Booktalking "Dear Santa, Please Come to the 19th Floor" by Yin

Carlos is wheelchair-bound due to an accident that damaged his spinal cord. He is depressed due to the injury and the dramatic change in lifestyle, but luckily his best friend Willy lives in the building. He often comes to visit since his mother works a lot, so much so that he considers Mrs. G to be something like an aunt to him. Christmas is approaching fast, and Santa never seems to make it to the top floor.

Willy and Carlos' sister conspire to write an email to santaclaus@northpole.com in order to persuade Santa to visit them on the 19th floor. Shortly thereafter, Willy spies reindeer on the street in front of the building, and he rushes downstairs to meet Santa. Unfortunately, they are required to climb the stairs since neither elevator is in operation. Always prepared, Santa has sneakers to change into. They meet several tenants and building maintenance workers on the way up. Santa is struggling to make the climb. Luckily, Jose and Willy pitch in and help.

Dear Santa, Please Come to the 19th Floor by Yin, 2002

I love the florescent Christmas colors of the vibrant illustrations.