YARMOUTH — The long unavailable children's book "My Wonderful Christmas Tree" by legendary Maine artist Dahlov Ipcar will return to store shelves just in time for the holiday season.

Maine-based Islandport Press will officially release a special, redesigned hardcover edition of Ipcar's inspired holiday classic on Nov. 28. The book depicts, with signature Ipcar style, the colorful and curious creatures that live in the New England forest at Christmastime. From the one shining star that graces the top of the living outdoor Christmas tree to the black bears, snowy owls, happy chipmunks and other woodland inhabitants that visit the tree, the book is a delightful celebration of nature and the holiday season.

Earlier this year, Islandport also reissued "The Little Fisherman," which was the first children's book illustrated by Ipcar in 1941.

"My Wonderful Christmas Tree" originally published in 1986, represents the last children's book illustrated by Ipcar. Ipcar, 91, who has illustrated more than 30 other children's books, continues to work every day in her studio looking out over her farm on Georgetown Island. Her intricate, distinctive and fanciful artwork is known worldwide, with pieces of her art in the permanent collections of numerous renowned museums.

For more information about Islandport Press, call 207-846-3344 or visit www.islandportpress.com.