Dasher Can't Wait for Christmas | Picture Book

Matt Tavares’s sequel to the New York Times best-selling Dasher is a joyful ode to helping others—and another holiday classic in the making.

“If you ever get lost, just look for the North Star.”

With only one sleep left before Christmas Eve, Dasher can’t contain her excitement for her favorite holiday. With the sound of Christmas carols on the breeze and twinkling lights radiating from a nearby city, she sneaks off to visit the festivities. But as night deepens and snow starts to fall, Dasher realizes she can no longer spot the North Star in the sky to lead her home. Will the kindness of a child, an unexpected gift, and a dose of Christmas spirit get her back in time to help guide Santa’s sleigh? The New York Times best-selling creator of Dasher has crafted another delightful journey featuring everyone’s favorite reindeer doe, in a story full of giving, joy, and holiday magic.

★ "Tavares returns with another Christmas treat for readers. . . . This happy ending fits the book’s overall gentle, celebratory tone, which is enhanced by painterly digital illustrations in a realistic style that somehow feels simultaneously nostalgic and current. . . . Christmas-book lovers should dash to add this one to their shelves." —Kirkus Reviews

★ "This story is another adventure for Dasher, and it does not disappoint. . . . The illustrations may appear simple, but they are not to be underestimated. The reindeer look incredibly authentic. Dasher displays subtle expressions, from inquisitive, to exhausted, and then grateful as she leaves her helper. Children of all ages will enjoy this special story for years to come. . . . A must-have for the holidays." —School Library Journal

★ "In art that makes the most of landscapes, Taveres offers narrative tension (“Tonight is Christmas Eve! You’ve got to get home”), personal stakes (“She was exhausted. And hungry”), and all the picturesque snow that a holiday story requires." —Publishers Weekly

★ "Tavares’ witty stories, detailed research, and picture-perfect illustrations have long delighted children. This fall, he’s back with the sequel, 'Dasher Can’t Wait for Christmas.'. . . Published by local publisher Candlewick Press, it tells the story of the titular reindeer and how in her excitement she gets lost, and has to rely on the help of others to get back to Santa’s sleigh in time for Christmas. It’s a beautiful, joyful story." —Boston.com