BOOK REVIEW: Santa's Boots [Silly Santa Series Book #1]

TITLE: Santa's Boots - Book 1 in the Silly Santa Series.
AUTHOR: Andy Cooper

PUBLISHED BY: A.P. Cooper Books

I loved everything about this book; I was immediately attracted to this author’s innovative debut story by the colourful illustrations on the cover and upon opening the book was enthralled by the originality of the artwork which the author has undertaken himself.

This is a very entertaining story telling how, on Christmas Eve, somebody had stolen Santa’s magic boots. He enlists the help of Carrot the cat; however readers must wait until the end to find out if he can find the boots in time, or if not, whether the elves manage to find Santa something else to put on his feet, for if they can, Christmas will be saved. I don’t want to spoil the enjoyment of the story by giving away the ending but it is very funny and children will love the concept of Santa having smelly feet and contemplating wearing an assortment of boots instead of hisusual ones.

The story is aimed at 3-6 year olds but I think it is richly entertaining for older readers; it is an easy read for the targeted age group whilst also containing more challenging words to stretch their vocabulary and learning. Children will enjoy finding out how Santa solved his problem and will love the fabulous illustrations. This is a delightful book for parents and grandparents to read to their children and grandchildren during the build up to Christmas; it’s also perfect for a Christmas Eve box.

Readers young and old will love the ending; the build-up is suitably paced and happily it doesn’t become monotonous with repetition; it also has just the right amount of suspense to create a genuine surprise at the end.

The colourful, funny illustrations are splendid and very entertaining, parents and children will be delighted by them as they are quirky and original.  The whole concept is very different and appealing in comparison with other Christmas books currently available for children.

The book’s compact size makes it manageable for a child with small hands to hold. An additional bonus are the wipe-clean front and back covers, ideal for parents reading it to children with sticky fingers.

This book is part of the ‘Silly Santa Series’ and I’m very much looking forward to reading more; it is a skilfully written story, cleverly devised and beautifully illustrated by A. P. Cooper.

Reviewer - Anne Pritchard