In their latest delightful collaboration, Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen, a powerhouse duo in children’s literature, explore one of the season’s most whimsical questions in “How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney?” Already a New York Times bestseller, this picture book combines Barnett’s sharp, earnest humor with Klassen’s understated yet expressive illustrations to enchant both young readers and adults.

The story dives into the logistical puzzles surrounding Santa’s Christmas Eve journey—specifically, the various methods he might use to enter homes. Does Santa slide down the chimney feetfirst or headfirst? What if there’s no chimney at all? Barnett’s narrative proposes a series of inventive and amusing possibilities—ranging from Santa slimming down to slip under doors to the jolly old elf transforming himself to flow through faucets—each more fantastical than the last.

Klassen’s art is as compelling as ever, perfectly complementing Barnett’s text with a palette that evokes the quiet, mysterious ambiance of Christmas Eve. His characters, minimal yet remarkably expressive, add a layer of comedy without ever overshadowing the story. The interplay between text and illustration in this book is seamless, with Klassen’s visuals elevating the humor and whimsy of Barnett’s propositions.

As the narrative unfolds, the scenarios spiral into increasingly absurd and humorous vignettes, capturing the boundless imagination of a child. This escalation not only holds the attention of young readers but also invites them to contribute their own wild theories, making “How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney?” a participatory read.

This book follows the tradition of Barnett and Klassen’s previous successes, wherein their joint efforts have yielded stories that are sly, witty, and tuned in to the frequency of children’s unfiltered thoughts. Like their earlier works, this book is built on a foundation of mutual understanding and respect for children’s perspectives, making it a joy to read aloud and share.

“How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney?” is more than just a festive seasonal tale; it’s a tribute to the magic of childhood curiosity and the joy of finding answers in even the most outrageous questions. It stands to serve as a new holiday classic, one that families will likely return to year after and year. This delightful exploration of a Christmas mystery is highly recommended for holiday book collections and a must-have for fans of Barnett and Klassen’s unique synergy.