Publishers Weekly
In his fourth outing, Llama Llama learns what many children know: waiting for Christmas is tough. Shopping, making cookies, school activities, and unpacking Christmas tree lights proves "too much everything for Llama" and he has a "Holidrama" meltdown. Luckily, Mama is there to remind him: "Sometimes we should take a rest/ and hold the ones we love the best." Dewdney delivers a familiar holiday message with grace, as Mama and Llama Llama snuggle on a tranquil spread, next to their undecorated tree. Overwhelmed by holiday excitement and expectation, Llama Llama is as relatable as ever. Ages 3–5. (Oct.)
School Library Journal
PreS-K—The holidays are filled with fun and excitement and a lot of things to do and make, but poor Llama Llama has to wait. Patience not being his strong suit, and completely overwhelmed by all the holiday activities, he has a complete meltdown on Christmas Eve. Fortunately, Mama Llama is there to save the day with hugs and kisses and a little quiet time. Dewdney continues to display her very real understanding of preschooler mentality. This story is as familiar as a favorite ornament (and the cover glitters). Llama fans and newcomers alike will be charmed.—Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library
Kirkus Reviews
In this fourth session of "llama drama," the little llama boy finds that seemingly endless days of waiting for Christmas to arrive in addition to all the related hustle and bustle can be just a little much. Along with his patient mama, he participates in all the activities until he finally collapses in a Christmas-fueled meltdown, with huge letters spelling out "HOLIDRAMA!" Mama Llama soothes and explains in her gentle way, bringing some greater understanding to the situation before tucking her child into bed on Christmas Eve in the calm, satisfying conclusion. The short, four-line rhymes on each page serve as amusing exposition and effectively convey Llama Llama's growing frustration with the holiday season. The extra-large trim and cheerful illustrations make this a fine choice for reading aloud to a group. (Picture book. 2-5)
