Gross, Kelsey E. Winter: A Solstice Story. Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers. 978-1-665-90813-9. 32 p. $18.99. Grades K-3. 

An owl watches the sun set, signaling the end of daytime and the beginning of solstice, the longest night of the year. From atop a pine tree, the owl hoots to other woodland animals, asking how each might help shine the light and share a gift of hope to celebrate the special evening. Animals of all sizes emerge from their snowy thickets, dens, and burrows, each bringing a simple, yet thoughtful gift to decorate the pine tree. A deer hangs nuts from branches, a squirrel nestles leaves onto limbs, a mouse sprinkles seeds, a duck offers feathers, a rabbit tosses pieces of bark like confetti, a raccoon brings berries, and a chickadee wraps long grasses all around the tree. The animals celebrate the beautifully decorated tree by singing, frolicking, and twirling, but all the commotion wakes up a sleepy bear. The animals hold their breaths as the bear lumbers towards the tree, but the owl warmly welcomes the new friend to join the celebration and enjoy the gifts. Two oversized, fold-out pages depict the decorated pine tree in its full glory, beautifully capturing each animal’s joy and generosity.

THOUGHTS: Digital illustrations in a muted winter palette convey each animal’s gentle nature and the stillness of the snowy woodland setting. Young readers will pick up on the refrain as each animal repeats what it will contribute to shine the light during the solstice celebration. Share this title as part of a winter-themed story time or to supplement lessons centering on generosity, thoughtfulness, or kindness. 

Picture Book