This was such a fun, whimsical, and entertaining story. I had both the audiobook and the physical paperback, which had illustrations throughout the book. So I did a tandem reading and loved it. Actor Stephen Fry was the narrator, and he did a phenomenal job. It was one of my favorite audiobooks of the year. I loved all of his different voices for various characters. It made me laugh and chuckle so much while he read the book. He’s a very talented actor and voiceover artist. Highly recommend the audiobook!

I had seen the movie on Netflix but didn’t remember most of it, so it was like hearing the story again for the first time. It was well-written but definitely reads like a middle grade book and has some juvenile humor that kids will love, maybe not so much for adults. But it was a funny and unique story about the origins of Santa Claus (or Father Christmas). 

It was a bit dark and heavy at the beginning. It felt a little mature for young kids, but then, as the story progresses, it gets more whimsical and outlandish, especially once Nikolas finds the elves in the woods as he’s looking for his father. Nikolas is an easy character to love and root for. His life has been rough, but he still has such a positive attitude. I loved the messages about good and bad, kindness, friendship, believing in yourself, and believing in magic. It was such an enchanting story! 

I have the entire trilogy and plan to continue it next year. Carey Mulligan narrates the second book, so I’m excited to listen to that audiobook next Christmas season. Definitely recommend!