Review sponsored* by Ken Robb
The Children’s Book Review | September 7, 2018
Jolly’s Christmas
Written by Ken Robb
Age Range: All Ages
Paperback: 44 pages
Publisher: Archway Publishing (2018)
ISBN: 978-1-4808-6463-4
What to Expect: Christmas, Inspirational Storyline, Disabled Characters.
Jolly’s Christmas is the story of a young moose who dreams of flying like a reindeer. A talented athlete, Jolly dreams of leading his team to victory in the North Pole Winter Wonderland Games. However, to realize his dreams Jolly will face challenges beyond anything he might have imagined. From sabotage by other athletes to an unexpected attack by vicious poachers, Jolly encounters set-back after set-back as he tries to pursue his dream of flying. However, when a daring leap to freedom leaves him paralyzed in both back legs, Jolly comes to understand that the greatest challenge will come not from others, but from himself. Can Jolly find the strength and determination to follow his heart? In this heartwarming Christmas tale, everything depends on Jolly believing in himself.
Although there are a number of good picture books available that deal with the theme of disability, many more are needed; for this reason, Jolly’s Christmas is a welcome addition to the available children’s Christmas stories. The story’s focus on sportsmanship and teamwork is particularly valuable: through a colorful cast of animal characters, Robb reminds readers that no matter what a person’s physical characteristics might be, each and every individual has something valuable to offer to others. Stark storytelling characterized by present tense active verbs focuses the reader’s attention on the action, emphasizing that despite his disability, Jolly is far from disabled. This is an endearing tale with a valuable message which goes beyond the usual sentimentality of Christmas spirit to encourage genuine caring for oneself and for others: it’s a beautiful story.
Available Here
About the Author
Ken Robb is a storyteller who enjoys developing characters and bringing them to life in books and on film. While growing up in Colorado, Ken learned to ski and watched physically challenged athletes train. Their courage, determination, and spirit provided inspiration for his first children’s book, Jolly’s Christmas. Ken completed the UCLA Professional Program in Screenwriting and continues to write and pitch film and television screenplays in addition to his book projects.
Jolly Kryzmooz lives in the NorthWoodz and enjoys playing sports and competing with his friends. Jolly’s journey started as a screenplay and written by Ken. The screenplay has been well received by reviewers and in competitions. The picture book started as a proof of concept for the movie. If you would like more information about the screenplay, please contact Ken or Jolly.
For more information, visit: jollyschristmas.com
Contact: kr [at] jollyschristmas [dot] com
Accolades
Jolly’s Christmas Screenplay Competition Success
Quarter-Finalist in the PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Finalist in the Canadian Faith & Family Film Festival
Quarter-Finalist in the Screencraft Family Screenplay Contest
Honorable Mention in the Colorado Film Festival
Second Rounder at the Austin Film Festival.
Dedicated Reviews allow authors and illustrators to gain prompt visibility for their work. Ken Robb sponsored* this non-biased review of “Jolly’s Christmas.” Learn more about getting a book review …
