No Peeking at Presents

It's Christmas Eve and three siblings can't be more excited, but there's one rule that everyone must follow. No peeking at the Christmas presents! In the middle of the night, odd squeaking sounds wake the two younger children up. They jump out of bed to see what's the source of the noise, but the older one hops into their way before they make it down the stairs. He reminds them that peeking at Christmas presents isn't allowed. They have to wait until the parents wake up to open anything, so they go back to bed. When they're awoken again, they try the same thing, only to be stopped by the older brother a second time. He sends them off to bed and tries to go to sleep himself until he hears the same squeaks. Deciding to investigate, he's surprised to find his present staring back at him.

NO PEEKING AT PRESENTS is a silly story that children will enjoy reading during the holiday season. It'll only add to their excitement about the impending presents they'll open. I love the typical sibling banter that just shows how much they care about each other. The illustrations are so bright with Christmas cheer that it will make the perfect Christmas Eve read. The author/illustrator also incorporates a mixed family which is a nice touch I wish we saw more of.


Final Verdict: Overall, this is a silly and cheerful story that highlights sibling affection and the excitement that builds up from the holiday season. I would recommend this as a family read for those who celebrate Christmas and want to be left with a smile on their face.

NO PEEKING AT PRESENTS is a cute holiday picture book about patience and family. It's Christmas Eve and 3 siblings are settling down to sleep. The oldest one reminds the two younger siblings that there is no peeking at presents before their parents wake up. However, at 3 am, they awake to hear a squeaking sound and head downstairs to investigate - only for the older sibling to remind them not to peek and bring them back to bed. As the night continues, they are repeatedly awoken by the squeaking sound and headed off - until the older sibling hears it and goes to investigate. They remind him of the no peeking rule, but it turns out that the present was peeking at them first - a puppy!

What I loved: This is a cute story that captures the fun of siblinghood and the excitement of Christmas morning. The book is told through the dialogue of the siblings, which adds to the fun of their confusion and persistence. Each page features plenty of details and color, and it really brings the sound of the squeaking alive through the use of word art. The final resolution is endearing and plenty of fun with the unexpected gift they all find.

The font is large, clear, and easy to read. It works best if caregivers use voices to distinguish the siblings when reading, as there are no additional context words included. The brightly colored images and Christmas themes are present throughout, really capturing all the excitement of the holiday on each page.

Final verdict: NO PEEKING AT PRESENTS is a sweet picture book about Christmas, excitement, and siblinghood that ends up being a silly and charming read.