Rory the little dinosaur, whose story began in Rory the Dinosaur: Me and My Dad, and continued in Rory the Dinosaur Wants a Pet, returns in this third picture-book devoted to his continuing adventures. As he and his dad prepare for Christmas, our prehistoric hero realizes that what he really needs is a tree under which he can put presents. But does his island home have the right kind of arboreal decoration, and does it make a difference to the holiday if it doesn't...?

As with its predecessors, Rory the Dinosaur Needs a Christmas Tree features an engaging tale of a young dinosaur and his loving relationship with his father. I appreciated the conclusion of the story, which emphasizes that it isn't the tree - or any other physical trapping - that makes Christmas the holiday it is. As a consequence, when Rory's wish for a tree is granted, but in a most unusual way, it is apparent that the true gift is his father's love for him. The artwork is bright and colorful, with a simple, cartoon-style that suits the story. Recommended to all fans of Rory's ongoing adventures, and to anyone looking for picture-books about the father-son bond and/or the true Christmas spirit. ( )