Author R.J. Amezcua brings a seasonal tale of magic in which the other-worldly characters battle to restore the Heart of Christmas in A FEMICH CHRISTMAS. As in most cultures, the characters in this story have their festive traditions. The Hopy gather around the Unity Tree in the village every year with their empty Santa gift boxes. There, they make a wish as they pick an Agape bulb, and tell stories of “unity, peace, and gladness.” And fairies visit every home where they garnish every tree with a Christmas North Star. This year, though, there is trouble afoot: the boxes have disappeared! The Hopy blame the Kiko – with their “sharp teeth” and “red and green hair” – as they are known to hate Christmas. The Mayor of the Hopy charges Sheribelle and her guardian angel, Ariel, with undertaking a special journey to restore the Heart of Christmas. When Sheribelle’s sled lands in the Nabba Forest, the heartland of the Kiko, she is at first afraid. But then she meets Sammy, who is searching for the missing Agape bulb missing from the Unity tree. He too is seeking to restore the Heart of Christmas. The two discover they are not so different after all. By joining forces, Sheribelle and Sammy succeed in their quest, signaling the start of a new Christmas tradition: the Kiko vow to visit the Hopy every Christmas henceforward, in the spirit of “eternal friendship.”
This children’s book has much to recommend it. The story is perfect for the festive period, with its snow, sleds, gift boxes, and fantastical characters. The illustrations are colorful and eye-catching, guaranteed to hold the attention of young readers. The tale has a comforting “happy ever after” element that is reassuring to children. The fun doesn’t end with the finale of the story, either: the author has thoughtfully included the sheet music and lyrics for the “Heart of Christmas” song that features in the story, as well as a cut-out Christmas Unity tree decoration. And despite its festive theme, this book isn’t just about Christmas: it teaches children, in a fun and accessible way, about the importance of unity. It encourages them to find out about others different from themselves before fearing or judging them.
A FEMICH CHRISTMAS is an excellent choice of book for those who want their children to both engage with the magic of the festive period and learn essential life lessons.
~Amanda Ellison for IndieReader