I must admit, the timing on reading this book was perfect for me. Since I lost my mother I've found myself questioning who I am without her. It's been an interesting and painful process, discovering who I am all over again, and one I never imagined I'd have to go through once I passed the teenage years. It's not easy dealing with the loss of people we love and The Santa Letters by Stacy Gooch Anderson has a wonderful way of showing just that.
I sat down at lunch with this book and didn't leave the table until I was finished. Yeah. It was that good.
The falling December snow brings with it the sadness that has engulfed the previous year for the Jensen family. This first year without their father and husband has been trying. Money is tight, but it's the emotional strain that threatens to snap under the weight of grief. Just as Emma and the children begin to sink beneath the surface, a mysterious package arrives on the doorstep. An ornate wax seal beckons them to open the accompanying note and start on a journey through Christmas. The note is signed simply, "Santa," and each day a package arrives to remind them of the true meaning of Christmas - love, family, memories, and, most important of all, Christ.
As I read the journey of the Jensen family, I found myself wondering how I too could apply the lessons taught in The Santa Letters and how I could serve those in need and those who have served me through my time of trial. If you haven't yet had the opportunity to read The Santa Letters, I would strongly encourage you to take the time to do so. It's a few hours spent that you'll never forget.
9 comments:
This was a great book! I'm glad that you liked it too. I hope you're hanging in there. I'm thinking of you. :)
Karen.
I'm glad you liked it and found yourself remembering the good things about and with your mom while reading it.
Thank you for the warm review...
All my best,
Stacy
Beautiful review, Karen!
Stacy is a great person and that was a great book! And Karen . . . you're a great person too. Love you!
Thank you for the review. I haven't heard of the book yet, but you have made me curious. I am new to the blogging world, and hope you don't mind me passing through. I need some good books to help me with some deep frusterations. Thank you for the suggestion. I will definately keep it in mind.
Karen, I just read your past post about your Mother's passing. I am so sorry to hear that! You and your family will be in my prayers.
Karen, I loved this book too, definitely one to recommend.
I've not read this book yet, Karen, but I think I ought to.
I lost my mom almost 21 years ago, just twelve days before Christmas. I now will make an effort to make those twelve days extra special in my home because I want to remember happy things, not the sad parts of losing her.
Maybe I ought to make The Santa Letters a part of my twelve days, eh? Thanks for the recommendation.
BTW, I tagged you for a simple and fun little game I thought was right up your alley. Hope you don't mind.
Loved the review, Karen. One of the best things a writer can do is connect with her audience, and you have not only shown how "The Santa Letters" did this for you, but your writing also connected with us, your readers. Thank you.
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