Dylan Thomas’s rollicking, language-rich short story about Christmases in his childhood has been illustrated by artists for children before, most notably in a small, lovely gift edition featuring graceful woodcuts by Ellen Raskin (recently reissued by New Directions Publishing). Raskin’s art referenced both the whimsy and the intimacy of memory suggested by the text. The ink, torn paper and gouache illustrations that Chris Rasckha has created for this new edition is a perfect match for the measured frenzy of Thomas’s words. Bold, lush colors are tempered by heavy black lines and white splashes of snow suggesting energy and movement. Occasional images offer more muted background colors and delicate lines, providing a respite for both eye and mind in the midst of a dazzling verbal and visual experience. (Ages 8 – adult)