“The Christmas Stick” is a fresh new story about a jaded young prince who receives more Christmas gifts than he needs or wants, except for one mysterious gift, a stick from his grandmother. AT first the prince is bored by the stick, unable to fathom its use as a toy or a gift. Then he gets inspiration from a visiting cousin: the stick can become whatever he imagines! It can be a shepherd’s crook, an oar, a spear, a trumpet, even a snake to wrestle with! In the end, the gift of the stick is treasured by the spoiled young prince, for it allows him to nourish his imagination, which in turn, leads him to become aware of others, and the need to return generosity by giving to them. The touching ending scene of “The Christmas Stick” is a culmination of the perfect gift sharing experience: watching a child grow and learn to care for others. —Midwest Book Review
