The Mitford Snowmen by Jan Karon

Title: The Mitford Snowmen
Author: Jan Karon
Published: October 2002
Published By: Viking
Format Read: Hardcover
Genre: Short Story, Christmas, Christian Fiction
Date Read: January 4 2015
Rating: 4/5

With a heavy snowfall blanketing the town of Mitford, its residents decide to have an impromptu snowman building contest. Following the characters from Karon’s popular series, The Mitford Snowmen is a cute short story. This small hardcover book features colourful artwork as well.

I came across this little book while searching through the shelves at my local library. I was looking for shorter books to read during a read-a-thon and The Mitford Snowmen was a perfect addition to my pile. It also fit in with the current winter season.

Jan Karon’s Mitford series has been on my TBR list for some time now and this was a wonderful introduction to the characters and the setting. It also gave me an idea of the authors writing style.

Although its characters are from an adult series, this story would be appropriate for adults and children alike. Associated with Hallmark, there are even Mitford themed décor which along with this book would make a wonderful gift. 

Mitford Snowmen Jubilee Set (Hallmark)  found on
Ornament Mall

The Christmas Joy Ride by Melody Carlson

Title: The Christmas Joy Ride
Author: Melody Carlson
Published: September 2015
Published By: Revell
Format Read: Hardcover
Genre: Christian Fiction, Christmas, Contemporary, Inspirational
Date Read: November 17 2015
Rating: 3.5/5

I was sent a copy of The Christmas Joy Ride by Melody Carlson from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. 

At 85 years-old Joy finally decided to sell her home at the request of her sons and make the move into an assisted living apartment. But she isn’t quite ready to follow every one of the expectations her boys set for her. With one last adventure in mind, Joy decides to set out on a Christmas road trip along Route 66, in a decorated RV. Along with her neighbour Miranda, she aims to spread some joy to a select number of people who wrote into a contest she held on her blog. 

The Premise:

Who doesn’t love a story about a sweet old lady with a strong stubborn sense of independence? Add some Christmas spirit and a road trip, then you have The Christmas Joy Ride. Not only does Joy intend to help her selected contest winners, but by bringing her neighbour Miranda along for the journey she changes her life as well. 

The Lesson:

By spreading even a little bit of Christmas cheer, these two characters teach readers that even the most simple gesture can mean the world to someone going through a difficult time, especially during the holiday season.  

The Characters:

Upon learning that Joy was a blogger, I felt an instant connection with her. Sure this story is a work of fiction, but this character was wonderfully selfless which is quite rare in this day and age. Miranda on the other hand was very much a lost soul, like those they would visit along the way. However her love and concern for Joy created such a sweet bond between the two women. 

Bumps along the road:

Like any good story the two women ran into their share of troubles along the way. Reading The Christmas Joy Ride was a warm and cozy experience that I enjoyed. However I would like to have learned more about Route 66 and Joy herself. 

I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a quick Christmas tale. I think that it would be especially appealing to those who enjoy Hallmark holiday movies.