Book Reviews
Reader feedback on the 12 New Christmas Stories
What is your idea of a good Christmas story? You are probably not imagining a tale of a young boy and his dog trudging across the llano, the high desert of New Mexico, and encountering a mountain lion who runs off with the planned Christmas dinner chicken – not even if the boy in question turns out to be named Jesus and the dog Donkey.
However, that is the setup for the first story of twelve in this enjoyable collection of Christmas tales. That yarn, penned by Lee Allen Hill, is filled with humour, pathos and a trademark wit as well as the requisite Christmas spirit. It is a fine introduction to this small anthology. Hill’s three stories provide the bedrock for the collection and they are well-supported by four other accomplished writers who provide a blend of fiction and non-fiction all involving the magic of Christmas.
Amongst other stories we have a touching tale from Ann Mullen-Martin on the late-in-life joy that an unexpected addition to the family can bring, an amusing tale from author Terry Broxon’s cat spilling the beans on an ancient Arapaho tradition of decorating a holly tree at Christmastime as well as a plea from Jay Squires to ‘Bring Back the Carolers’ plus a couple of true yarns from Diane Kenel-Truelove bringing back memories of the hazards and rewards of Christmas shopping.
The varied collection is rounded off in fine style with another hilarious but touching story from Lee Allen Hill – another young boy using spirit and initiative to solve the Christmas dinner dilemma. No mountain lions this time, just a pair of contrasting babysitters, a helpful Chinese eatery called Chan’s Palace and a hardworking firefighter mother.
This book meets all my criteria for a must-read – it made me laugh, it made me cry and it made me think. I would recommend it to anyone.
Steve Herbert
Author of Life, Love and Other Disasters, and Forty-Four Fabulous Funnies
It’s always been a pleasure to read and review this talented group of writers I met on an internet writer’s forum.
Over the years, they have manipulated and twisted my mind and emotions like Silly Putty, for those who can remember the goo.
But never more so than in this enjoyable “12 New Christmas Stories, An Anthology.” A book for all of us children at heart, no matter our age.
Ric Castellano
Author of short stories and movie scripts
What an enjoyable read! Five writers have invited us to gaze through their Christmas prisms with an eclectic mix of fiction and nonfiction stories. This is a comforting book, perfect for taking a break from the often joyful but always chaotic holiday season. Break out the cocoa and relax while enjoying each story ~ ranging from warm and poignant to witty and light. Each endearing theme and character come to life through the distinguished voices of each author; yet blend as harmoniously as Carolers on Christmas Eve.
In twelve stories ranging from four to thirteen pages long, you will:
~~ Meet a young boy and his dog named “Donkey” on a quest to create a memorable holiday for his mother with less than eight dollars, but beware of the mountain lion!
~~ Consider the capacity of the human heart as a 67-year-old widow becomes a foster parent to a little Christmas angel named Sarah, abandoned in an alley.
~~ Smile at the whimsy of a talking cat who shares the story of a Native American tribe who came to “Honor the birth of the Creator’s son” ~ complete with a fur trader named Kit, who falls in love with “Singing Grass” ~ which brings two cultures together in joy.
~~ Learn of one family’s tradition of “Santa’s Christmas Box” ~ and how one child’s life is transformed by “…a gift that, if treated with care, lasts forever.”
~~ Laugh aloud at the hijinks of a self-described shopaholic as her shopping spree takes as many twists and turns as knotted Christmas lights. Though all does not go as planned (“shoplifting is a serious offense”) ~ mercy and goodwill prevail!
Along the way, as the pages turn as quickly as a child’s heartbeat on Christmas Eve, there is much more to enjoy!
~~ Consider one man’s lament that “…we Americans need the seed-givers of song as never before.”
~~ Smile as a family blessed with a lottery win learns that the best gift “…is nothing that could be wrapped”
This is a sampling of the stories~~ By no means all! You cannot escape the glitter of Christmas within these pages. It will cling to your heart and your spirit, as glitter does.
A Christmas book to add to your library and to gift to family and friends!
Karen Shear
Author/Mom/Grandmom/Christmas Elf (at heart)
Introduction
12 New Christmas Stories, An Anthology is an engaging anthology that brings together twelve heartwarming Christmas tales by five talented authors. Each story in this collection captures the true meaning of Christmas, offering a variety of perspectives and styles that are sure to capture the hearts of readers.
Writing Styles
The anthology showcases a range of writing styles, from poetic and descriptive to straightforward and engaging. Each author brings their unique voice to the collection. The prose is vivid and evocative, making the stories come alive and immersing the reader in the storylines.
Standout Stories
Among the many extraordinary tales, these stories stand out for their exceptional storytelling and emotional depth:
“The Christmas Tree” by Terry Broxson: This story intertwines a modern-day narrative with a historical tale set in the mountains of New Mexico. The protagonist’s interaction with his talking cat, Holly, adds a whimsical touch, while the historical elements explore themes of love, peace, and cultural traditions. Vivid descriptions and engaging dialogue make this story particularly memorable.
“The Magic of Santa’s Christmas Box” by Diane Kenel-Truelove: This sentimental narrative beautifully captures the magic of Christmas through the eyes of a child. The author’s ability to evoke the innocence and wonder of the holiday season makes it a standout piece in the anthology.
“A Christmas Gift” by Ann Mullen-Martin: This touching story portrays the bond between a foster parent and her adopted child. The heartfelt depiction of the characters’ emotional journey adds depth to the anthology, making it an unforgettable read.
“The Million Dollar Christmas” by Lee Allen Hill captures the excitement and confusion of a family’s unexpected windfall during the holiday season. The author’s playful and humorous writing style brings a sense of joy and lightheartedness to the collection while also exploring deeper themes of generosity and familial bonds.
“Bring Back the Carolers” by Jay Squires: This story describes a longing for simpler times when Carolers brought the spirit of Christmas to every neighborhood. The evocative descriptions and heartfelt message remind readers of the importance of tradition and community, making this story a poignant addition to the anthology.
Themes and Emotional Impact
The anthology explores a variety of themes, such as family, love, tradition, and redemption. Each story explores the emotional aspects of the season, from the joy of family gatherings to the bittersweet memories of loved ones lost. The authors skillfully capture the wonder of Christmas, making the stories both relatable and moving.
Overall Impression
12 New Christmas Stories, An Anthology is an endearing collection that beautifully encapsulates the magic and warmth of the Christmas season. The diversity of writing styles and perspectives ensures that there is something for everyone. The stories are filled with relatable characters and engaging plots that will leave readers feeling nostalgic, joyful, inspired, and fulfilled.
This anthology is perfect for those who cherish the spirit of Christmas and enjoy a good story. Whether you’re looking to be reminded of the magic of the season or to find comfort in shared experiences, 12 New Christmas Stories, An Anthology is a wonderful addition to any holiday reading list.
Jamison Brown
Award-winning writer featured in several magazines and publications
I’m Jewish, but from now on, this book will be my annual must-read . . . the perfect amalgam of humor, tradition, poignancy, and holiday magic. I simply loved it
Rachelle Allen
Author of Lessons in the Key of Life
Twelve New Christmas Stories is a book to enjoy—and read again and again.
Wendy Smith Gordon
Internationally recognized author of Telling Tales—Out of School
These heartwarming short stories are all you will need to put you in the Christmas spirit. . . ‘More fun than 16 monkeys in a pickle jar.’ I simply love this book.
Debbie Pope
Author and poet
. . . just what Santa ordered for sighs, smiles, and a few outright guffaws for this and Christmases to come.
N.K. Wagner
Founding Editor and Publisher (retired) of Page & Spine Fiction Showcase
It’s never to early for Christmas….at least not for me! 12 New Christmas Stories is a refreshing anthology of unique, heartwarming, and extremely well written Christmas tales. Written by five different and talented authors it provides the reader with a diversity of writing styles and story lines that so aptly convey the true message of Christmas.
I loved all the stories in the book but was especially fond of the stories written by Lee Allen Hill. He has a way of bringing a story to life that is so vivid….as if watching it unfold on a movie screen. Jesus and Donkey is probably my favorite story in the book but, honestly, I will read them all over and over again for years to come.
I’ve already purchased additional copies to be given as Christmas gifts to my circle of friends. I think it would be great Christmas gift for anyone!
Linda S.
via Amazon
After reading 12 New Christmas Stories, I can honestly say that Christmas is alive and well, and there is hope for the human race in these questionable times.
The wonder of the season is manifest in these stories of thoughtfulness, kindness, generosity, and tradition. We are treated to the best in people with this heartwarming and skillfully written collection of stories by five talented authors. Some are fiction, some non-fiction, some humorous, and some sad, but all are told with a view of the specialness of Christmas and highlight the profound effect the season has on us.
My two favorites were “A Christmas Gift” by Ann Mullen-Martin in which the gift of being able to adopt a child by a lonely former foster mother becomes the best gift of her life, and “The Magic of Santa’s Christmas Box” by Diane Kenel-Truelove in which the gift of a simple box covered only in brown paper helped to restore a young girl’s belief in Santa Claus and the magic of the season.
But all of the stories will melt your heart and leave you wishing the spirit of Christmas could last year-round.
JW
via Amazon
I loved the variety of Christmas tales from so many perspectives!!! It’s not a long book but a great one to read and share.
Jim B
Via Amazon
This book took me back to my childhood, and truly touched my inner child. I thought it was enjoyable and very well written.
I found it to be entertaining and I would recommend to anyone and any age group.
DebiLee
Via Goodreads
Terry Broxson and his writing colleagues have put together a wonderful set of stories to enchant the child in us all.
The perfect stocking stuffer for Xmas.
Ann M.
Via Amazon
All of the stories will melt your heart and leave you wishing the spirit of Christmas could last the year-round.
Jim Wile
Author of Saving Mr. Calvin
What a find! 12 New Christmas Stories led me to thinking about similar stories of my own. All the authors bring something different. Good job!