Sam's Christmas Wish...Review

About the book:
Sam Edwards isn’t looking forward to Christmas, at least not this year. Since losing his job a few weeks before, he hasn’t had any luck in finding a new one. He isn’t sure how he can give his family a merry Christmas, and the last thing he wants is charity from his neighbors. But when he falls asleep in his living room—with his shotgun across his lap just to make sure no one attempts to visit him—he wakes up to find his front porch laden with Christmas goodies. But when he tries to find out who left the presents, the freshly fallen snow reveals no footprints.

Years later, Sam’s wife has passed away and his children are grown. Old and sick, Sam remembers the kindness of the anonymous stranger from long ago and wishes for an opportunity to bless another’s life. So on Christmas Eve, when he sees his neighbor’s house on fire, he hopes that he can be the means for another anonymous miracle.

Sam Edwards lost his job and money is tight. He doesn't want charity and is pretty outspoken about it. He falls asleep on Christmas Eve, with a shotgun across his lap to ensure that no one comes by or brings anything. Awakening on Christmas morning however, his house is full of Christmas gifts. But no footprints or anything to indicate how they arrived.

As he's storming around, trying to find a reason for the gifts, he watches his children's joy at receiving them and his heart softens. That Christmas spirit enters his heart and he realizes that it's about service and giving, not receiving.

As years go by, many in the community benefit from Sam's kindness, but he has always wanted the opportunity to serve anonymously. When that opportunity comes, Sam blesses another and finds true joy in Christmas service.

The story is not long, but is poignant. I did think that the ending, while expected, was a little abrupt. But this is a sweet Christmas story with gorgeous illustrations and a lovely message that Christmas isn't just an event, it's a feeling of love and a spirit of giving.

Thanks to Shadow Mountain for the opportunity to review this book. You can purchase your own copy here.

Read 11/14

* * * *
4/5 Stars

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