RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER SHINES AGAIN.

By Robert L. May '26.New York: Maxton Publishers, 1954. $0.59.

Rudolph's red nose became, sadly, just another ordinary reindeer proboscis. Originally the shiny object of scorn, that famous nose and its possessor earned renown as the leading light of Santa's sleigh on Christmas Eve. Everybody was happy with his popularity except Rudolph's reindeer friends. Jealously, "they gave him the messiest glueing to do" in making toys, "and when football was played they made Rudolph the ball!"

Under these provocations Rudolph's spirit, and his glowing nose, gradually faded as you will learn next month when you read Rudolph Shines Again to your children or grandchildren. Those without such younger generations at hand will learn these things as a captive audience in One way or another. So it is best now to reassure everyone that everything comes out all right, virtue is rewarded (in a conflict with wild wolves and fierce foxes), fears of inferiority are overcome, Rudolph scores a touchdown unassisted and kicks the extra point, fellow reindeer again acclaim their hero, and St. Nicholas brings off Christmas - but he couldn't do it without the help of his "little guy."

Mr. Bob May '26 of Chicago has written a delightful verse sequel to his fabulously successful Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. Striking illustrations by Marion Guild, and handsome lithography, make this a sure fire success.

The author created Rudolph in 1939. He is now fully occupied managing the multitude of saleable items that developed as the story's circulation mounted into the millions. Psychologists say this is no Donald Duck affair. The inferiority of Rudolph, and his ugly shiny nose, get right at the frustrations of children (and others) who love to see an underdog emerge from his trials in a blaze of glory. Authorities say Rudolph is permanently Christmas. Being a friend of the author, we hope so.