Right, time to get started on the Christmas books, because there's no nicer present than books at Christmas (except for chocolate.) Dear Father Christmas by Alan Durant and Vanessa Cabban is one of those books that's a story and a surprise all in one.

It's packed with real letters and gifts from Father Christmas and there's a mini-Advent calendar, a tree decoration and a magic moving picture as well. And, if you've ever wondered how Santa manages to get all the way round the world in just one night, or how reindeer fly when they don't have any wings, this is the book for you because all the answers are right here. The illustrations are gorgeous, really bright and magical. Published by Walker Books at £9.99.

My second book this week also contains real little letters to take out and read; Dear Greepeace by Simon James. One day Emily spots a whale living in her garden pond and so decides to write to the environmental agency Greenpeace, for some advice on how she should care for him.

Greenpeace replies to re-assure her that she was quite possibly mistaken whales only live in salt water! Emily though, knows what she has seen and so continues the correspondence between the two. This is one of the loveliest books I have seen for quite some time.

A beautiful story and beautiful illustrations to match Smashing! Dear Greenpeace is published by Walker Books at £7.99 and would make a great gift for absolutely anyone! Just before I go, I have a book review for you, by Natasha, age ten, of Leyton. She has chosen to review Princess Academy by Shannon Hale.

I have just finished this book and I wanted it to go on and on because it was so good I felt like I was really in the story too.

It is all about a girl called Miri who lives in a poor village. One day some people arrive with an exciting message. They say that one girl in the village is going to be the new princess. Miri has to leave the village and live in a special academy with all the other 12-year-old girls, to learn how to become a princess. The story is so exciting; I couldn't put the book down. I think this book should get ten out of ten for being the best book I have ever read.' Wow, what a fantastic review of what sounds like a great book. A big thank you to Natasha. Have a great week.

Karen Hart