12/18/08

Between the Covers

Book destined to be a Christmas classic

Review: The Paper Bag Christmas

By Mary Burns

The Paper Bag Christmas

By Kevin Alan Milne

($14.99, Hatchette Book Group)

The words, "Merry Christmas" are often accompanied by the "jingling bells of wanting." Like any kid waiting in line to see Santa, Mo adds to his Christmas list as he passes the stores filled with toys and electronic goodies. By the time he gets to the Big Guy, he has a lot on his list, but this Santa Claus has other things in mind for him.

Mo's real name is Molar, thanks to his father having been an enthusiastic dental student at the time he was born. He is nine years old, but his dad insisted he go to the mall to see Santa. To achieve the Best Gift Ever, he now needs to spend time at the local children's hospital. One of the children he visits won't leave her room and wears a paper bag over her head.

The foreword of this book asserts "...only a lucky few will encounter the likes of a real Christmas and the lasting joy it brings."

"The Paper Bag Christmas" affords that opportunity for you, and will be a family keepsake to bring out with the holiday decorations and read together each year.

Mary Burns is the owner of The BookWORKS in downtown Marysville and online at www.marysvillebookworks.com.