Gr 1–3—Barrett explains Santa's origins in the form of a personal memoir, complete with appealing scrapbook-style "photo" layouts. It's no surprise that Santa was jolly from birth, always loved cookies, and uttered "ho, ho, ho" as his first words. But who knew that his dad made toys in a basement workshop and that the annual toy distribution was a way to declutter the house? Actually, Santa's life was more normal than one might guess. He played baseball, joined a rock band, held various part-time jobs, learned to drive, and even attended the high school prom. It was in college, where he met the future Mrs. Claus, as well as his future employees, the elves, that his career destiny solidified. His thriving enterprise continues to this day, and, though he's a bit older and rounder, he keeps up with the trends. Kids needn't fear any missed deliveries because Santa's sleigh is now jet-propelled and equipped with a GPS! Clever and original, the story is made even more appealing by the dynamic acrylic paintings. Hawkes is a master of at rendering expressive faces and humorous details. A surefire hit for holiday storytimes.—Linda Israelson, Los Angeles Public Library