A Boy Called Christmas

Published May 9, 2001 by Canongate Books Ltd.

ISBN:
978-1-78211-789-6
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5 stars (2 reviews)

Eleven-year-old Nikolas nicknamed Christmas has received only one toy in his life: a doll carved out of a turnip. But he s happy with his turnip doll, because it came from his parents, who love him. Then one day his father goes missing, and Nikolas must travel to the North Pole to save him. Along the way, Nikolas befriends a surly reindeer, bests a troublesome troll, and discovers a hidden world of enchantment in the frozen village of Elfhelm. But the elves of Elfhelm have troubles of their own: Christmas spirit and goodwill are at an all-time low, and Nikolas may be the only person who can fix things if only he can reach his father before it s too late.

7 editions

Review of 'A boy called Christmas' on 'Storygraph'

4 stars

A Boy Called Christmas was a delightful fantasy story. It really had a Roald Dahl feel to it. The beginning especially felt very Matilda/Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

I liked that it wasn’t one of those Santa stories about “saving Christmas”. Christmas is already a thing, and the main character loves it despite coming from a poor family and rarely getting presents. The story didn't suggest that he was connected to the historical figure of Saint Nicholas either. It was a very British style Father Christmas, despite the main character being from Finland.

A Boy Called Christmas was just a great, magical fantasy story with a unique fantasy origin for "Father Christmas" with elves, reindeer, and lots of heart.

I needed something with an audio version to listen to while I drove to do a store pickup, and also while I wrapped presents. As I looked at the choices, I …

Review of 'A Boy Called Christmas' on 'Goodreads'

5 stars

Impossible - an old Elf swear word.

A Boy Called Christmas is the epitome of a wonderful Christmas tale and one that everyone who loves Christmas and magic in general will adore.

With magical characters including trolls, elves, pixies and of course, reindeer, A Boy Called Christmas is for the most part, a wonderfully fun tale with a few moments of sadness that just make the joyous parts all the more pure. There's a kidnapping, lots of elves with the most diverse of personalities, tons of beautiful snow a little boy called Nicholas who despite all that has hurt him? Believes in magic and the hope it gives you.


This is a story I wish I had when I was a child, because I love magic - and the joy it gives you to believe in the possibility of more. An origin story of Father Christmas that is unique and …