111. The 13th Day of Christmas

111. The 13th Day of Christmas. Adam Rex. 2025. 48 pages. [Source: Library] [4 stars, picture book, Christmas]

First sentence: I was having a lonely Christmas because my true love was visiting her parents. So it was real quiet when I heard chirping. I didn't really want a bird, but it was nice enough. It came in this little pear tree, and I like pears. The card said my true love sent it, so of course I loved it. Of course I did.

Premise/plot: This humorous book is told from the perspective of the recipient of the twelve days of Christmas. A man has received a LOT from his one true love. But how much was intended to be sent? And what does she have in mind?

My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. It was silly. He is trying to cope with EVERYTHING and trying to puzzle out WHY his true love sent him ALL these odd, strange presents. Can he find a way to spread the joy of Christmas?

© 2025 Becky Laney of Young Readers

110. A Christmas Sonata

110. A Christmas Sonata. Gary Paulsen. Illustrated by Leslie Bowman. 1992. 80 pages. [Source: Library] [3 stars][Christmas, historical, family drama]

First sentence: It comes on everybody at a certain time in their life not to believe in Santa Claus.

Premise/plot: This is a short novella for children presumably though probably not best appreciated by children. A boy and his mother travel to spend Christmas with relatives in Minnesota. His cousin is dying and this will be his last Christmas. His father is away fighting in the Second World War. He's decided that Santa is NOT real. And his cousin is also unsure if Santa is real. Both are skeptical but a tiny bit hopeful. Will he believe in Santa or not?

My thoughts: This was a strange read. On the bright side it was a very short read. I think it might work better as a Christmas special or movie. This is a bittersweet story though perhaps kids may not pick up on that as much as adults? Or maybe they would. I'm glad I read it, but, I can't imagine rereading it.


© 2025 Becky Laney of Young Readers