PreS-Gr 3—With the Christmas season approaching, Jack is hoping for snow, but every time he looks out the window, he is disappointed. Arriving at school one day, Jack finds a new substitute teacher at the chalkboard. Mr. Clausen bears an uncanny resemblance to a certain jolly holiday figure. He has a white beard, is remarkably patient with children, has a big (even merry) laugh, and enjoys cookies and milk. Jack's classmates suspect that Mr. Clausen is Santa, but Jack is not convinced. After all, everyone likes cookies. When Mr. Clausen has the students write their wishes on paper snowflakes, Jack still wishes for snow. It is never confirmed whether Mr. Clausen is Santa. However, the journey to finding out is a lighthearted exercise in hope and belief in the impossible as Jack wakes up to snow on Christmas morning. The illustrations are bright. The colorful winter apparel, classroom decorated with red and green paper chains, and cozy sweaters will kindle the holiday spirit. After the story, helpful instructions (complete with diagrams) prompt readers to make their own paper snowflakes. VERDICT A cheerful diversion perfect for most picture book holiday collections.—Alyssa Annico, Youngstown State University, OH