An adaptation of the classic Christmas tale for young children, complete with beautiful illustrations!u003cbru003eu003cbru003eOn Christmas Eve, Clara and Fritz are waiting patiently for the party to start and for their godfather, Drosselmeyer, to bring them presents. When he finally arrives, he brings many wonderful toys, but Clara is taken by a rather simple nutcracker. Her brother promptly steals and breaks it, but Drosselmeyer repairs it for her. After everyone else goes to sleep, she goes to say goodnight to the Christmas tree and nutcracker, when something strange happens. The tree and the entire room seem to grow around her, and huge, squeaking mice invade the room. . . . But her nutcracker springs to life to defend her! Clara and the nutcracker defeat the Mouse King, and the nutcracker turns into a human. They meet the Sugarplum Fairy and are entertained by dancers from all around the world before Clara wakes up. Was it all a dream?u003cbru003eu003cbru003eThis beautifully adapted classic tale with striking illustrations is the perfect Christmas book to share with kids!u003cbru003eu003cbru003eSample text:u003cbru003eu003cbru003e Waiting behind closed doors was difficult for Clara and Fritz. But it was especially difficult on Christmas Eve!u003cbru003e The children struggled to avoid wrinkling and spotting their new clothes. Clara was able to meet the challenge, but Fritz found it unbearable.u003cbru003e Clara and her brother tried to busy themselves with their favorite books, but the activity behind the doors drew all their attention. Neither Robin Hoods nor Alices adventures could pull them away. u003cbru003e Only the loudest sounds came through the solidly built walls and door. I bet thats one of your presents, said the mischief-making Fritz at the sound of a sudden crash. Its probably broken.u003cbru003e Seven-year-old Clara, though, was used to her brothers taunts and was not concerned. Especially since she was absorbed by imaginings of her own. Behind the doors, she envisioned a tree with toys and edible treats, and beneath the tree, a large box containing a new doll, curly-haired, in a dress with a big sash and pantaloons with many layers. Oh, how lovely she would be! Theyd go on excursions and be constant companionsthe very best of friends.
