Santa Never Brings Me a Banjo

Based on the song by Halifax musician David Myles, Santa Never Brings Me a Banjo is an appealing and relatable story about a young boy who wants nothing more than a banjo for Christmas but who is repeatedly disappointed. He claims to be a well-behaved boy, especially in school, and he is left puzzled as to why Santa never delivers. He ultimately decides to take matters into his own hands and save for a banjo himself.

This is a catchy and spirited song that has translated well to the page. The danger in these types of books is that the text will sound awkward, but that is certainly not the case here. The meter and rhythm would be well-suited to an expressive reading at a library story time, for example. If so inclined, the reader or librarian may play the song on an instrument as the sheet music is included in the final pages.

The real standout here, though, is the illustrative work by artist Murray Bain. The reader should spend time looking carefully at the humourous sketches scattered throughout. It is also refreshing to find Canadian-specific references within the pictures, such as a letter to Santa with a Canadian address and Canadian money, such as the Toonie, illustrated. Santa Never Brings Me a Banjo is a great addition to any children’s Christmas collection.