Alison Uttley's story of Little Grey Rabbit's Christmas was first published in 1939 and has more than stood the test of time, rating amongst the great classics of our time, loved by millions, and winning over new readers every day. This striking 60th-anniversary edition of the classic story combines the magic of Alison Uttley's storytelling and Margaret Tempest's divine illustrations, conjuring up the true spirit of Christmas past and present in a stylish and utterly irresistible book. A stunning recreation of all that is good in Little Grey Rabbit's world, with carol singers, mince pies, sprigs of holly and blazing hearths bringing a warmth and delectability to the life of Little Grey Rabbit and his adorable friends, this special edition of the classic tale would make the perfect gift for any child--or indeed any adult--who takes pleasure in a good, old-fashioned, heart-warming story. A great book for adults to read along with young children, and for older children who are just starting to read alone. (Age 4 and over) -- Susan Harrison
Alison Uttley (17 December 1884 – 7 May 1976), née Alice Jane Taylor, was a prolific British writer of over 100 books. She is now best known for her children's series about Little Grey Rabbit, and Sam Pig.
What a lovely Christmas story, very reminiscent of The Wind in the Willows yet with it's own special flavour. Squirrel, Hare and Little Grey Rabbit all have distinctive memorable characters and I do love the name of Moldy Warp. And Uttley's descriptions are charming:
"The silver moon shone down on the white fields, making them glitter with a strange and beautiful light. The stars twinkled in the frosty air, and now and then a shooting star left a track of gold across the heavens."
I'm so grateful to have spent time with these little animals and their Christmastime in the woods!
As a child I was read Winnie the Pooh and Little Grey Rabbit - both of the 1930s and a world away. This was so sweet and gentle, unfathomable today for it’s lack of action I’d imagine. There is no heavy moralising but the character of little grey rabbit is so very kind and the fact that it ends with the most solitary creature giving a party or the unwanted rats giving delicately made thoughtful gifts says plenty. For my father the details around the seasons and country folklore was very evocative.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Written in a simpler time, this gentle tale of three friends who share a sled and a home is perfect for the winter season. The joys of fresh snow and playing together are celebrated. When Christmas comes there is a community party. Generosity and companionship are celebrated. Beautifully illustrated, the images would look amazing framed.
As a family tradition we read this every Christmas. Charming nostalgia from an author who lived this life and remembered these traditions. Beautiful illustrations.
I don’t think you can go wrong really with Christmas, I liked this book more than the others really. I’m still not overly keen on the illustrations there too soft, not sharp enough
A sweet little Christmas book, that adults will enjoy while reading to little ones. Alison Uttley always writes beautiful books about adorable little animals and this one didn’t disappoint.