Review #36: Elmer, the Christmas Elf by Marilyn E. Randall

Title: Elmer, the Christmas Elf

Author and Illustrator: Marilyn E. Randall

Publisher: Lulu Publishing

Format: Review copy from author

Genre: Children's Book for Readers 5 to 10

ISBN: 978-0-557-15333-6

Rating: 4/5

My Review and Description:

I received this book from the author along with two of her other non-holiday titles, For Faithful Friends and Inside Out.

I am always eager to discover new and exciting children's books to read to my son, especially if they have a good message.

Randall's books all have a valuable lesson mixed with faith and compassion, qualities she finds important to pass on to our children. Me too!

Elmer, the Christmas Elf is a hard working elf and takes his job very seriously. It makes him incredibly happy to make toys for children every Christmas and have they ready for Santa to deliver. This Christmas a toy is left behind. Elmer is upset and tries to think of a fast solution so no child if left without a gift. He prays to an angel to send his message to Santa.

Santa not only hears his message but brings the child back with him to Elmer so he can deliver the gift himself. The message is simple "To give at Christmas with a joyous heart, is to share the love of God, and there is no greater gift from Him than his love, of which you've got"

This book is really sweet. I am not an overly religious person but I do have faith and am inspired by kindness and compassion. This book speaks to the giver in all of us and how important it is to be kind and giving.

The writing is in a poetic prose with a definite "beat" to it. I read it out loud to my son. It is a tad bit wordy for his age so that's why I say it's geared for an older reader.

Her other two books are just as sweet. For Faithful Friends is about being fearful of change and how good friends help you through. Inside Out is about loving who you are.

Marilyn Randall does her own illustrating and writing and is self published. Any support for new, creative authors is so important. Check out her website here for more info.

Happy Reading!

red headed book child