A misfit elf must go on an adventure through the arctic wilderness where he faces harsh weather, wild animals, and even goblins, all in an effort to retrieve a rare gemstone that will restore energy to Santa's Winter Workshop.
For centuries, elves at at the North Pole have built millions of toys for Santa to deliver to good children all around the world. Year after year, things have run smoothly. That is, until one Christmas when an elf named Zach accidentally breaks the Divine Reactor... the main device that powers Santa's entire winter workshop!
With only 48 hours till Christmas, Santa sends Zach on a perilous mission to the peak of Mount Frostbite where the little elf must recover a rare gemstone that is key to restoring the Divine Reactor. Zach must brave the harsh arctic environment that is filled with wild animals, severe weather, and even evil goblins. In the end, Zach will be forced to make an ultimate decision that will remind even Santa of the true meaning of Christmas.
"A Tale for Christmas - Zach's Quest" is a Christian adventure that follows the classic storytelling tradition of Rankin Bass films. Both children and their parents will enjoy the action-packed storyline that is filled with memorable characters, plot twists, and a strong moral message. And since the book comes in at exactly 24 chapters, it's the perfect countdown to Christmas!
This magical Christmas adventure includes 30 amazing illustrations by veteran Disney artist, Jeffrey Varab.
Professional Reviews
Christian Book Notes
There is much in this book to be loved and enjoyed by the reader. At first blush, a story about Christmas and Santa and elves does not seem to be conducive to keeping Christ in Christmas as the cliche goes. Matt does an excellent job of showing how “Christmas is more than just presents” (stated by Santa on p. 46). At another point in the book, we get a picture of Santa praying to Christ. In essence, Matt has written a timeless tale of the beauty that is the spirit of Christmas. It is not only captivating for children, but adults as well.
If there is one criticism it would be the changing of the voice in the middle of the book. This was done intentionallya la Burl Ives. The book begins with the omnipotent perspective as most stories do and then moves to the more personal level in order to give the reader a feel for the struggle of the main character. Mission Accomplished, Matt!
Recommendation
If you are looking for a fun read that offers some teachable moments and life-lessons, then A Tale for Christmas is worth your time and money. As I stated earlier, kids and adults will enjoy this read. It may even make for a great family read aloud in December. At 24 chapters, you could start on 1 December and finish on Christmas Eve.
Santa Claus - North Pole Alaska
I enjoyed reading your book, A Tale for Christmas - Zach's Quest! Great adventure with a solid Christian message!
A short story of mine was included in an anthology of short fiction by fourteen of Port Town Publishing Company's authors. It is out of print and no longer available except as a download. Contact me at charlenetess@yahoo.com if you want it.
