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The Legend of Holly Claus

(2006, Fiction - Holiday, Written by Brittney Ryan, Illustrated by Laurel Long)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 7, age appropriate for kids over 9; suggested age 9.
  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    St. Nick's saintly child plays fantasy heroine.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 9 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Holly is a model of a strong heroine that thinks on her feet, makes wise decisions, and wants happiness for all. She also puts others before herself and respects her parents and elders.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Beloved wolf character is killed by warlock and eaten by birds, causing grief to other characters. Threats to kill all. Infant heart set in ice.
  • Sex:

    True love expressed between main character and young man; kissing on hand as greeting.
  • Language:

    Not an issue.
  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About The Legend of Holly Claus

Parents need to know that an evil warlock kills a beloved character and threatens to kill not only the main character but all loved ones associated. There's also young love, harmlessly illustrated through fluttering eyelashes and breathy dialogue. Holly and friends meet a Jewish family who share Hanukkah as another holiday observed during this time.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the main character and how the book says she possesses the "purest heart." Though dutiful and highly moral, she is also impatient and strong-willed. How does she show these limitations? Do these qualities make her more likable? Obviously it is a fantasy, but how is she relatable in her lonely isolation or wish to find her path in life? Which characters stand out and why? Also being a book about Christmas, families can talk about holidays and how they are observed through different traditions.

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Our Members Say

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See all 6 member reviews

Most Recent Reviews

  1. I rate this title on for age 7 and give it 4.0
    • My highlights are:
    • Positive messages
    • Good role models

    Perfect for ages 7-12

    Holly is a great role model for kids ages 7-14! She's very optimistic, has a great attitude, and will do anything for the ones close to her. I loved this book, but some children may be a little creeped about the villain. Another off is that it's a little long and some parts can be a little dry. Peace.

  2. Teen Reviewer Age 16
    Lives in Pennsylvania
    I rate this title on for age 9 and give it 5.0

    THE BEST CHRISTMAS BOOK EVER!

    I read this book every year for Christmas, which has been four or five years now. It is such a powerful, beautiful story, and so well written. I can't begin to describe how much I enjoyed it. I highly recommend this book; it's probably my favorite. There is no sex. There is one or two uses of d-mn, and one use of God's name in vain. There is some violence, but it's not very graphic. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS STORY

  3. Teen Reviewer Age 16
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

  4. Teen Reviewer Age 14
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

    A must read book for all ages!

    This book was amazing!!!!!!!!!! The writing was terrific! good use of words. Good plot. Nice story Line. The Britney Ryan deserves a hugh pat on the back and a big round of aplause! Good job!

  5. Teen Reviewer Age 15
    Lives in California
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

    A Worthwile Read

    An utterly charming and heartwarming fantasy... a worthwile read.

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