To begin, although this is categorized as a Children’s Fiction / Middle Grade read, this isn’t really a story aimed at children, or rather it is, but I question if this would appeal to Middle Grade readers.

This begins with the story of a toy maker, Mr. Stern, who is introduced to two boys, Ben and John, who were twelve, residing in the <i>’Hanover Home for Boys</i>. Despite their relatively young age, these two boys have a talent for doing wood carvings, and he tells Father Sullivan he wishes to adopt them, letting him know that he plans to teach them a trade. As a toy maker, he hopes to help them better their craft. Not only does he help them, but they exceed his expectations.

Years later, after the passing of both Ben and Mr. Stern, John wakes up to see Ben sitting in a chair telling John he’s come to visit him to share an important message of a mission he’s been chosen for. He has been chosen to be the first Santa.

This story of <i>’the beginning’</i> of Santa Claus also includes the ‘introduction’ of Mrs. Claus as the story continues and has some charming moments, and several lovely illustrations that would appeal to young children.

Pub Date: 07 Nov 2023


Many thanks for the ARC provided by Atmosphere Press

A brilliant Christmas book early, loved the writing style and kept me entertained throughout, very good

Thank you net galley for this Arc copy for me to read. The cover of the book is absolutely beautiful and stunning and the cover is what draw me to this book. I really enjoyed this story about how Santa became about and the story kept me hocked from the very beginning to the end it’s told so well and told so meaningful any one who reads this book will fall in love with Christmas. The illustrations in this book I really like them all and they are done so beautifully and they really make the book as they fitted into the story at the right moment. This is such a magical and wonderful book. Xxx

I think this was a wonderful book!
I love Christmas books and this is a great twist of how Christmas originated. I especially enjoyed the mix of traditional Christmas stories, like Rudolph with this new creative story!

This story is about how Santa Claus came about. We start by meeting Benjamin and John two young boys that are being taught how to make toys and about the toy shop business. I also liked that the author did include Mrs Claus and the reindeers in this story
I enjoyed the story and I think kids around 9-12 will enjoy reading it.
This would make a great story to read to your children before Christmas to help everyone get in the holiday spirit. Thank you netgalley