#blogbookaday: Red & Lulu

Summary:  “Separation and miles cannot keep a determined cardinal from his loved one in an ode to serendipity and belief that is destined to be a new Christmas classic.

Red and Lulu make their nest in a particularly beautiful evergreen tree. It shades them in the hot months and keeps them cozy in the cold months, and once a year the people who live nearby string lights on their tree and sing a special song: O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree. But one day, something unthinkable happens, and Red and Lulu are separated. It will take a miracle for them to find each another again. Luckily, it’s just the season for miracles. . . . From Matt Tavares comes a heart-tugging story combining the cheer of Christmas, the magic of New York City, and the real meaning of the holiday season: how important it is to be surrounded by love.” (Taken from Goodreads)

Review: I know this is a holiday story, but it’s still January and since I didn’t get a chance to read this in 2017, I’m glad I can review it now. This story is beautiful and is only outmatched by the gorgeous illustrations, both by Matt Tavares. With a unique perspective and a story about tradition that I didn’t know much about, this story of hope and love is a must-read for the Christmas season.

Personal Reaction: I love the Christmas season and I’m so excited to add a new title to my collection of Christmas stories. I really enjoyed how the perspective of the illustrations changed throughout the story as well as the way Matt Tavares was able to capture the magic of the season with snow, twinkle lights and the largest Christmas tree you can find.

Title: Red & Lulu
Author: Matt Tavares
Illustrator: Matt Tavares
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Publication Date: September 19, 2017

This is a new idea I’m trying on my blog this year that was inspired by @donalynbooks and @heisereads – to provide a brief review of a picture book every day of 2018. You’ll get a brief summary of the story, a review of the content, illustrations and theme, my personal reaction to the book and all the pertinent publication information! Enjoy!