Retold for young children with enchanting illustrations, this is the perfect introduction to everyone's favourite Christmas ballet story. Christmas Eve is the most magical night of the year, when the house is scented with wood smoke and spices, and there are secrets under every bed . . . When the clock strikes midnight, Clara's new Nutcracker doll comes to life and leads her on a thrilling adventure. Battling with the wicked Mouse King and his troops, then journeying to the Kingdom of Sweets with the Sugar Plum Fairy. With beautiful illustrations from award-winning artist, Jane Ray, this magical picture book captures all the joy and excitement of Christmas.

Author Biography

Jane Ray's exquisite artwork has gained acclaim both in the UK and internationally, and she regularly shows her work at galleries and exhibitions. Jane won the Smarties Prize with The Story of Creation; The Story of Christmas was shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Award; and A Balloon for Grandad was shortlisted for the Mother Goose Award. Jane's books for Orchard include the contemporary fairy tale The Apple-Pip Princess, the heartwarming The Dolls' House Fairy and the fabulously festive The Twelve Days of Christmas. She is also the illustrator of Heartsong, written by Kevin Crossley-Holland. Jane lives in London.