous Christmas poem is a great book for children to read before the morning of Christmas. Toys, garlands, and wreaths decorate the home of the family mentioned in the poem. It gives you the Christmas feeling and comfort feeling knowing that St. Nick will soon be arriving down the chimney! This story creates many journeys and thoughts for St. Nick and the family.

Fine condition