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The Cat Who Ate Christmas

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A funny, heart-warming Christmas story about one little kitten and a very big turkey! It's Christmas, and everyone in the Hudson family is very excited - including their kitten. First he knocks the Christmas tree over, then he shreds the presents, and finally he eats the entire Christmas turkey! Mum gets cross, and the kitten runs away. But when he doesn't come back, the Hudson family have to venture out on Christmas Day to find their naughty kitten. Can they have a merry Christmas after all? This gorgeous book is illustrated in two-colour throughout, with a special section at the back for Christmas facts, jokes, craft activities and recipes. The kitten in this story will be named by one lucky reader, via a competition hosted by the Reading Zone. Check this space for the big reveal!

96 pages, Paperback

Published October 6, 2016

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Lil Chase

10 books18 followers

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5 stars
51 (28%)
4 stars
73 (40%)
3 stars
48 (26%)
2 stars
5 (2%)
1 star
2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
Profile Image for Mischenko.
1,035 reviews92 followers
December 26, 2018
This is a fun, short story about a cat named Jingles who seems to keep getting into mischief. Jingles trashes the tree and decorations while the family is left to deal with it. I was glad the family were understanding with Jingles and not overly aggressive, although they did still get angry. I have to wonder why the family would leave the house with a turkey sitting on the table. I mean, if that isn't an open invitation for Jingles to dig in, I don't know what is! This is a cute story, but doesn't have much of a lesson. We did enjoy the illustrations and the activities in the back.

3.5 stars
Profile Image for Starjustin.
92 reviews278 followers
December 26, 2018
I loved the theme this book detailed throughout involving a very close knit family, a 'naughty' cat, and what Christmas day really means even if all does not go well. A great teaching lesson for children and adults as well.
I give 5 stars to most children's books because the majority teach life lessons we all need to learn and adhere to. I highly recommend this one.
Profile Image for Jerry (Rebel With a Massive Media Library).
4,929 reviews94 followers
December 19, 2021
Stories like this warm my heart, because they remind me of my now-late feline companion, Roberta. I miss her, and think about her often; I'm just glad I got to spend two decades with her.
Profile Image for Carla.
8,137 reviews190 followers
April 3, 2018
This is a fun read for a Christmas library, especially if the family has a cat. Cats are known to wreak havoc with Christmas trees, and Jingles is no slouch. When the family goes to sleep, he climbs the tree, ruins the decorations and somehow, even opens the presents. When he is left home alone with the turkey settling on the counter, he is enticed by the smells. Once again, cats can jump and when the family returns home with grandma, the turkey is pretty well gone. When he disappears, the family is worried he ran away because he got in trouble. The family frantically search for their wayward kitten. A fun story, but I think this family needs to train this kitten better, or keep it corralled when they are not home. The back of the book has some fun activities to do based on things from the story. The children are typical kids, who love their pet, yet still get upset when it messes everything up. Cute black and white illustrations are scattered throughout the book. This book would be a good read aloud but younger readers (7 or 8) may be able to read it independently. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
Profile Image for Ronyell.
991 reviews338 followers
April 24, 2018
I would like to thank NetGalley and RP Kids for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

So, I was browsing for more books on NetGalley again and I stumbled upon a children’s book that had a pretty interesting title, which was called “The Cat Who Ate Christmas” which is written by Lil Chase along with artwork by Thomas Docherty and of course, I had to pick this book up for the title alone!

It is Christmas and the Hudson family are celebrating the holidays with activities such as decorating their tree and cooking a big and delicious turkey! Unfortunately, Jingles, the family cat, is being extremely naughty this Christmas as he destroys the family’s Christmas decorations and ends up eating the family turkey! Of course, everyone in the family gets cross with Jingles and this causes Jingles to run away from home!

Can the Hudson family find Jingles or will their Christmas be ruined?

Read this book to find out!


Lil Chase did a great job at writing this book as this book turned out way differently than what I had expected! I must admit that when I first saw the title of this book, I thought that the cat in this book actually did ate Christmas or at least ate everything that dealt with Christmas! But, when I actually started reading this book, I found out that the title of this book was more in a metaphorical sense than what I had originally thought and it made the title of this book such an interesting concept for a simple family mishap! I loved the fact that Lil Chase made the Hudson family into such a caring and loving family as they might get a bit annoyed by Jingles’ antics, but they do truly care about Jingles in the end. I also enjoyed the scenes of the family members setting up their decorations for Christmas as it made the book so relatable to me as my family and I love to hang up the decorations for Christmas every year and this book made me wish that Christmas was actually here already! Thomas Docherty’s artwork is highly creative as the artwork is done mainly in two colors, which are blue and glitter (at least in the edition I got). I loved the way that the items done in glittering colors really stood out in the artwork as they bring out the importance of the items in the story, such as the turkey and the Christmas decorations.

The reason why I gave this book a four-star rating was because I felt that the pacing of this book was a bit slow at times and there were times where I tried to speed through this book to get to the more intriguing parts of the book.

Overall, “The Cat Who Ate Christmas” is a truly humorous and cute book that children who want to read books about Christmas or who want to read books about naughty pets will easily enjoy! I would recommend this book to children ages five and up since there is nothing inappropriate in this book.

Review is also on: Rabbit Ears Book Blog

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Profile Image for Christine.
201 reviews24 followers
March 28, 2018
The Cat Who Ate Christmas is a cute Christmas story for children. I would give this Christmas children’s book by Lil Chase 4 stars. I read it to my 3 and almost 5 year old daughters who LOOOOVE all things Christmas. I think an older age group would be a bit more appropriate for this story, my three year olds attention began to wane about 1/3 of the way through. My kids both got a kick out of the kids getting their teeth checked and having to brush again which is a common theme in our home.

Pros- interracial couple, no matter what disaster the cat caused the family still enjoyed Christmas, I loved the additional facts, recipe, and angel craft that tied in with the story- what a fun bonus and I am positive we will be doing these cute tie-ins with the book around Christmas.

Cons- I felt the story could have had a few more lines to have a better flow and make the time frame more clear for little ones.

Thank you Running Press Kids, an imprint of Perseus Books and NetGalley for giving me a copy of The Cat Who Ate Christmas in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Veronica.
765 reviews18 followers
June 9, 2019
The Cat Who Ate Christmas is a cute Christmas book with Jingles the mischievous cat as the main character. Jingles manages to ruin a Christmas tree, shred presents, and eat turkey intended for his human family. The deeper theme here is patience and forgiveness but children will love the Jingles antics. The drawings accompanying the book are amazing.
Profile Image for Nostalgia Reader.
812 reviews69 followers
April 21, 2018
A cute story about Jingles, a mischievous cat who gets into quite a bit of trouble and almost ruins Christmas! While there wasn’t a whole lot of substance to the plot, it was still a quick read (or read-a-long) for the holiday season, especially for those families who have a pet cat and can likely relate to some of the crazy mischief. There’s no overarching lessons to be taught (although forgiveness for getting into trouble is certainly something to take away from this), it’s just a fun read! The illustrations in my review copy weren’t final, but they compliment the plot perfectly and encourage kids who are reading to pay close attention and see if they can figure out the mystery of where Jingles is.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free copy to review!

(Cross posted on my blog.)
Profile Image for Jayasree B.
360 reviews32 followers
June 4, 2018
Once in a while, one has to make time to read a children's book. It is a different sort of fun.

This book is about a li'l kitten, Jingles, that manages to get into things and places, it shouldn't. And eventually disappears, setting the family on a hunt to locate jingles. I loved how this is a family story, and of course the kitten itself. It is always great to read a book that reminds me of my own childhood reading.

Loved it.

For more book reviews, visit Frost At Midnite.
Profile Image for Cherry London.
Author 1 book86 followers
March 26, 2018
This cat’s name needs to change from Jingles to Mayhem, he gets into some of the most mischievous situations ever, causing lots of trouble for Alex, Lily, Rose and yes even their parents too. He gets away with his naughty behavior cause they love him to bits. In my opinion, they need to take him to the cat whisperer, he needs some training or is it the family that needs the training, whatever, I find it annoying. This is an amusing and interesting fun read, that has educative fun facts at the back, and a lesson in dealing with mischievous family pets. I know the lesson is in there somewhere, haha, but hey, kids just have fun reading, it is a laughable and enjoyable tale.
3,334 reviews37 followers
March 29, 2018
I could sooo relate to this story! I have cats and for a long while, every Christmas, my tree ended up laying on the floor! No turkey at Christmas, but I have to fend off cats every Thanksgiving as I fix the bird (and the cats are SURE I am destroying it!). Cat owners and their kids will surely enjoy this tale of Jingles and his family! Illustrations were wonderful!

I received a Kindle Arc in exchange for a fair review from Netgalley.
Profile Image for Paula.
1,357 reviews13 followers
March 27, 2018
This is a cute book about a very mischievous cat named Jingles. He is in a loving family but oh my, it is Christmas and there are a number of new things to get into!

I also have a cat who is a real challenge at Christmas so this was a fun read for me. Very cute and one I will read to my grandchildren. I read this for an honest review from Netgalley.
Profile Image for Nicole (bookwyrm).
1,440 reviews4 followers
December 7, 2019
Really cute chapter book (I think?) about a naughty kitten who makes a mess at Christmastime, and the family who loves him. We've had cats who were like that in their kitten days.
Profile Image for Wilde Sky.
Author 16 books39 followers
February 16, 2017
A cat causes havoc at Christmas.

I thought this was a sweet story for children with reasonable illustrations.
Profile Image for Daniel.
2,901 reviews48 followers
October 16, 2018
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 3.0 of 5

The Hudson family is looking forward to enjoying their Christmas, but their curious cat, Jingles, is exploring Christmas just the way any feline might. First, there's the Christmas tree, with its shiny ornaments and attractive lights that needs to be explored. But the poor cat didn't expect a tree to actually come crashing down! And the decorations around the house ... a series of toys for a cat, right? And why would you cook a Christmas turkey and leave it on the counter if it wasn't meant to be eaten by a cat?

Jingles threatens to ruin Christmas for the Hudson family. They get mighty upset with the cat, but when Jingles is missing, the family forget about the destruction the cat caused knowing that a happy Christmas means everyone being together...including the cat.

The story is cute - easily the sort of book I could see reading to/with young children at Christmas time ... especially if the family has a cat. But it's not the sort of book that would get multiple readings during the season. The story is just a little bit over the top for me. A family with a cat like this should clearly know better than to leave a cooked turkey out in the open - they kind of deserved to have it eaten for not thinking a little more about it.

Thomas Docherty's art is pleasant and serves the story. I very much liked that this was a mixed-race family by appearance, though nothing was ever said about it. It's the sort of thing that will either be taken in stride (as it should be), or prompt some questions from youngsters which is a great way to open dialog/discussion about families and race.

Looking for a good book? The Cat Who Ate Christmas is a cute story by Lil Chase with delightful art by Thomas Docherty that will entertain youngsters, but likely won't be often requested for repeat readings.

I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Anna W. .
616 reviews24 followers
April 17, 2018
So, first it should be noted that I love cats, even cats who repeatedly topple Christmas trees and eat whole, cooked turkeys.

As such, I loved The Cat Who Ate Christmas. I wish this book had been around when my son was little because I imagine he would have cackled and grinned over the illustrations and the lost kitten, Jingles.

Jingles is, as one can guess, a naughty kitten. She knocks over the Christmas tree, rips and ruins beautifully wrapped gifts, and--as noted--eats a whole cooked turkey (obviously this is a fictional tale). The story is adorable, and the adventure of the kitten is definitely humorous. Cat owners will love the story, and kids will definitely laugh at Jingles' absurd behaviors.

As an adult, my favorite part of the book is the biracial family. The father is white, and the mother is black; the children are, clearly, of mixed race. It is important for kids to see their own ethnicities in their children books, and I don't think that I've read one like this before.

It is a Christmas book, so it'll apply to Christian religions, but I don't see any reason why Jewish or Muslim families still could not read the story and enjoy the plot. Church is not discussed, just the holiday itself. It is more about the misadventures of the kitten and loving the kitten anyway than about any religion or race. Definitely a great book for kids and parents alike.

**Also, at the end there are cool Christmas facts that aren't all about the religion, more about cultural traditions in different countries. Great conversation starters for readers and listeners!
Profile Image for Summer.
31 reviews2 followers
May 15, 2018
Jingles is a feisty kitten! Some of his favorite pastimes include climbing the Christmas tree and unwrapping his families’ Christmas gifts. Luckily for him, Jingles has a very loving and understanding family. Mom, Dad, Alex, Lily, and Rose all love him and are always quick to forgive his transgressions; that is until the day of Christmas dinner, when the family leaves the turkey to cool on the counter while they go to pick up grandma. Jingles cannot resist the delicious smell so he sniffs, leaps, and pounces onto the counter and eats, and eats, and eats some more — until the turkey is completely gone!

When the family returns and discovers that Jingles ate Christmas, the kitten quickly finds a hiding spot, fearing the worst — but his family doesn’t get mad, not really — and when they can’t find him, they realize just how much they miss him even though, sometimes, he can be naughty.

The Cat Who Ate Christmas is an adorable children’s classic that not only embraces the Christmas spirit, but also conveys the essence of teamwork, forgiveness, tolerance, and understanding. Moreover, the stunning illustrations paint a picture of a loving interracial family who embraces their furry companion with lots of compassion, kindness, and love.
Profile Image for Jessica.
810 reviews43 followers
June 3, 2018
This is a fun story set on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and features a kitten named Jingles that just keeps causing trouble! Any cat owner will identify with this book and the illustrations are great and will keep the kids entertained.

Though set at Christmas ( the story shows the children’s excitement of Christmas), the story can be read anytime. This is not a Christmas story, but a ‘real life’ story.

If you are getting a cat anytime soon, be wary of Christmas time and what kind of disasters may occur!

WAIT! Once the story is over there is more! The boy Alex loves his facts, so there are some facts about cats and Christmas, there are some Christmas jokes, Dad’s hot cocoa recipe as he made the family cocoa, and an activity: How to make a Christmas angel like Mom did!

Thank you to the publisher for my e-arc copy!
Profile Image for Lindsey.
75 reviews
March 26, 2018
The Cat Who Ate Christmas is an adorable book about an ornery kitty who has just too much Christmas cheer. I love this book because it perfectly shows the experience of navigating the holidays with pets. Poor Jingles the cat just wants to explore the new house festivities, but not without making a mess. Any family with a cat (or pet in general) will enjoy adding this to their holiday collection. I know I look forward to adding it to ours! The illustrations beautifully pair with the story and the use of sparse color and sparkles make it top notch. The addition of the Christmas jokes and recipes in the back are really the cherry on top.

* Disclaimer: I received this book as a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Susan  Faloon.
1,184 reviews
November 28, 2018
This is a really cute story about a very naughty cat named Jingles. He causes a lot of problems at Christmas time for his family. Even though he is naughty, his human family loves him. The book has nice illustrations which will help young children visualize the funny actions of Jingles. The story shows how pets can act even during Christmas because it is their natural instinct. A recipe for cocoa and a special craft is included for children to make with family or friends.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this enjoyable book. I think it is perfect for an adult to read with young children or an independent reader to share with siblings or read alone. It is an excellent story which can lead to sharing a discussion and giggles about Jingles actions.
Profile Image for Eve L-A Witherington.
Author 175 books55 followers
March 26, 2018
Jingles the cat causes mayhem for his family in this delightful short children's book. Lily, Rose and Alex all look forward to Christmas but their crafty kitty knocks over the tree, scoffs the Christmas dinner and opens the presents! Naturally in turn, all the family are angry at his actions but still love him and so head off to buy him his favourite treats and track him down to bring him home again!



A short sweet book, with charming illustrations, everyone will fall in love with Jingles!



Many thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!
Profile Image for Laura.
3,205 reviews351 followers
March 30, 2018
What is the most important thing about Christmas? Is it the tree and decorations? Is it the delicious food? What would make you most upset if it got destroyed?

Jingles is a small kitten but he is a part of the family. He has not yet learned how to behave.
When Jingles messes up the decorations he is supposed to stay closed safely in a bedroom, but someone didn't close the door tightly. Will Jingles get into more trouble?

Find out what happens and how the family reacts. A fast paced holiday adventure.
There are extras at the end of the book!
Profile Image for Jennifer Ritter.
1,260 reviews37 followers
July 9, 2018

The Cat Who Ate Christmas is an endearing children’s Christmas story starring a mischievous cat named Jingles who wreaks havoc with his family’s Christmas from presents to dinner and more.

With detailed pen and ink drawings and a flowing family tale, this is a very good new addition to Christmas story fare. I enjoyed reading this story and look forward to sharing it with my grandsons.
Profile Image for Sebastian Ramirez.
93 reviews
December 12, 2020
Uan Historia Divertida, corta y sencilla para estas epocas.
Es un libro divertido con una historia simple de una familia y de su gatito.
La edicion del lubro y sus ilustraciones me encantan estan muy bien hechas y es un libro de esos de que te sientas y en menos de media hora te los acabas.

"Jingles ate christmas"

4 ☆☆☆☆
Profile Image for Lacy H Buckhault.
32 reviews1 follower
October 25, 2022
Such a cute little story about a cat named Jingles who wrecks havoc on a family’s Christmas. Instead of being mean, rude or aggressive, the family chose to deal with it in a nice way. My kids really enjoyed this story, even being older (10-11 y/o’s).

I definitely want to check into this author, who is new to me. To see what other stories she has.
Profile Image for Jennifer Smith.
216 reviews37 followers
December 20, 2025
This was such a cute book! (Though there was a flashback I had when the cat ate the Christmas turkey and I remembered the time my childhood cat jumped on my chair and stole my mac n cheese. 😅😂) I'm so glad I picked this one up when it caught my attention at the library the other week! Definitely a cute and quick Christmas read and one that I hope my girls will love when they're older!
Profile Image for H.L. Burke.
Author 101 books573 followers
December 8, 2019
Pretty basic but kind of sweet story with fun illustrations that made an easy read aloud (finished it comfortably in one sitting). Kept my almost-8-year-olds attention. Not something I'd return to as a yearly classic, but was a nice quick read.
Profile Image for Connie Stein.
175 reviews4 followers
April 10, 2018
I thought this was a very cute story for Christmas time. It is not your traditional story but more like a real life story. I would read this with my 6 year old granddaughter.
Profile Image for Bella.
421 reviews
December 25, 2018
Illustration on every page and a text-filled story. I have never read anything quite like this (though there could probably a lot of other books like this).
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews