Book Review: 12 New Christmas Stories

Reviewed by Elizabeth Zender

A glittering anthology that’ll make you wish Christmas was every day

Each of the five authors of 12 New Christmas Stories brings something inspiring and gentle to these holiday tales. Grow your heart three sizes, Mr. Grinch, with this heartwarming and emotional holiday anthology.

“The Magic of Santa’s Christmas Box” by Diane Kenel-Truelove is an especially sweet story. She relates the tale of a girl whose siblings have moved on from believing in Santa, leading her to worry that they may be right. Doubts vanish, though, at the sight of a box addressed solely to her, gifted by “Santa.” Regardless of whether or not you celebrated Christmas in 1960, you will find yourself feeling wistful for the magic of childhood during the holiday season.

For readers who’d rather read legends, you’ll enjoy Terry Broxson’s “The Christmas Tree.” A man records his cat sharing the story of a fur trapper named Kit, who fought alongside the Arapaho people against a band of Apache warriors in 1833. Not long after, Kit marries Singing Grass, the daughter of the Indian chief, and she shares their Christmas traditions with him. 

The entire anthology is steeped in nostalgia and care. “That Christmas Was Different” by Ann Mullen-Martin shares the story of a family’s first attempt at the Christmas spirit after the death of their mother, shining a light on the importance of togetherness in tough times. 

Lee Allen Hill writes “Jesús and Donkey,” telling the story of a young boy and his dog who hope to bring joy (and a delicious turkey) to his mother for Christmas dinner. Jesús reminds us that the holiday is worth sharing with others. 

Jay Squires points out the necessity of Christmas carolers in “Bring Back the Carolers.” The narrator tells a story of one Christmas season where carolers stopped by his home, likely after dozens of performances, yet still performing their hearts out. He asks where all the carolers have gone, noting the severe lack of them in America these days. 

With each of these twelve stories, readers are treated to a different vision of Christmas, all with the same sense of magic, wonder, and joy. Even when something goes wrong or someone has passed on, the tales evoke feelings of warmth and longing for time spent with those that we love. If you want to reminisce on times gone by, if you want to feel like it’s Christmas today, or if you just want a feel-good holiday read, 12 New Christmas Stories would be an excellent choice.

Thank you for reading Elizabeth Zender’s book review of 12 New Christmas Stories by Lee Allen Hill, Diane Kenel-Truelove, et al.! If you liked what you read, please spend some more time with us at the links below.

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