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Ho Ho Ho! A Pirate's Christmas for Me
The origin story of Santa Claus - with a pirate twist!
Nic and Kris Beard are twins, but they couldn’t be more different. Nic is naughty while Kris is nice. When Nic steals Kris’s necklace, Kris falls overboard and washes up on an island full of woodworking elves. Years later, sad and lonely, Nic finds his brother. Together, Nic and Kris learn love and acceptance - and discover that they are a little bit magical …
Nic and Kris Beard are twins, but they couldn’t be more different. Nic is naughty while Kris is nice. When Nic steals Kris’s necklace, Kris falls overboard and washes up on an island full of woodworking elves. Years later, sad and lonely, Nic finds his brother. Together, Nic and Kris learn love and acceptance - and discover that they are a little bit magical …
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Published October 26, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 7, 2023
I love when picture books take the traditional way that we think about Christmas and puts a creative spin on these traditions. I think this type of creativity can just add to the wonder and magic of Christmas for smaller children. I love that Santa/Saint Nicholas is a pirate in this book! Who would have ever thought. This is a great way to get little minds thinking outside of the box!
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November 16, 2024See my full review here: https://www.yabookscentral.com/ho-ho-...
HO HO HO! A PIRATE'S CHRISTMAS FOR ME is a cute and rhyming picture book about the origin of Santa Claus. The two pirate brothers Beard, Nic and Kris, sail the seas together on their ship. When Kris finds a special necklace, Nic makes him walk the plank and leaves him behind in the ocean. Luckily, Kris finds his way to the ice where an elf makes him a nice cocoa, and he stays to teach the elves how to repair their sleighs and make toys.
When they are old, Nic regrets the things he has done and sets out to find Kris. He finds where Kris has been living and apologies, and the magic of the necklace begins to make things fly. They share the cheer by bringing toys around the world.
What I loved: This is a clever new Christmas origin story, and the rhyming text was really fun throughout. The illustrations are fantastic with lots of detail and color, and the characters really leap off the pages. For kids who love pirates and Christmas, this is sure to be a hit!
The holiday is not discussed, with the book covering the newly imagined origin of Santa Claus, meeting the elves and reindeer and making toys. This is quite a unique take on the character, with the two brothers manifesting the beloved Santa. The themes of forgiveness and kindness are great for young readers.
What left me wanting more: As a small thing, I was a bit troubled by the way the brothers turned on each other, especially leaving one behind to fight for survival in the water (though this was not stated in such terms). That being said, this did not seem to faze the children who listened to the story- and Nic does see the error of his ways and go to apologize and make things right.
Final verdict: HO HO HO! A PIRATE'S CHRISTMAS FOR ME is a unique new holiday story that combines rhyming and the spirit of the season into an enchanting new tale.
Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
HO HO HO! A PIRATE'S CHRISTMAS FOR ME is a cute and rhyming picture book about the origin of Santa Claus. The two pirate brothers Beard, Nic and Kris, sail the seas together on their ship. When Kris finds a special necklace, Nic makes him walk the plank and leaves him behind in the ocean. Luckily, Kris finds his way to the ice where an elf makes him a nice cocoa, and he stays to teach the elves how to repair their sleighs and make toys.
When they are old, Nic regrets the things he has done and sets out to find Kris. He finds where Kris has been living and apologies, and the magic of the necklace begins to make things fly. They share the cheer by bringing toys around the world.
What I loved: This is a clever new Christmas origin story, and the rhyming text was really fun throughout. The illustrations are fantastic with lots of detail and color, and the characters really leap off the pages. For kids who love pirates and Christmas, this is sure to be a hit!
The holiday is not discussed, with the book covering the newly imagined origin of Santa Claus, meeting the elves and reindeer and making toys. This is quite a unique take on the character, with the two brothers manifesting the beloved Santa. The themes of forgiveness and kindness are great for young readers.
What left me wanting more: As a small thing, I was a bit troubled by the way the brothers turned on each other, especially leaving one behind to fight for survival in the water (though this was not stated in such terms). That being said, this did not seem to faze the children who listened to the story- and Nic does see the error of his ways and go to apologize and make things right.
Final verdict: HO HO HO! A PIRATE'S CHRISTMAS FOR ME is a unique new holiday story that combines rhyming and the spirit of the season into an enchanting new tale.
Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
December 1, 2023
Thank you so much to Sweet Cherry Publishing and Netgalley for the ebook to read and review.
Nic and Kris were very different pirates but they were brothers Beard and together they sailed the seas. Kris finds a glowing necklace that Nic must have so he sends him overboard. But hen Kris finds a very special place to live his life.
This was such a unique tale of Christmas and of Santa and I really enjoyed this so much, so whimsical but it actually worked so well. Them both being pirate brothers who get separated during a disagreement, then Kris finds an Icey island filled with elves and he finds his new place for life.
It was really sweet that many years later, Nic finally realises what he did wrong and goes to find his brother, the glowing necklace still with him and together they create a wonderful legacy, helping grant many wishes and deliver many toys.
I was surprised how much I enjoyed this book, it was so sweet and so much fun, it was so unique and different to pretty much any other Christmas book out there. If you have a pirate lover then around the holidays they will adore reading this book. It has some really lovely illustrations throughout that are so much fun to look at, it’s an easy and fun story of a brotherly bond, a pirates life and becoming Santa.
Nic and Kris were very different pirates but they were brothers Beard and together they sailed the seas. Kris finds a glowing necklace that Nic must have so he sends him overboard. But hen Kris finds a very special place to live his life.
This was such a unique tale of Christmas and of Santa and I really enjoyed this so much, so whimsical but it actually worked so well. Them both being pirate brothers who get separated during a disagreement, then Kris finds an Icey island filled with elves and he finds his new place for life.
It was really sweet that many years later, Nic finally realises what he did wrong and goes to find his brother, the glowing necklace still with him and together they create a wonderful legacy, helping grant many wishes and deliver many toys.
I was surprised how much I enjoyed this book, it was so sweet and so much fun, it was so unique and different to pretty much any other Christmas book out there. If you have a pirate lover then around the holidays they will adore reading this book. It has some really lovely illustrations throughout that are so much fun to look at, it’s an easy and fun story of a brotherly bond, a pirates life and becoming Santa.
December 16, 2023
Ahoy, me hearties! Join the brothers Beard as they discover love, acceptance, and magic.
Nic and Kris Beard are twins with different personalities. When naughty Nic steals his brother’s necklace, Kris falls overboard, washing up on an island of woodworking elves. Years later, Nic goes out in search of his brother, which leads to some magical happenings.
Ho! Ho! Ho! A Pirate’s Christmas for Me by Red is a delightful Kris Kringle/Saint Nick origin story. A fun, rhyming tale of twin brothers who are polar opposites, when they reunite they decide to use their magic to spread joy across the world.
The colorful illustrations by Jack Button bring this story to life. Your child will enjoy turning page after page to get a glimpse of the Beard brothers’ ship, the frosty and snowy island of elves, and a few reindeer.
I love when an author is so creative and imagines a unique story for well-known characters. Ho! Ho! Ho! A Pirate’s Christmas for Me is exactly that. With its zany artwork and well-rhymed lines, youngsters will enjoy this book time and again.
Nic and Kris Beard are twins with different personalities. When naughty Nic steals his brother’s necklace, Kris falls overboard, washing up on an island of woodworking elves. Years later, Nic goes out in search of his brother, which leads to some magical happenings.
Ho! Ho! Ho! A Pirate’s Christmas for Me by Red is a delightful Kris Kringle/Saint Nick origin story. A fun, rhyming tale of twin brothers who are polar opposites, when they reunite they decide to use their magic to spread joy across the world.
The colorful illustrations by Jack Button bring this story to life. Your child will enjoy turning page after page to get a glimpse of the Beard brothers’ ship, the frosty and snowy island of elves, and a few reindeer.
I love when an author is so creative and imagines a unique story for well-known characters. Ho! Ho! Ho! A Pirate’s Christmas for Me is exactly that. With its zany artwork and well-rhymed lines, youngsters will enjoy this book time and again.
December 21, 2024
Twin brothers Nic and Kris love to sail the sea on their ship. But one day, Kris falls overboard and Nic leaves him behind. Finding himself on an island of elves, he falls into the roll of helping them make toys and they teach him all they know. Nic eventually grows bored of traveling alone, so he seeks out his brother. Reunited, the two come together to make Christmas magical and special for everyone.
HO HO HO A PIRATES CHRISTMAS FOR ME is a unique Santa Claus origin story that is perfect for children who love pirates. Nic is definitely the twin who likes to misbehave and Kris is the kinder soul. The two are like hot and cold with their personalities, but I like how everything comes together in the end. The illustrations are rich with color and encompass the joyful spirit of Christmas along with the adventurous spirit of a pirate.
Final Verdict: I would recommend this to children aged four and older as a Christmas present for young readers. It's a unique perspective on how Santa came to be and will delight children who love adventure on the seas.
HO HO HO A PIRATES CHRISTMAS FOR ME is a unique Santa Claus origin story that is perfect for children who love pirates. Nic is definitely the twin who likes to misbehave and Kris is the kinder soul. The two are like hot and cold with their personalities, but I like how everything comes together in the end. The illustrations are rich with color and encompass the joyful spirit of Christmas along with the adventurous spirit of a pirate.
Final Verdict: I would recommend this to children aged four and older as a Christmas present for young readers. It's a unique perspective on how Santa came to be and will delight children who love adventure on the seas.
November 9, 2023
Very well-rhymed, this story of doing the right thing is actually quite a fine narrative verse for youngsters. The baddie pirate (boo!) steals a gem from his goodie pirate brother, and makes him walk the plank – double boo! But the goodie pirate (yay!) washes up at the North Pole, has cocoa from a passing elf with no thought of stranger danger, and sets to having as good a time of it as he can, helping his new friends and so on. But things would be a lot more Christmassy – for all of us – if the baddie (boo!) can be persuaded to turn good – could that possibly happen?
Yes, a pirate-themed Christmas book doesn’t seem naturally fitting, but let’s face it, we get enough pirates around panto time, that two more won’t make much difference. And this isn’t really as broad as that reference or this review will have you think – it’s not able to pause in its brisk telling to thump any message home, or be cloyingly Christmassy. I think it’s quite classy as a result – a good four stars.
Yes, a pirate-themed Christmas book doesn’t seem naturally fitting, but let’s face it, we get enough pirates around panto time, that two more won’t make much difference. And this isn’t really as broad as that reference or this review will have you think – it’s not able to pause in its brisk telling to thump any message home, or be cloyingly Christmassy. I think it’s quite classy as a result – a good four stars.
December 10, 2024
Do you want to know a secret? Santa’s globe-trotting Christmas Eve journey isn’t all reindeer and chimneys—it’s PIRATE business! 🏴☠️
I had so much fun watching my 5-year-old dive into "Ho Ho Ho! A Pirate's Christmas for Me". With the included audiobook, he could follow along independently—and let me tell you, hearing the swashbuckling narrator had us both cracking up! 🎧
This story turns the classic Christmas adventure on its head with a hilarious pirate twist. And the illustrations? So adorable! Every page is a vibrant feast for the eyes, with plenty of cheeky pirate details to discover.
As a mom, it’s a win-win: my kiddo is engaged, building reading confidence, and working his way through a book that’s as entertaining as it is festive. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or someone who loves gifting unique stories, this one will have you saying “Arrr, matey!” in no time. 🎅
#Partner - Thank you PubSpotlight for sending us this treasure.
I had so much fun watching my 5-year-old dive into "Ho Ho Ho! A Pirate's Christmas for Me". With the included audiobook, he could follow along independently—and let me tell you, hearing the swashbuckling narrator had us both cracking up! 🎧
This story turns the classic Christmas adventure on its head with a hilarious pirate twist. And the illustrations? So adorable! Every page is a vibrant feast for the eyes, with plenty of cheeky pirate details to discover.
As a mom, it’s a win-win: my kiddo is engaged, building reading confidence, and working his way through a book that’s as entertaining as it is festive. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or someone who loves gifting unique stories, this one will have you saying “Arrr, matey!” in no time. 🎅
#Partner - Thank you PubSpotlight for sending us this treasure.
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November 30, 2023I just want to thank Sweet Cherry Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read. I know the review is a bit late but life got in the way.
I absolutely loved this story a unique twist on the legendary Kris Kringle and Saint Nicholas. One who is mean and jealous let that behavior get the best of him and separated him and his brother. Well for a while they lived two separate lives but in the end it all worked out for the better…One thing I love about the book other the the story was the illustration it was vivid and bright
I absolutely loved this story a unique twist on the legendary Kris Kringle and Saint Nicholas. One who is mean and jealous let that behavior get the best of him and separated him and his brother. Well for a while they lived two separate lives but in the end it all worked out for the better…One thing I love about the book other the the story was the illustration it was vivid and bright
November 18, 2024
Ho Ho Ho! A Pirate's Christmas For Me is a captivating, action-packed, fun, lighthearted, imaginative, and whimsical read! This gorgeous book has the most unexpected twist! I love this creative telling of how Santa came to be a who he is. This book captures sibling love, highlights the true treasure of life (hint being with those you love and showing them kindness), and is simply an enjoyable story! This tale of one naughty pirate brother, one nice pirate brother, and their joyous reunion years after beytral is also a story of Christmas magic! I love it!
December 22, 2023
Pirate brothers Kris and Nic are as different as night and day. After a fight they become separated, and Kris ends up in a cold climate surrounded by elves, while Nic vows to scour the seven seas to find his missing sibling.
Filled with piratey-goodness, this yarn makes for a yo-ho-holly-jolly holiday tale, made even more delightful by the terrific artwork by Jack Button.
Thanks to NetGalley and Sweet Cherry Publishing for sharing.
Filled with piratey-goodness, this yarn makes for a yo-ho-holly-jolly holiday tale, made even more delightful by the terrific artwork by Jack Button.
Thanks to NetGalley and Sweet Cherry Publishing for sharing.
September 24, 2024
I really enjoyed this story!
This book was really fun, I loved the plot and it had brilliant illustrations that brought the book to life.
The book was well written and it was easy to follow, it had a great flow and the layout was perfect - the text size was great and it was a pleasure to read.
The characters in the book are great, they work well together and apart - I loved the ending.
It is 5 stars from me for this one - very highly recommended!
This book was really fun, I loved the plot and it had brilliant illustrations that brought the book to life.
The book was well written and it was easy to follow, it had a great flow and the layout was perfect - the text size was great and it was a pleasure to read.
The characters in the book are great, they work well together and apart - I loved the ending.
It is 5 stars from me for this one - very highly recommended!
January 21, 2024
Christmas, pirates and acceptance, the perfect story combination!
Nic and Kris Beard are twins but they couldn't be more different...
This is the perfect rhyming book. The illustrations by Jack Button bring this beautifully written story to life. It also helps little ones who ask the question "how can Santa be in two places at once?"
Nic and Kris Beard are twins but they couldn't be more different...
This is the perfect rhyming book. The illustrations by Jack Button bring this beautifully written story to life. It also helps little ones who ask the question "how can Santa be in two places at once?"
March 18, 2025
🏴☠️The two Beard brothers are different as can be. When Nic forces Kris to walk the plank, Kris starts a new life with the help of some friends. Can the two reunite for the season of giving? It even includes a code for the audio telling.
November 28, 2023
ARC reader for NetGalley
A unique and piratey twist on how Santa came to be. Nighty and nice, Nic & Kris. There’s elf’s and reindeer and don’t forget the hot cocoa! An enjoyable holiday read.
A unique and piratey twist on how Santa came to be. Nighty and nice, Nic & Kris. There’s elf’s and reindeer and don’t forget the hot cocoa! An enjoyable holiday read.
December 6, 2023
This is such a creative take on the origin story of Santa Claus. The illustrations are well done and really add to the story on every page.
December 24, 2023
A fun picture book with beautiful illustrations and rhymed little poems telling a different story about Santa. Very cute.
February 9, 2024
What a cute, Christmasy Pirate book. The rhyming was catchy and made the story excited for my young kids to listen to. We loved the illustrations and the twist on the traditional story of Santa.
March 23, 2024
This is a very fun, unique, Christmas story. If you have a child who likes Pirates this is the perfect holiday book to get them laughing.
November 8, 2023
This clever story takes the legends of Kris Kringle and Saint Nicholas and mixes them into a Fractured Folktale Retelling. The two brothers Beard are pirates, and they are very different from each other. Kris is gentle and kind and his brother Nic is mean and jealous. The catchy rhymes and bright pictures will entertain youngsters and have you rethinking the stories of Santa. I received this book from Sweet Cherry Publishing through NetGalley and I am pleased to recommend it to families with young children.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews