All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth

Since 1944 children around the world have sung – and lisped – this classic Christmas song. This Christmas it has been brought to life in picture book format illustrated by Katz Cowley. The protagonist is a delightfully cheeky monkey called Danny who is, of course, missing his front teeth and is pictured envying those who DO have their front teeth, as well as imagining ways he can get some for himself…

All I want for Christmas
is my two front teeth,
My two front teeth,
See my two front teeth.

Since 1944 children around the world have sung – and lisped – this classic Christmas song. This Christmas it has been brought to life in picture book format illustrated by Katz Cowley. The protagonist is a delightfully cheeky monkey called Danny who is, of course, missing his front teeth and is pictured envying those who DO have their front teeth, as well as imagining ways he can get some for himself. The final illustration shows the new teeth just starting to peek through his guns.

The book is accompanied by a CD with performer Craig Smith (of Wonky Donkey fame) singing the song, as well as a second song “Toothless” and a Monkey version of the title song – that is, the tune is ‘sung’ with monkey noises, which adults may find slightly grating, but kids will love.

An excellent Christmas gift.

All I Want for Christmas

All I Want for Christmas, by Don Gardner, illustrated by Katz Cowley
Scholastic Australia, 2011
ISBN 9781741697841

This book can be purchased from good bookstores, or online from Fishpond. Buying through this link supports Aussiereviews.