About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the heavy realization that magic cannot always fix real world problems, especially regarding the serious illness of a loved one. Set in 1958, it follows eight year old Tess as she navigates the bittersweet tension between the whimsical wonder of Christmas and the somber reality of her best friend's father battling cancer. It is a gentle, sophisticated exploration of faith, hope, and the limitations of a child's influence over adult hardships. While the 1950s setting provides a nostalgic and cozy atmosphere, the emotional core is timeless. It is particularly appropriate for elementary aged children who are beginning to understand that life contains both great joy and great sorrow. Parents might choose this book to help a child process feelings of helplessness or to validate that it is okay to hope for miracles while still acknowledging the reality of a difficult situation.
