In this charming barnyard tale, Ernest, a tiny, loveable donkey, and his farmyard friends demonstrate the power of love and selflessness—the true gifts of the holiday season. When Ernest discovers his friend Chester is missing on Christmas Eve, he must enlist his friends, large and small, to work together in order to rescue their friend. Through love and determination, Ernest and his friends discover that being together with loved ones is the most special Christmas gift of all. Beautiful watercolor illustrations of the animals at Barnesyard farm are sure to enthrall young readers and parents alike, and hiding in each picture is an adorable little mouse for kids to discover. Parents and teachers can use this tale as a way to discuss the true meaning of the holiday season. PreSchool-Grade 2-This fourth title in the series finds the miniature donkey and his friend, Chester, a huge, retired draft horse, excited about Christmas. When it begins to snow, Ernest returns to the barn, only to realize that Chester is missing. Despite heavy snowfall, he searches for his friend, who has fallen in the snow and cannot rise. He summons many animals, large and small, all of whom work together to help get Chester on his feet. Naturalistic but slightly sentimental watercolor illustrations reinforce the text. The message-that Christmas is a time of giving, and that love and determination bring results-is pounded home abruptly, and readers may wonder if the ailing Chester will really make it back to the barn.-S. P. Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc. "An engaging tale of spirit and compassion." -- Midwest Book Review "Barnes brings back her beloved Ernest in this Christmas story about the power of love and the importance of togetherness." -- The Times , New Jersey "Read of Ernest's determination...a beautiful ending makes this a Christmas treasure for young and old." -- The Fairfax Chief "This heartwarming installment...will delight young and old alike...the importance of friendship, loyalty and love is highlighted." -- The Canadian Horse Journal "[A] story that children will love and...ask to read again and again." -- The Star , Illinois Laura T. Barnes is the author of the Ernest series, which was inspired by the adopted animals she owns at Barnesyard Farm. She lives in Sergeantsville, New Jersey. Carol A. Camburn is the illustrator of One Dollar and The Beast Who Couldn't Say Boo . She lives in Quakertown, Pennsylvania.