The Three Christmases of William Spencer

I am so looking forward to the next couple of days. Tomorrow we're having Thanksgiving at my mom's house. Jesse and I are making the desserts for it including pumpkin layer cheesecake and cherry cobbler. We'll spend the whole day eating great food, spending time with family, and eventually sucking horribly at Guitar Hero and Rock Band. Friday morning Doogie and I are hitting the Black Friday sales in Shawano, and then we're all heading to my dad's for more great food and family we just never see as much as we should. So I won't be blogging tomorrow, but should be back on schedule Friday afternoon, if I survive the crowds in Wal-mart that morning!

The Three Christmases of William Spencer by Derek Blount is a great little novella with a message of finding true happiness during the holidays. William Harrison Spencer Jr remembers three pivotal Christmases from his life; one as a young boy, one as a married father, and one as an elderly man sure he's at the end of his time on earth. Beautiful artwork by Joaquin Zarate accompanies each story. As a young boy, William's grandfather teaches him that happiness is an attitude, it's a choice to be made, regardless of circumstances. It's a powerful lesson, but one that he forgets in times of crisis throughout his life and needs to occasionally be reminded. Blount's writing keeps the story for veering into the mawkish or overly sentimental. It's a good reminder during the holidays, when many people feel alone or depressed missing those who aren't with them anymore, that happiness is always a choice we can make. During the busy holiday season, if you don't have time to read much, pick up this quick read for a reminder of the joy Christmas can bring. It would also make a great gift book.
Thank you to Phenix & Phenix Literary Publicists for providing me with a copy of this book for review.