The Fox's Tale by Nick Butterworth and Mick Inkpen (Lion Hudson Children's Books)

Lion Hudson publish some of the best nativity books for a children's christmas stocking but we think this is the best of the lot. A rather unique look at the nativity story, from the perspective of a rather sly and inquisitive fox who discovers that there's far more to the world when out hunting one night.

He spies a speckled lamb lying in a field, bleating plaintively for its mother but before he can steal it away, the field is filled with light, and the mysterious presence of 'men with no scent' - Angels, who come down to tell a tale of a new born king to the shepherds as they tend their flocks.

The fox wants to see this new born king for himself, so begins a journey that pads velvety-footed through the Nativity story until we meet Baby Jesus himself.

Nick Butterworth and Mick Inkpen's warm and novel take on the nativity is marvellous for children of all ages, and though at first the fox seems a bit of a bad egg, we warm to him in the end as the story unfolds.

The greatest story ever told, given a rather neat makeover. Brilliant stuff!

Charlotte's best bit: Seeing the baby speckled lamb with Baby Jesus. Awww!

Daddy's favourite bit: We've seen so many nativity stories, but this one really is truly special, even if you're not particularly religious or filled with the true spirit of what Christmas is about.

(Kindly sent to us for review by Lion Hudson and the fantastic Harriet, Leo and Polly!)