Synopsis: The smallest reindeer is exploring Santa's workshop when he accidentally falls into the giftwrapping machine, and finds himself being delivered as a present! The little boy who receives him is overjoyed and cares for him with devotion. One day, he discovers that his reindeer is special - he can fly! When Christmas comes round again, the little reindeer disappears, but in his bed of straw the boy finds a thank you note...from Santa Claus.
Review: This is another beautiful and haunting story from Michael Foreman. It begins with familiar ‘storybook’ scenes of Santa’s homeland and his preparations for Christmas, but the book is more than this. Foreman takes us on an extraordinary imaginary journey to a world which is real but not real: the rooftop world of an American City. The vibrant colours of the modern busy streets contrast sharply with the blue and white rooftop setting. This adds to the strong sense of the special and secret relationship between the boy and the reindeer. The boy’s acceptance of the reindeer, his understanding of the inevitable end of their daily relationship and his ability to adapt to that change makes a poignant but positive ending to the story. This is a book which needs time for reflection for children to be able to explore the profound ideas about Christmas, love and giving which are essential to this tale.