There is so much love, compassion, kindness, wisdom and hope written into this story. Isabelle and Dominique are realistic and likeable as they work through a move to a new town with three children. Their relationship is natural and heartwarming. They are role models for the belief that Love of family is universal and isn't limited by gender.
At the beginning of the story, when the town's adults were unfriendly I thought the story was going to be about shunning the lesbian couple but instead it turned out to be a story of people who feared themselves as much as they feared strangers. I loved the part when the Scouts tricked their parents into coming to the apartment and the diversity of the parents was apparent in a natural, totally accepting manner.
There are so many talking points in this story and I found myself wanting to read it to a group of kids just for the joy of talking about the many elements that went into this story. How delightful is it to show families that find each other again during the holidays instead of the usual family quarrels?
I had no expectations starting this book and I'm happy to say that reading it has introduced me to a new author and illustrator. Santa and the elves don't overshadow but definitely play a big role in steering the story. Which will make it a fun read or listen for a wide age range. The illustrations are the perfect backdrop for the story and reflect the story's actions for younger readers/listeners.
This story both delighted and reminded me that love and hope are always available in our world, sometimes we just have to work harder to find it. The past couple of weeks (years, really) have left us all with the need to be reminded that love and miracles are out there if we're open to the possibilities.