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The Claris Collection #4
Claris: Holiday Heist: Claris #4
A sweet little mouse takes on a cheeky cat burglar with holiday cheer! Can Claris and Monsieur save the day – the New York way?
The fourth Claris book from acclaimed fashion illustrator Megan Hess.
The best-selling Claris series follows an adorable mouse who moves to Paris to follow her fashion dreams, for fans of Eloise and Olivia. Destined to delight fashion-obsessed readers of all ages!
A quarter of a million Claris books in print!
The fourth Claris book from acclaimed fashion illustrator Megan Hess.
The best-selling Claris series follows an adorable mouse who moves to Paris to follow her fashion dreams, for fans of Eloise and Olivia. Destined to delight fashion-obsessed readers of all ages!
A quarter of a million Claris books in print!
48 pages, Hardcover
Published October 6, 2020
1 person is currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
Megan Hess
127 books245 followersMegan Hess was destined to draw.
An initial career in graphic design evolved into art direction for some of the world’s leading design agencies. In 2008 Hess illustrated the New York Times number one selling book Sex And The City - written by Candace Bushnell. She has since illustrated portraits for Vanity Fair and Time, created iconic accessories for Henri Bendel and illustrated the windows of Bergdorf Goodman in New York.
Hess’s signature style can also be found on her bespoke range of silk scarves, cushions and Limited Edition prints sold around the globe.
She has written and illustrated 3 best selling books: Fashion House, The Dress and Coco Chanel.
Her renowned clients include: Prada, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Yves Saint Laurent, Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, Fendi, Ladurée, Givenchy, Wedgwood, Salvatore Ferragamo, Michelle Obama, Cartier, Laduree, Montblanc, Balenciaga, Guerlain, Paspaley, Tag Heuer, and Disney.
An initial career in graphic design evolved into art direction for some of the world’s leading design agencies. In 2008 Hess illustrated the New York Times number one selling book Sex And The City - written by Candace Bushnell. She has since illustrated portraits for Vanity Fair and Time, created iconic accessories for Henri Bendel and illustrated the windows of Bergdorf Goodman in New York.
Hess’s signature style can also be found on her bespoke range of silk scarves, cushions and Limited Edition prints sold around the globe.
She has written and illustrated 3 best selling books: Fashion House, The Dress and Coco Chanel.
Her renowned clients include: Prada, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Yves Saint Laurent, Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, Fendi, Ladurée, Givenchy, Wedgwood, Salvatore Ferragamo, Michelle Obama, Cartier, Laduree, Montblanc, Balenciaga, Guerlain, Paspaley, Tag Heuer, and Disney.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
February 5, 2025
Cartier!
September 9, 2020
Claris and her best friend, Monsieur Cat, are visiting New York for the holidays. They are Christmas shopping at Cartier when they witness a burglary, and set off across New York to catch the thief!
I loved the beautiful illustrations in this book! The colors are bright, and the lines are delicate. I love all the Christmasy decorations! Each scene is designed to give the story more depth. I did feel like some of the artwork is just cut and pasted from one page to the other with only a wardrobe change to make it different. I would have appreciated separate art for each page, instead of copies of the same facial expressions.
Sweet little Claris is adorable, and I love all her pretty clothes. She is the epitome of elegance and refinement, but with a heart of compassion and humility. She’s so cute! I love that she makes a point to give to those less fortunate and share her wealth with others. She might enjoy fancy clothes and elegant styles, but she also truly cares about others.
I liked how the story sets the scene of a fashionable holiday, but there is also some action and adventure. It kept my interest and made me laugh! The text is in rhyme, and it works pretty well. The rhymes aren’t always the best, but they are fine. The rhythm of each line doesn’t always exactly match, but it was okay. It’s not Milton or Shakespeare, but it does a good job of telling the story. (I have a pet peeve with children’s books being written in bad poetry, so I’m overly critical of this aspect of the writing. Other people would probably not notice it at all.)
This book is so adorable! I can’t wait to read more Claris books!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts and are not influenced by anyone.
I loved the beautiful illustrations in this book! The colors are bright, and the lines are delicate. I love all the Christmasy decorations! Each scene is designed to give the story more depth. I did feel like some of the artwork is just cut and pasted from one page to the other with only a wardrobe change to make it different. I would have appreciated separate art for each page, instead of copies of the same facial expressions.
Sweet little Claris is adorable, and I love all her pretty clothes. She is the epitome of elegance and refinement, but with a heart of compassion and humility. She’s so cute! I love that she makes a point to give to those less fortunate and share her wealth with others. She might enjoy fancy clothes and elegant styles, but she also truly cares about others.
I liked how the story sets the scene of a fashionable holiday, but there is also some action and adventure. It kept my interest and made me laugh! The text is in rhyme, and it works pretty well. The rhymes aren’t always the best, but they are fine. The rhythm of each line doesn’t always exactly match, but it was okay. It’s not Milton or Shakespeare, but it does a good job of telling the story. (I have a pet peeve with children’s books being written in bad poetry, so I’m overly critical of this aspect of the writing. Other people would probably not notice it at all.)
This book is so adorable! I can’t wait to read more Claris books!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts and are not influenced by anyone.
December 4, 2020
This book was super cute. This story is an adventure holiday tale. You get to see what happens when the true meaning of the holiday season changes somebody for the better through a grand excursion through the city. You will love to read this sing-song rhyming story and it will fill your heart with holiday cheer!
November 6, 2020
As the title of this series says, Claris is the “chicest mouse in Paris”. But, in this book, the fourth in the series, she is in New York City for the holidays. She is with her friend, Monsieur the cat, and her whole family, including the daughter whom she calls, “Brat”.
Brat is upset that she doesn’t have enough gifts so they head out for the day to shop along Fifth Avenue. Claris is delightfully excited and tries on a number of dresses and outfits perfect for a couture fashion show. As they were leaving the hotel, Claris notices some fellow mice shivering outside in the cold and wind, which made her sad.
While shopping at New York’s Cartier, Monsieur and Claris spot a crime and can’t let the thief get away with the stash. A chase ensues and Claris and Monsieur barely make it back to Cartier in time to join the family leaving for the hotel.
There is a lovely surprise at the end of the adventure and another moment of sweetness to close out the story perfect for the holiday season. Claris shares an important message of kindness and sharing with others as well as not being greedy. Claris is spunky and generous and kids will like her spirit as well as her fashion sense. I didn’t care for her use of the word “Brat” even if the young girl was acting like one.
The illustrations are quite beautiful and make me want to visit New York City during the holidays. I could dream of shopping on Fifth Avenue and live vicariously through Claris.
Children who love dressing up, have a spunky character, or love Christmas stories will enjoy the adventures of Claris and Monsieur in New York City.
Brat is upset that she doesn’t have enough gifts so they head out for the day to shop along Fifth Avenue. Claris is delightfully excited and tries on a number of dresses and outfits perfect for a couture fashion show. As they were leaving the hotel, Claris notices some fellow mice shivering outside in the cold and wind, which made her sad.
While shopping at New York’s Cartier, Monsieur and Claris spot a crime and can’t let the thief get away with the stash. A chase ensues and Claris and Monsieur barely make it back to Cartier in time to join the family leaving for the hotel.
There is a lovely surprise at the end of the adventure and another moment of sweetness to close out the story perfect for the holiday season. Claris shares an important message of kindness and sharing with others as well as not being greedy. Claris is spunky and generous and kids will like her spirit as well as her fashion sense. I didn’t care for her use of the word “Brat” even if the young girl was acting like one.
The illustrations are quite beautiful and make me want to visit New York City during the holidays. I could dream of shopping on Fifth Avenue and live vicariously through Claris.
Children who love dressing up, have a spunky character, or love Christmas stories will enjoy the adventures of Claris and Monsieur in New York City.
November 3, 2020
When I saw the cover of this picture book I absolutely feel in love with the beautiful illustration and delightful, fashionable mouse, Clarise.
And, oh my, that was just the beginning. Every single page is packed with adorable, wildly extravagant scenes from New York and the fashionable stores, streets, decorations, buildings, and especially people.
Do folks roam the streets of New York dressed like this in today's world? Probably not. But it makes for fun reading, glamerous characters (and yes, young readers and listeners can enjoy pretty, fashionable attire), and the hustle and bustle and the extravagant Christmas decorations that make New York such a dream place.
But the story is the essence of the book and youngsters can learn a lot from the characters' strengths and flaws. The action is great as a "mystery" or "action" story for youngsters with Clarise and her trusty side-kick Monsieur coming to the rescue.
Special in this series is that Megan Hess, acclaimed fashion illustrator for major fashion houses, is both author and illustrator. And she has written a rhyming story that is attention grabbing and packed the pages with brilliant and beautiful illustrations.
I hate that I've missed her previous "Claris" books. I highly recommend this enjoyable book and think it would be so nice to give a child before Christmas.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
And, oh my, that was just the beginning. Every single page is packed with adorable, wildly extravagant scenes from New York and the fashionable stores, streets, decorations, buildings, and especially people.
Do folks roam the streets of New York dressed like this in today's world? Probably not. But it makes for fun reading, glamerous characters (and yes, young readers and listeners can enjoy pretty, fashionable attire), and the hustle and bustle and the extravagant Christmas decorations that make New York such a dream place.
But the story is the essence of the book and youngsters can learn a lot from the characters' strengths and flaws. The action is great as a "mystery" or "action" story for youngsters with Clarise and her trusty side-kick Monsieur coming to the rescue.
Special in this series is that Megan Hess, acclaimed fashion illustrator for major fashion houses, is both author and illustrator. And she has written a rhyming story that is attention grabbing and packed the pages with brilliant and beautiful illustrations.
I hate that I've missed her previous "Claris" books. I highly recommend this enjoyable book and think it would be so nice to give a child before Christmas.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
March 8, 2021
We received a copy of this gorgeous picture book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Claris, the 'Chicest Mouse in Paris' is visiting New York City with her owners and their pet cat, Monsieur, for Christmas when they spot a holiday heist at the jewelry store! Claris and Monsieur are determined to stop the thief and ensure that everyone has a fantastic holiday, all while looking fabulous!
The fourth book in the Claris: The Chicest Mouse in Paris series from acclaimed fashion illustrator, Megan Hess, is a beautiful picture book with a gorgeous, shiny cover and is filled with popular fashion brands and gorgeous dresses, winter coats, and more for those that love all things fancy!
This book is especially perfect for the holiday season but this series is absolutely perfect for any fashion-loving Little!
My daughter loves to draw fashion and thought this was incredibly inspirational. She was astonished and 'tickled pink' to find out that the author is a fashion designer!
This picture book review was originally shared at Lazy Day Literature and @lazydaykidlit.
Claris, the 'Chicest Mouse in Paris' is visiting New York City with her owners and their pet cat, Monsieur, for Christmas when they spot a holiday heist at the jewelry store! Claris and Monsieur are determined to stop the thief and ensure that everyone has a fantastic holiday, all while looking fabulous!
The fourth book in the Claris: The Chicest Mouse in Paris series from acclaimed fashion illustrator, Megan Hess, is a beautiful picture book with a gorgeous, shiny cover and is filled with popular fashion brands and gorgeous dresses, winter coats, and more for those that love all things fancy!
This book is especially perfect for the holiday season but this series is absolutely perfect for any fashion-loving Little!
My daughter loves to draw fashion and thought this was incredibly inspirational. She was astonished and 'tickled pink' to find out that the author is a fashion designer!
This picture book review was originally shared at Lazy Day Literature and @lazydaykidlit.
March 30, 2025
I bought this book for my daughter for Christmas. But this is certainly one of those fashion loving mom guilty pleasures as well because the drawing is so AMAZING. Megan is truly talented.
And the story itself is so uplifting and inspiring, teaching your kids such great life lessons about honesty, and sharing and caring.
These Claris books have become one of the reasons I look forward to our evening book reading time, when I hope my daughter will chose me as her reader not her dad, so that I can suggest one of Megan's books.
I can't say this enough. I LOVE THESE BOOKS!
And the story itself is so uplifting and inspiring, teaching your kids such great life lessons about honesty, and sharing and caring.
These Claris books have become one of the reasons I look forward to our evening book reading time, when I hope my daughter will chose me as her reader not her dad, so that I can suggest one of Megan's books.
I can't say this enough. I LOVE THESE BOOKS!
September 20, 2020
Holiday Heist is the fourth book by fashion illustrator Megan Hess who has worked with Chanel, Dior, Cartier, Prada and more. This glamour filled story revolves around a little mouse and her friend a cat.
In this delightful holiday filled story we find Claris and her faithful friend Monsieur on a shopping spree in New York city. The Fifth Avenue stores are a place they visit often. Their adventure takes them on a mission to help mice shivering on the street, recover a timeless jewel and to change a notorious theif into a giving one.
Just in time for the upcoming holidays, this story is filled with holiday cheer and giving back. Colorfully illustrated in what we would expect from a clothes designer, these illustrations show sketches with black and white lines and pops of color. Easy to read sentences with plenty of bouncing rhyme make this a fun read for beginners.
In this delightful holiday filled story we find Claris and her faithful friend Monsieur on a shopping spree in New York city. The Fifth Avenue stores are a place they visit often. Their adventure takes them on a mission to help mice shivering on the street, recover a timeless jewel and to change a notorious theif into a giving one.
Just in time for the upcoming holidays, this story is filled with holiday cheer and giving back. Colorfully illustrated in what we would expect from a clothes designer, these illustrations show sketches with black and white lines and pops of color. Easy to read sentences with plenty of bouncing rhyme make this a fun read for beginners.
December 7, 2024
Okay, hear me out. I thought this book was both cute and in possession of beautiful illustrations. To quote Claris: "Tres chic". However, I found the story disjointed and that it crammed a lot of things into one book, and maybe did not hit all the points as well as it could have. I also held this one back from my niece because she does not know where New York is, let alone anything about it and I don't think it will hold her attention.
I do give snaps that Claris spreads holiday joy, sharing with the poor and teaching a thief the true meaning of Christmas. But honestly, I'm a bit confused about this one myself. The illustrations are the main draw here.
I do give snaps that Claris spreads holiday joy, sharing with the poor and teaching a thief the true meaning of Christmas. But honestly, I'm a bit confused about this one myself. The illustrations are the main draw here.
July 19, 2025
Let me just share some themes: fashion powerhouses, wealth, privilege, consumerism. You’re not gonna get any deep significance from this tale. The spoilt girl is named Brat and left at that. The mouse Claris, who has residences in major cities and wears Valentino and Chanel is described at the end as “not having much”. The rhyming is poor.
However the art is appealing (although you’re not gonna find any diversity of body size here). And that snares young readers who become fans.
However the art is appealing (although you’re not gonna find any diversity of body size here). And that snares young readers who become fans.
September 8, 2020
Thank you to the publisher for a copy in exchange for a review.
What a fun holiday book! I will definitely be reading more of Claris’ books. I really enjoyed the fashion and the pop of colors. The “heist” and the message learned in this story is also really great and important. Kids will love this book.
What a fun holiday book! I will definitely be reading more of Claris’ books. I really enjoyed the fashion and the pop of colors. The “heist” and the message learned in this story is also really great and important. Kids will love this book.
December 3, 2020
Lots of gold embellishment on the cover and gilt-edged pages make this book seem very plush and luxurious.
For the full review: https://twobookwormsblog.wordpress.co...
For the full review: https://twobookwormsblog.wordpress.co...
December 29, 2023
Definitely the chicest mouse I’ve ever seen! Lol
Want to Read
July 15, 2025SM
December 18, 2021
I love Megan Hess' illustrations, probably my favourite. I love all the attention to details in the illustrations on every page. The story is cute and reminds you the real meaning of Christmas. The colouring and all the illustrations for the designer luxury brands are stunning. The book itself is beautiful with the gold foiling on the cover, the back of the book and the page edges.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews