Review of Christmas Without a Fireplace

[Roy Nick]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Christmas Without a Fireplace" by Karina Elze.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Muslims do not consume pork, but Christians do. While some people attend church services on Sundays, others do it on Saturdays. Again, others do not believe in God, and it is okay. We live in a diversified world. One party should not belittle the other because of their preferred choice. Christmas Without a Fireplace by Karina Elze teaches children about respecting people's opinions.

Ana contemplates whether Santa Claus is real. Her friend, Sofi, believes Santa Claus is unreal, and even if he was, he only enters homes with a fireplace. Ana's house does not have one. One day after school, she approaches her aunt and asks her if she believes in Santa Claus. Her aunt decides to respond to the question indirectly. She takes an album of pictures captured over time and shows Ana different photos of their neighbors' celebrations.

One photo shows a neighbor celebrating Ramadan. The guests invited, including Ana, enjoyed sumptuous meals. Another household celebrates Hanukkah and another Christmas. Another picture describes a home that chooses not to celebrate anything. Ana's aunt tells her it is up to her to decide whether to believe in Santa Claus or not.

I liked reading about the many celebration days various people enjoy. Firstly, we have Kwanzaa Day, an annual celebration of African-American culture. Though the author did not include an explanation in the book, I searched on Google and learned about the same.

On each page, each illustration corresponds to the celebration. For instance, during Ramadan, we have a lady wearing a hijab. The creativity was worth noting! There were not any grammatical errors. Hence, the book is exceptionally well edited. I encountered nothing to despise. I rate the work 4 out of 4 stars.

Kids can learn lessons about respect. Plus, they ought to coexist in harmony when they have clashing opinions. As the book culminates, Ana makes an informed decision about her belief in Santa Claus. I recommend Christmas Without a Fireplace to kids with conflicting views regarding believing in Santa Claus.

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Christmas Without a Fireplace
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Youngreader720-OluwabukunmiWilliamsOso]

I love children's books that take the time to impart positive values on kids, and this one does not disappoint by teaching about respect. This is a book I can use to educate my nephew, and it's great to see that you enjoyed it.

[Jennifer Coxon]

This sounds like a nice way to discuss with children when they are at the age of potentially not believing. From another stand point I think it is interesting for children to learn about other celebrations that people have.

[Opara Jerry]

I’m not 100% sure if this is suitable for children because it seems a little too convoluted for younger children. After all, the religious discus might be very confusing and difficult for younger readers to navigate the religious and existential aspects of the book and Santa clause. Maybe I’m just judging this book by its cover.

[Katherine Powell-Polkey]

Oh this is fantastic! As a non-Christian, I'm very interested in reading this with my son. I think it would make a great gift for a friend too.

[R_becca]

I like how this book does not discriminate based on one's religious beliefs. It's an excellent lesson for children.