The Winter Wish

The Winter Wish is a beautiful and charming festive tale that really highlights the magic and wonder of Christmas. The story is set around William and his family. They live in a flat above the book shop they own. Because of this, William has grown up in a world of words...something which he absolutely adores. As much as words and books are a lure and love for William and his family, the same cannot be said for the rest of the town. Unfortunately, the family shop is located on the edge of the town.

One morning, right in the midst of the countdown to Christmas, William's parents deliver the worst news possible to him...they may have to shut the shop for good. William is understandably devastated but determined to find a way to save the shop. He creates the most beautiful window display complete with its own reindeer, but the family wonders if it is enough to lure people up the street and into the shop. That night, William is awoken by a tinkling sound.....is it the sound of magic and miracles?

The Winter Wish delivers the magic of Christmas you yearn for at this time of year and it is easy to make countless connections to other festive stories which mix wishes, magic and miracles. The text flows easily from page to page without the need for a rhyming style. Helen Mortimer and Rachael Dean have created a wholesome and beautifully illustrated text which leaves you feeling warm and content. It is novel to find a Christmas themed text in which the story doesn't revolve around Father Christmas, elves or a Christmas tree....and this certainly much of the charm.

The Winter Wish will now become a well loved addition to my Christmas book collection and one I look forward to sharing each year....I can even envision art display matching the window display ideas inside the book. I truly believe there is a lot of scope for this book at a primary age level.

Picture book / Reviewed by Kyle Matravers, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 3+

I can't wait to snuggle up this December and read The Winter Wish to my daughter. This is a charming tale of how one child's wish can change everything. The illustrations are beautiful and you can imagine walking into the book shop and browsing the shelf finding you next perfect read. Magic is dotted throughout the story and I couldn't wait to fine out what would happen on each page. A truly delightful Christmas story.

Picture book / Reviewed by Jennifer Bevan, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 3+