Stocking Fillers

"Stocking Fillers" follows a cast of entertaining characters as they prepare for the festive season, from a small boy trying to teach Santa time management to the elderly lady celebrating what's likely to be her last Christmas Day. Unlike many Christmas-themed books, "Stocking Fillers" does not sugar-coat the festive experience, and not all of the characters are lovable. But ultimately it's a heartwarming celebration of all things festive.

The tales form an entertaining catalogue of how characters of all ages respond to the anxieties that abound at this time of year, from a small boy who tries to give Santa lessons in time management to the elderly lady who is marking what's likely to be her last Christmas. Others tackle such important questions as:

- Will you ever get everything ready in time?
- Will everyone like their presents?
- Will you like yours?
- How will Father Christmas fit us all in?
- And who is the real Santa, anyway?

Here is the list of story titles, kicking off with a very funny parody of a Christmas round-robin letter:

• The Christmas Letter
• I'm Dreaming of a Green Christmas
• Do You Believe?
• The Revolting Toys
• Park and Ride
• Christmas Time
• The Groundhog Christmas
• The True Cost of Christmas
• The Unexpected Guest
• The Unwanted Gift
• Good Christmas Housekeeping
• Past, Present, Yet to Come

Unlike many festive books, this collection does not sugar-coat every Christmas experience, and a few of the characters aren't exactly lovable, but they're certainly memorable. But ultimately it's a heartwarming collection and an easy, quick read to be enjoyed by anyone who loves the traditional Christmas, at any time of year.

Many readers report that reading these stories has become an annual tradition in their household, a Christmas Carol for the modern era.