Title: All I Want for Christmas Is…A Family
Author: L.P. Randolph
Publisher: Christian Faith
ISBN: 978-1098079512
Pages: 30
Genre: Children’s Christmas Book
Reviewed by: Christina Avina

Hollywood Book Reviews

One of the hardest questions at times to answer is what a family truly is to you. Whether you are a child looking for answers to who your family is, or you are an adult trying to build a family of your own, the question of what constitutes a family unit is a worthwhile and important part of life as a whole. For some, family is about blood and those we share it with, while for others, family is about the bonds we form together and the strength of that bond.

In author L.P. Randolph’s All I Want for Christmas Is…A Family, the author shares the emotional journey to discovering the true meaning of family. In the children’s book, the star of a Christmas tree experiences heartache as they see signs of families all around them, never feeling like they are part of a family of their own. With two days left until Christmas, not only must the people around the star discover what they truly want for Christmas, but the star itself must find what the true purpose and meaning behind a family truly is.

The author does a wonderful job of balancing the warm and animated imagery of the illustrations with the rich and modern-day story of a unique family unit and the journey it takes to discover itself. The cast of characters found in this story, from the mother and her daughter to their long list of pets and of course the Christmas Tree Star all provided engaging dialogue and inventive scenes that brought the animated decor and even the pets to life in a fun way that children will connect with easily. The emotional connection is there as well, allowing both parents and children alike from all walks of life to feel seen and heard in their family units.

This is the perfect read for those who enjoy children’s books, especially those that infuse a hint of humor, a whole lot of heart, and elements of Christian fiction as well. The narrative felt like a holiday version of the Brave Little Toaster, as the protagonist, the animated Christmas Tree Star, took on the role of the audience as they both discovered the true meaning of being part of a family, and the joy that comes with the sense of belonging that family can bring.

Memorable, heartfelt, and captivating, author L.P. Randolph’s All I Want for Christmas is…A Family is a must-read children’s book. The compassion and creativeness the author showcases throughout this book and the theme of belonging all play beautifully across the Christmas setting, making this an inviting story for parents and children alike to get lost in during the holiday season and beyond.