by Tina Velgos|
by Tina Velgos |
The Christmas Doll |
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Unique novel teaches children the true miracle of giving
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| Elvira Woodruff can spin a clever tale. This award-winning author has done it again in
a heart-warming saga about two orphaned sisters who give up their only worldly possession,
a doll, to a dying girl less fortunate than they are. Thanks to the author's imaginatively rich writing style, it's easy to picture the scenario that 10-year-old Lucy and her younger sister, Glory, experience as wards of a workhouse in which a deadly epidemic runs rampant. Kids step into the orphans' shoes as the author describes the horrid living conditions the sisters endured for years as they decide to flee from the workhouse. Penniless, the girls learn that survival is a matter of life or death on the bitterly cold streets of London. In a stroke of luck, Lucy lands a job as a "Hearts Girl" in Thimblebee's Doll Shop as she delicately embroiders hearts on each hand-sewn doll in time for Christmas. This is a story that teaches children the true meaning of Christmas. It's a terrific gift for kids who may be spoiled by the number of presents they receive. By reading this book, kids ages 8 and up can learn to appreciate what they have and realize how horrible it could be live on the streets. I especially liked Lucy's character, who herself weaves a wonderful tale for her sick sister about a magical doll and a family she barely remembers. It is her gift of sharing magical words that keeps her little sister alive. An enormously generous gesture by Lucy and Glory proves that there's more to Christmas than receiving--the true gift is giving, loving and sharing hope. Despite this being a book of fiction, it's message is very real. |
