About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the ache of wanting to belong or is expressing deep, quiet longings that seem out of reach. It is a soul-soothing choice for children navigating foster care, adoption, or simply the universal childhood fear of being left behind during the holidays. The story follows three parallel wishes: Ivy, an orphan searching for a grandmother; Holly, a Christmas doll wishing for a child; and Mrs. Jones, a woman with an empty house wishing for a daughter. This is a gentle, sophisticated tale that validates the weight of loneliness while offering a radiant, hopeful resolution. Godden's prose is elegant and timeless, making it an ideal choice for parents who want to nurture empathy and emotional resilience in their children. It is particularly powerful for children ages 5 to 10 who appreciate a story that takes their feelings seriously without being overly sentimental.
