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The True Story of Christmas

(2003, Fiction - Holiday, Written by Anne Fine)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 8, age appropriate for kids over 9; suggested age 9.

  • Is it any good?

    5.0

  • Common Sense says

    The ultimate dysfunctional family Christmas.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 9 and Up

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Almost everyone behaves badly. The humor is sarcastic; some bathroom humor as well.

  • Violence:

    Not an issue.

  • Sex:

    Not an issue.

  • Language:

    A few mild expletives.

  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About The True Story of Christmas

Parents need to know that the author is having a good time here with an exaggeratedly awful family holiday, but you might want to emphasize, as she does not, the love that underlies all the bickering.

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Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about past holiday gatherings and some of the moments -- good and bad -- that made them memorable. What is it about the season that seems to bring out the best -- and sometimes worst -- in people?
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