*I was sent this book for an honest review*
If I can be so bold, I’d like to say that this book renewed my faith in ARCS (Advanced Reader Copies). Recently, the ARCS I’ve read have disappointed me to say the least. As a result, I was actually dreading this when I first opened the book, but I was met with a pleasant surprise! I have read many reviews about A Christmas Kerril and the common theme amongst all of the negative ones was a dislike of the main character, Kerril. Yes, I did feel the same way at first, but then I thought about it and realized that because she is so selfish and miserly, it completely brings out the character change that occurs by the end of the novel. Also, it is a tale meant to mimic that of Dickins’ A Christmas Carol, and I think that the author did a great job portraying that. I wished she developed the idea of the baker a bit more (Kerril had a huge baking obsession) and added some imporoved transitions between certain scenes. However, as a whole, it was a very cute story that is perfect to read in snowy weather and around Christmas as well. I think with a professional editor it would be better, but in general I would highly recommend this book if you want a refreshing YA novel, with some major themes mixed in (such as bullying, speech impedments, cheating in relationships, etc.). Be aware that it does use some foul language, and disrepectful attitudes towards those with impediments (which did really irriate me, but is essential to the plot I think).
"A fun and unique new twist on a classic Christmas story that lovers AND haters of the holiday will enjoy!"
A Christmas Kerril is a great, young adult book inspired by the original story by Charles Dickens. Kerril hates Christmas! Bad memories of her parent’s fights at Christmas have brought her to the point where she doesn’t celebrate it at all. Then she walks into her creative writing class, and finds out that the winning play, the one they will put on before Christmas, is called A Christmas Kerril. And she is cast as the lead. She will be acting opposite Adam, the author of the play, who stutters. It feels like a punishment. Now she is forced into something that deals with Christmas.
The characters in the book are written so well. Kerril is a real teenager. She struggles with friends, with parents, with guys, with trying to figure out who she really is. She makes mistakes and feels the pain of knowing she’s done wrong. She comes to know what really matters. I admired Kerril. She has a good, kind spirit, and wants to help others, even if she doesn’t always act that way. Like I said, she’s a real teenager. Adam appears shy, but has so much courage and strength within him. I was really routing for him! I would love to learn more about the side characters and their lives. Sequel?? I would welcome one!
This is a great book! You will want to shake some sense into Kerril sometimes, but you will love watching her find herself.
There is some swearing in the book, mostly in the first half.
I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
