Truthy Ruthy's Christmas Surprise by Sari Barel

Why hello there!

Welcome back to the site that aims to keep you up to date on the bookish wonders passing before my eyes in the hopes of enticing you into the adventure too….Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Today, we are taking a look at the newest release from a children’s storybook author featuring a likeable, nah…loveable little girl who just wants the holiday to turn out just right.  As we adult readers know, that’s not always in the cards…but making the best of what comes is just as well and can lead to unexpected surprises and joys we never imagined.  Case in point here.  Ready to meet and greet Ruthy in her latest adventure?  Don your gay apparel and break out the hot cocoa, it’s time to meet today’s holiday tinged book of choice…

Truthy Ruthy’s Christmas Surprise

By

Sari Barel

Illustrated by 

Neda F. 

For those of you that read Truthy Ruthy previously (*raises hand*), you already have some idea of the story you’re in for; for those that haven’t, no worries…you’re in good hands!  Think good will.  Think kind of heart.  Think lessons learned that are good for both the characters on the page AND those reading along.  This adorable illustrations and a story perfect for the holidays…with a little something extra, or rather TWO something’s.  First up, the story. 

This one is different from her other adventures as it let’s readers choose one of THREE endings; sort of a choose-your-own-path effect for beginning readers.  It lets you see how Ruthy’s holiday turns out when she’s close minded and stubborn, crafty and creative, and finally, virtuous and accepting.  That’s an awful lot of feelings for one little ebook, right?  Wrong!  It works PERFECTLY…hand in hand with the story’s beginning, and the lessons being taught along the way.  It reminds us that though we can’t control everything in our day, we have the power to choose our reactions to what comes our way. ..for better or for worse.  Something A LOT of folks need reminding of this holiday season… *ahem*.  Now for the second “extra”….

The author is known for having a little “something extra” in her books, whether it be a print out certificate of a promise made or an activity guide to continue the learning at home…and this story is no different.  This time around though, the author is encouraging the writer and illustrator in you and yours.  That’s right!  Along with the wonderful story, you also get to print out a template to create and illustrate your FIRST BOOK!  I can definitely see a lot of little ones getting in on this bit of fun…and some of the older crew as well.  ^_^

In closing, a great little ebook perfect for putting underneath your virtual tree.  It will entertain the mind and delight the eyes, but also teach the heart that holiday magic doesn’t come from a store, it comes from what we give of ourselves.  Be it time, be it money, be it hugs and kisses; whatever you have to spare this holiday season or an abundance of, pass it on.  After all, it’s not the getting that makes us grow the most, it’s the giving…and I’m done inadvertently sampling from some of my favorite holiday specials in this post (bonus points to those of you that caught the references).

Author Sari Barel

Ebook for review courtesy of author Sari Barel.  (THANKS!)   To learn more about the author behind this series of goodwill driven, grow with you books, stop by the author’s site or catch her on Google+.  This title is available now at online retailer near you so be sure to click on over for a looksee.  While you’re there, be sure to check out her other adventures; all just as good as this one, just without the holiday theme.

Until next time…happy reading!