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Mary's Son
Eleven-year-old Sarah Stone is lonely in a mansion amidst butlers, nannies, housekeepers, and a father who is too busy for her. She is angry at the world. On the other side of town, in a slum called the Sink, Jared Roberts and his gang barely survive broken families and a hardscrabble existence. Jared, too, is angry, and intends to do something about it. He eyes Sarah's mansion for a pre-Christmas burglary that will show the world who he really is.
Into this mix comes a mysterious little man named Nicholas, who intrigues, yet scares, Sarah and Jared. Against incredible doubt and cynicism, Nicholas tries to guide the two youths away from their anger and the suffering that will follow, only to realize he can not move them. Finally, he whisks them to another time and place where a Christmas long ago teaches them the true meaning of life in a way they never imagined.
MARY'S SON is a modern tale of the fears and passions of youth overcome by the wonder of the real Christmas story.
Into this mix comes a mysterious little man named Nicholas, who intrigues, yet scares, Sarah and Jared. Against incredible doubt and cynicism, Nicholas tries to guide the two youths away from their anger and the suffering that will follow, only to realize he can not move them. Finally, he whisks them to another time and place where a Christmas long ago teaches them the true meaning of life in a way they never imagined.
MARY'S SON is a modern tale of the fears and passions of youth overcome by the wonder of the real Christmas story.
174 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 5, 2010
65 people are currently reading
460 people want to read
About the author
Darryl Nyznyk
5 books20 followers Darryl Nyznyk is the award winning author of 5 novels, with many more in various stages awaiting publication.
Darryl was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, the son of a radio DJ/Newsman and a MOM. Darryl was inspired from a young age by parents who threw caution to the wind with the mentality that “things will work out if you just set them in motion.” His first memory of this was when his parents decided to pack him and his siblings in the family car and move away from the comfort of family, friends and a culture they loved, to Hollywood, California where his father was told “the streets are lined with gold,” for a radio man with a voice like his. His father arrived with his family in tow, without a job, without a home, without even an idea of where to go or how to get there, yet somehow he did.
Darryl’s boyhood adventures building forts of stone and bush while protecting them from the marauding hordes of neighborhood vandals; racing hand-made, human powered go-carts to scrapes, bruises and vehicular destruction; playing Little League baseball amidst the sweet fragrance of new-mowed spring grass, and eyeing the prettiest girls with awe and the occasional churn of the stomach when they would look back, were enriched by the stories of Jules Verne, Mark Twain, and Edgar Rice Burroughs.
Darryl obtained a bachelor’s degree in Economics from U.C. Santa Barbara and just happened to attend during the tail end of the Viet Nam war. The campus was a hot-bed of anti-establishment activity, political activism, partying, day-long Grateful Dead concerts, and baby boomer coming-of-age stories. It was a wild time and a wild place and it ingrained in him a sense of individualism intertwined with societal obligations that have helped shape his core.
J.D. degree came from the University of San Diego’s School of Law. He graduated “Magna Cum Laude."
Prior to embarking upon his life as a full time writer, Nyznyk was a partner in a law practice for nearly twenty years. It was during this time that he first formally indulged his passion for writing. Although the practice of law depends heavily upon a person’s ability to write well, the technical substance of such writing never satisfied his itch for story. He therefore wrote the thriller titled THE THIRD TERM during those years. He self-published the book and moved over three thousand hard cover copies to very good reviews. Needless to say, that effort hooked him on writing.
Following his years in private practice, Darryl was General Counsel and then President of a Southern California real estate development company. During his nine-year tenure at the company, it grew from a mid-sized, local builder to a large regional developer. In early 2007, he left the business world of law and real estate development to pursue his passion for writing full time.
In 2010 Darryl strayed from the suspense/thriller genre to create his first major success, the award winning bestseller, MARY’S SON, A TALE OF CHRISTMAS, a novel geared to reminding readers of the real meaning of Darryl’s favorite family holiday: Christmas.
THE CONDOR SONG drew heavily from his experiences as a courtroom lawyer and real estate developer. Guided by his experiences in the legal arena and inspired by the 1960’s and 70’s Sierra Club battle with Walt Disney over a proposed ski resort in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Darryl brings a captivating realism to this thriller.
THE FIRST GOSPEL explores one of the most talked about relics in history, the Shroud of Turin. Inspired by his interest in this historical cloth and the incredible truths it might hold, he delivers, yet again, a thriller at whose center lies the truth about the greatest archeological mystery the world has ever known.
Nyznyk's recent release, A BOOMER’S TALE, is a unique play on the two-world romantic adventure of Diana Gabaldon’s “Outlander” novels. It is a story of adventure, intrigue and romance for a new generation questioning
Darryl was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, the son of a radio DJ/Newsman and a MOM. Darryl was inspired from a young age by parents who threw caution to the wind with the mentality that “things will work out if you just set them in motion.” His first memory of this was when his parents decided to pack him and his siblings in the family car and move away from the comfort of family, friends and a culture they loved, to Hollywood, California where his father was told “the streets are lined with gold,” for a radio man with a voice like his. His father arrived with his family in tow, without a job, without a home, without even an idea of where to go or how to get there, yet somehow he did.
Darryl’s boyhood adventures building forts of stone and bush while protecting them from the marauding hordes of neighborhood vandals; racing hand-made, human powered go-carts to scrapes, bruises and vehicular destruction; playing Little League baseball amidst the sweet fragrance of new-mowed spring grass, and eyeing the prettiest girls with awe and the occasional churn of the stomach when they would look back, were enriched by the stories of Jules Verne, Mark Twain, and Edgar Rice Burroughs.
Darryl obtained a bachelor’s degree in Economics from U.C. Santa Barbara and just happened to attend during the tail end of the Viet Nam war. The campus was a hot-bed of anti-establishment activity, political activism, partying, day-long Grateful Dead concerts, and baby boomer coming-of-age stories. It was a wild time and a wild place and it ingrained in him a sense of individualism intertwined with societal obligations that have helped shape his core.
J.D. degree came from the University of San Diego’s School of Law. He graduated “Magna Cum Laude."
Prior to embarking upon his life as a full time writer, Nyznyk was a partner in a law practice for nearly twenty years. It was during this time that he first formally indulged his passion for writing. Although the practice of law depends heavily upon a person’s ability to write well, the technical substance of such writing never satisfied his itch for story. He therefore wrote the thriller titled THE THIRD TERM during those years. He self-published the book and moved over three thousand hard cover copies to very good reviews. Needless to say, that effort hooked him on writing.
Following his years in private practice, Darryl was General Counsel and then President of a Southern California real estate development company. During his nine-year tenure at the company, it grew from a mid-sized, local builder to a large regional developer. In early 2007, he left the business world of law and real estate development to pursue his passion for writing full time.
In 2010 Darryl strayed from the suspense/thriller genre to create his first major success, the award winning bestseller, MARY’S SON, A TALE OF CHRISTMAS, a novel geared to reminding readers of the real meaning of Darryl’s favorite family holiday: Christmas.
THE CONDOR SONG drew heavily from his experiences as a courtroom lawyer and real estate developer. Guided by his experiences in the legal arena and inspired by the 1960’s and 70’s Sierra Club battle with Walt Disney over a proposed ski resort in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Darryl brings a captivating realism to this thriller.
THE FIRST GOSPEL explores one of the most talked about relics in history, the Shroud of Turin. Inspired by his interest in this historical cloth and the incredible truths it might hold, he delivers, yet again, a thriller at whose center lies the truth about the greatest archeological mystery the world has ever known.
Nyznyk's recent release, A BOOMER’S TALE, is a unique play on the two-world romantic adventure of Diana Gabaldon’s “Outlander” novels. It is a story of adventure, intrigue and romance for a new generation questioning
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
November 21, 2011
As soon as I turned the last page of Mary’s Son, I couldn’t wait to write and post this review. What a wonderful story!
Mary’s Son is about a teenager, Jared Roberts. He has a chip on his shoulder, thinks the world owes him something for the misfortune that has landed in his lap, and he is one angry teenager…especially at the Stone family. He thinks they are responsible for his father’s disappearance, his family’s misfortune, and he is determined that they pay. With a group of his friends in tow, he sets his sights on the Stone mansion, determined to take a little of what he feels he deserves.
Eleven-year-old Sarah Stone is just as angry. She is surrounded by wealth and material things – but with a household of servants at her disposal, and anything that money can buy, she is still the loneliest girl in the world. She would trade it all for just a bit of attention from her father, but since she doesn’t have it, she takes it out on everyone around her.
A brat and a brawler, both too absorbed in themselves to see the world around them, that is until Nicholas arrives. Nicholas, the sweet old man that looks suspiciously like Santa Claus, sweeps into their lives and tries to divert them from the destructive path that they are on. But the too refuse to change, and Nicholas must take them back in time to the first Christmas, before it is too late.
What a beautiful story for tweens, teens and adults alike! The two kids will frustrate you and break your heart at the same time. And the message is one we should hear, not just during Christmas, but all year round. It is a poignant reminder that everyone has a story, and if we just look a little closer (not just on the surface), we will find a heart yearning for love – God’s love.
Mary’s Son is about a teenager, Jared Roberts. He has a chip on his shoulder, thinks the world owes him something for the misfortune that has landed in his lap, and he is one angry teenager…especially at the Stone family. He thinks they are responsible for his father’s disappearance, his family’s misfortune, and he is determined that they pay. With a group of his friends in tow, he sets his sights on the Stone mansion, determined to take a little of what he feels he deserves.
Eleven-year-old Sarah Stone is just as angry. She is surrounded by wealth and material things – but with a household of servants at her disposal, and anything that money can buy, she is still the loneliest girl in the world. She would trade it all for just a bit of attention from her father, but since she doesn’t have it, she takes it out on everyone around her.
A brat and a brawler, both too absorbed in themselves to see the world around them, that is until Nicholas arrives. Nicholas, the sweet old man that looks suspiciously like Santa Claus, sweeps into their lives and tries to divert them from the destructive path that they are on. But the too refuse to change, and Nicholas must take them back in time to the first Christmas, before it is too late.
What a beautiful story for tweens, teens and adults alike! The two kids will frustrate you and break your heart at the same time. And the message is one we should hear, not just during Christmas, but all year round. It is a poignant reminder that everyone has a story, and if we just look a little closer (not just on the surface), we will find a heart yearning for love – God’s love.
December 4, 2015
In the book "Mary's Son", Darryl Nyznyk talks about two kids who don't like Christmas or don't believe in it. The first kid is called Jared. His family is really poor. Jared has 1 sister, a baby brother, two little twin sisters, and her mom. His dad used to live with them but Joe( dad) just disappeared because they fired him. Now Jared has to take care of the family. His mom Mary is really frustrated because it is almost Christmas and she doesn't have enough money. The next person is Sarah. Her family is really rich. She doesn't have brothers nor sisters. She only lives with her dad because her mom had died in a car accident. But she has barely time to spend with her dad because her dad is really busy. One day an old man named Nicolas comes to Sarah's house and tells a tall man called Stevens that he would want the job to take care of the child. Stevens gives him a worksheet and tells him to fill it out before Miss Grundick comes. While he was done Myra Grundick comes and asks what is he doing here. Nicolas tells her that he was filling out a worksheet to get the job. Myra reads it and tells him to leave because he said his name is Santa Claus. When he is about to leave Sarah comes and tells Myra that she wants him to stay. While they argue Sarah's dad Jonas comes and asks what is happening. To make long story short Nicolas stays and gets the job. Then Nicolas, Stevens, and Sarah all go to the mall. Then in Jared's house Mary, Amanda, Billy, Kayla, and Katie also go to the mall. Jared has his own gang and goes with his friends. When they go to the mall Sarah is buying and then Nicolas sings to the children and they think Nicolas is Santa Claus. Sarah gets really mad. Then they leave to Sarah's house and her dad tells him he has to leave. But then again Sarah wants him to stay. He stays. Then Jared has a plan to steal Sarah's house. They now this because Sarah's family is going to have a party. When the party comes Jared has a real gun and they go. Sarah and Nicolas meets Jared and tell him to put the gun away. Instead of putting the gun away he shoots Sarah. Then Nicolas takes Sarah and Jared to another place. They go to the first Christmas. When Mary was giving birth to baby Jesus. They see how Mary was going to give birth and nobody gave her a place to stay. Finally they come back and arrest Nicolas for taking the children. They argue and then Nicolas leaves. When Jared's family get to the house they see that Joe has return. They are really happy.
I really liked this book because it was interesting how two kids that didn't believe in Christmas then they believe in Christmas. I also liked it because most of the book is real or nonfiction like for example a lot of people here are poor and some people are rich. For me it was kind of well written because I really didn't get the first chapter when I read it because it talked about Joe and how he lost his job. When I finished the book I got what it meant. The interesting theme was Christmas because in the book it only talked about Christmas. Also I thought the theme was forgiveness because when Jared shot Sarah, Sarah forgave Jared.
I would recommend this book to everybody that likes Christmas and those who don't believe in Christmas so they can believe. I would recommend it because it talks about what Christmas is truly about. I would give this book 4.5 stars because sometimes in the book I really didn't get because in the last chapter it talked about that Jared's father talked with Nicolas. Also I didn't get why Jared's father had to leave.
I really liked this book because it was interesting how two kids that didn't believe in Christmas then they believe in Christmas. I also liked it because most of the book is real or nonfiction like for example a lot of people here are poor and some people are rich. For me it was kind of well written because I really didn't get the first chapter when I read it because it talked about Joe and how he lost his job. When I finished the book I got what it meant. The interesting theme was Christmas because in the book it only talked about Christmas. Also I thought the theme was forgiveness because when Jared shot Sarah, Sarah forgave Jared.
I would recommend this book to everybody that likes Christmas and those who don't believe in Christmas so they can believe. I would recommend it because it talks about what Christmas is truly about. I would give this book 4.5 stars because sometimes in the book I really didn't get because in the last chapter it talked about that Jared's father talked with Nicolas. Also I didn't get why Jared's father had to leave.
September 14, 2010
Mary's Son: A Tale of Christmas, written by Darryl Nyznyk is a wonderful and poignant story of the numbing fears of youth and an inspiring read that reinvents the real Christmas story and crowns it with a modern twist.
Sarah Stone is the eleven-year-old heroine in Mary's Son. She lives a privileged life in an elegant mansion, but is angry about the non-existent relationship with her father. Enter the boy from the other side of town. His name is Jared Roberts and he barely exists in a slum area of town named the "Sink." Jared also belongs to a gang of children who also live hard lives of broken families and a street-smart existence. He's as angry about his fate as Sarah is about hers and his "plan" will change both of their lives.
Jared is planning a robbery of Sarah's mansion that will take place just before Christmas. He envisions that the robbery will help others see him for the "master-mind" that he is. Now, enter a strange little man named Nicholas into Sarah's and Jared's lives. His presence is worrisome to others who surround the children, but Nicholas means well and attempts to lead Sarah and Jared from their anger and plans for revenge.
Unsuccessful in his attempts to dissuade Sarah and Jared from destructive futures, Nicholas "kidnaps" the two and transports them to another place in time where a Christmas of long-ago demonstrates the real meaning of Christmas and changes their lives forever.
Mary's Son speaks to youth in a way that they can relate to and understand. Nyznyk demonstrates how the ancient story of Christmas and the birth of Christ can be significant in modern times. Nyznyk writes the story in a way that teaches children and teens about what Christmas really means and how that meaning has become lost in the media version of expensive gifts, shopping and spending.
Readers of Mary's Son will experience emotions that bring back memories of what they felt when they first read or saw "A Christmas Carol" by Dickens or the movie, "It's a Wonderful Life." It's a reminder that the real story of Christmas does exist and that we can successfully communicate to our children that it's okay to love God and your neighbor as you love yourself.
What a delight to read a story that helps us step away from partisanship, anger, sarcasm, sniping and hatred. In Mary's Son, Nyznyk puts Christ back into Christmas by reminding us of our real values and how only by returning to these intrinsic values will we ever save a society that has ventured so far from them.
Nyznyk's characters endure all of the problems that modern youth must face in today's world - isolation, peer pressure and anger, just to name a few. Mary's Son: A Tale of Christmas, written by Darryl Nyznyk, provides hope of overcoming the hurdles they face. It's a book that you should definitely put on your Christmas list for a favorite young person in your life.
Review by Lauren Smith
This review covers Mary's Son: A Tale of Christmas" by Darryl Nyznyk.
Article Source: Mary's Son - A Tale of Christmas - An Inspiring Read
Sarah Stone is the eleven-year-old heroine in Mary's Son. She lives a privileged life in an elegant mansion, but is angry about the non-existent relationship with her father. Enter the boy from the other side of town. His name is Jared Roberts and he barely exists in a slum area of town named the "Sink." Jared also belongs to a gang of children who also live hard lives of broken families and a street-smart existence. He's as angry about his fate as Sarah is about hers and his "plan" will change both of their lives.
Jared is planning a robbery of Sarah's mansion that will take place just before Christmas. He envisions that the robbery will help others see him for the "master-mind" that he is. Now, enter a strange little man named Nicholas into Sarah's and Jared's lives. His presence is worrisome to others who surround the children, but Nicholas means well and attempts to lead Sarah and Jared from their anger and plans for revenge.
Unsuccessful in his attempts to dissuade Sarah and Jared from destructive futures, Nicholas "kidnaps" the two and transports them to another place in time where a Christmas of long-ago demonstrates the real meaning of Christmas and changes their lives forever.
Mary's Son speaks to youth in a way that they can relate to and understand. Nyznyk demonstrates how the ancient story of Christmas and the birth of Christ can be significant in modern times. Nyznyk writes the story in a way that teaches children and teens about what Christmas really means and how that meaning has become lost in the media version of expensive gifts, shopping and spending.
Readers of Mary's Son will experience emotions that bring back memories of what they felt when they first read or saw "A Christmas Carol" by Dickens or the movie, "It's a Wonderful Life." It's a reminder that the real story of Christmas does exist and that we can successfully communicate to our children that it's okay to love God and your neighbor as you love yourself.
What a delight to read a story that helps us step away from partisanship, anger, sarcasm, sniping and hatred. In Mary's Son, Nyznyk puts Christ back into Christmas by reminding us of our real values and how only by returning to these intrinsic values will we ever save a society that has ventured so far from them.
Nyznyk's characters endure all of the problems that modern youth must face in today's world - isolation, peer pressure and anger, just to name a few. Mary's Son: A Tale of Christmas, written by Darryl Nyznyk, provides hope of overcoming the hurdles they face. It's a book that you should definitely put on your Christmas list for a favorite young person in your life.
Review by Lauren Smith
This review covers Mary's Son: A Tale of Christmas" by Darryl Nyznyk.
Article Source: Mary's Son - A Tale of Christmas - An Inspiring Read
December 28, 2015
A Preteen/Young Teen Novel About the True Meaning of Christmas
"The problem is that so much time passes between each Christmas that your father, Miss Grundide, and many other growups simply forget. They get caught up in their own worlds of work, pressure, and money. Soon memories of that first Christmas and what Jesus' birth means to all of us begin to fade."
FINAL DECISION: A Christmas story for those children who think they are too old for the traditional chidlren's books. This book is about the importance of recognizing the true meaning of Christmas and its effects in our lives.
THE STORY: Jared Roberts is a poor boy whose father has seemingly deserted the family. Jared tries to step into the male role in the family and has ended up in bad company. He and his buddies plan a burglary of a rich man. Sarah Stone is eleven years old. She lives in a mansion and her father ignores her. At Christmas both Jared and Sarah encounter Nicholas who looks quite a bit like Santa Claus and who ends up taking them on a journey to Christmas past.
OPINION: This was an assigned book at my son's middle school so I read it to know what he was reading. The book is short and straightforward, but I liked the analysis of how we grow older and allow other things to take the place of wonder and joy in our lives. The book also has a message about growing up and making the right choices. I thought it was a great Christmas story in a similar vein to A Christmas Carol. This book is perfect for those parents looking for a Christmas read for their preteen or young teen with a positive message and a sense of wonder and magic.
WORTH MENTIONING: This book is overtly religious with references to Santa Claus and Jesus and the true meaning of Christmas.
CONNECTED BOOKS: This book is a standalone.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
"The problem is that so much time passes between each Christmas that your father, Miss Grundide, and many other growups simply forget. They get caught up in their own worlds of work, pressure, and money. Soon memories of that first Christmas and what Jesus' birth means to all of us begin to fade."
FINAL DECISION: A Christmas story for those children who think they are too old for the traditional chidlren's books. This book is about the importance of recognizing the true meaning of Christmas and its effects in our lives.
THE STORY: Jared Roberts is a poor boy whose father has seemingly deserted the family. Jared tries to step into the male role in the family and has ended up in bad company. He and his buddies plan a burglary of a rich man. Sarah Stone is eleven years old. She lives in a mansion and her father ignores her. At Christmas both Jared and Sarah encounter Nicholas who looks quite a bit like Santa Claus and who ends up taking them on a journey to Christmas past.
OPINION: This was an assigned book at my son's middle school so I read it to know what he was reading. The book is short and straightforward, but I liked the analysis of how we grow older and allow other things to take the place of wonder and joy in our lives. The book also has a message about growing up and making the right choices. I thought it was a great Christmas story in a similar vein to A Christmas Carol. This book is perfect for those parents looking for a Christmas read for their preteen or young teen with a positive message and a sense of wonder and magic.
WORTH MENTIONING: This book is overtly religious with references to Santa Claus and Jesus and the true meaning of Christmas.
CONNECTED BOOKS: This book is a standalone.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
December 16, 2012
I actually enjoyed this book in the beginning, but it just went downhill in the last 1/4 of the book. The characters were a little stereotypical. I liked that the author was trying to combine Santa with the true meaning of Christmas. The problem came because the actual part in the book with the birth of Christ was rushed, and not described as well as the rest of the book. Because of that, the book fell flat to me. But, when I read that this was a story that the author had told at a young girls' sleepover party, it all made sense. It did feel like a bedtime story that your dad would tell you. Just not quite good enough to be published for the rest of the world, in my opinion.
November 12, 2010
I loved this book!! During Christmas, I always feel like Christ and Santa are competing...this book has them working together! I am definately going to read it to my kids in December, hopefully it will be a new family favorite!
December 28, 2010
Mary's Son was a great book. It was one of the best books I have ever read! It was a great coming of age story about the true meaning of Christmas. It was a page turner with a touching ending. Mary's Son is an amazing must read novel.
December 1, 2011
what a great story, just in time for the holiday season! bordering on cheesy, but who cares? this time of year we all need our hearts warmed and our eyes misty ! get into the spirit of Christmas with this delightful and non preachy wonderful book :)
November 30, 2011
A very good story! Santa Claus, Baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph, a very heartwarming story, I highly recommend this book.
November 29, 2011
Once i started this book, I couldn't put it down!
December 1, 2011
"Very Frank Capraesque". A cute book. It rather reminded me of "It's a Wonderful Life". Very Frank Capra-like. To me it seemed better suited for teens and young adults than adults.
December 2, 2011
Beautiful story about two families from opposite sides of town.
A great story for all ages.
A great story for all ages.
November 21, 2013
Couldn't put it down. Great story about the true meaning of christmas.
December 31, 2015
Wonderful story about the real meaning of Christmas.
June 20, 2016
We are never too old to enjoy a Christmas story full of love and hope. The timing is perfect for you to read and enjoy this Christmas story with a new twist. Enjoy!
September 7, 2021
Mary’s Son is a fantasy tale that combines Jesus and Santa. That may sound odd, but this is a sweet story with a beautiful message. This Christmas tale has the old-fashioned feel of Miracle on 34th Street – one of my favorite holiday movies – maybe that is why I enjoyed this book so much.
This book revolves around an elderly gentleman, Nicholas, who, with powers given to him by God, is able to show two teens from opposites sides of town the real meaning of Christmas. Spoiled and self-centered Sarah is the only child of the wealthiest widower in town. Angry and defensive Jared is the oldest child of a poor family who is still reeling from the abandonment of their father.
Both teens are heading down a destructive path until Nicholas arrives and takes them on a journey – one they will never forget. One that will not only reveal what Christmas is truly about but will ultimately change their lives forever.
This book revolves around an elderly gentleman, Nicholas, who, with powers given to him by God, is able to show two teens from opposites sides of town the real meaning of Christmas. Spoiled and self-centered Sarah is the only child of the wealthiest widower in town. Angry and defensive Jared is the oldest child of a poor family who is still reeling from the abandonment of their father.
Both teens are heading down a destructive path until Nicholas arrives and takes them on a journey – one they will never forget. One that will not only reveal what Christmas is truly about but will ultimately change their lives forever.
December 30, 2021
This is certainly a different kind of Christmas story. Somehow it manages to mesh Santa Claus and Jesus, poverty and wealth, anger and peace, among other topics, together. It works. A story is woven about a chubby little man who visits a spoiled but hurting child. Along the way, he manages to touch many other lives.
Read
May 27, 2020A lovely story told in an unexpected way. Should be told or required reading for elementary students and in Sunday school.
On my Kindle list. Characters reminded me of real people we have probably met in our lives. A little whimsy and a lot of hope.
On my Kindle list. Characters reminded me of real people we have probably met in our lives. A little whimsy and a lot of hope.
December 8, 2022
Good Christmas Tale
I can't say this was an awesome book or even a perfect story, but it was a good story. It is a story of truth and imagination, and a story about redemption. I liked the mingling of the story of Santa Claus and the birth of Christ. The rest was strictly fun.
I can't say this was an awesome book or even a perfect story, but it was a good story. It is a story of truth and imagination, and a story about redemption. I liked the mingling of the story of Santa Claus and the birth of Christ. The rest was strictly fun.
December 21, 2023
A Perfect Christmas Story
This is a beautiful version of the miracle of Christmas. Regardless of our age, this story blesses us with understanding that love is the greatest gift we can ever give or receive.
This is a beautiful version of the miracle of Christmas. Regardless of our age, this story blesses us with understanding that love is the greatest gift we can ever give or receive.
November 23, 2016
Great book. Shelved as fiction at the library but I think it should be shelved as juvenile fiction or young adult fiction. That way kids have access to this great book at the library.
December 18, 2019
Quick Christmas book. Engaging sweet story but a little sophomoric. Really more of a children’s book.
December 1, 2021
A very heartwarming book to read during the Christmas season. It would be a great book to read to children and grandchildren.
August 7, 2022
A most delightful blending of Christmas.
January 14, 2023
Beautiful reminder
This a wonderful story told in such a unique way of the greasy gift ever given. Would be a wonderful story to read to children.
This a wonderful story told in such a unique way of the greasy gift ever given. Would be a wonderful story to read to children.
January 18, 2023
It was a good story. I’m just really not a fan of telling anyone they have to believe in Santa Claus🎅
February 3, 2024
This was the first ever book without pictures i have ever read when i was 9-10 years old. It’s a heart warming story.
March 27, 2012
From Goodreads: "Mary’s Son is a modern tale of the fears and passions of youth overcome by the wonder of the real Christmas story. Eleven-year-old Sarah Stone is lonely. She lives in a mansion amidst butlers, nannies, housekeepers, and a father who is too busy for her. She is bright, beautiful, and angry at the world."
My opinion: I thought this was a very touching book, and a very cute story for kids. It was a quick read, only 170 pages, but that was plenty of time to get the point across. The events of the book take place in the days before Christmas. In the first part of the book we get to know Jared, the 13-year old street kid from the wrong side of the tracks, whose father disappeared on Christmas Eve the year before, and Sarah, the 11-year old spoiled rich girl, who lives in the mansion on the hill, who lost her mother when she was only 5 years old to a drunk driver. She has everything she could possibly want, except for any type of affection in her life. Her father is too busy to have anything to do with her, and the servants merely tolerate her. Enter Nicholas, who comes to her house to apply for the job of her "nanny", even though the job hasn't been posted yet. The housekeeper takes an instant dislike to him, but Sarah is curious about this odd little man who can make umbrellas appear out of thin air and who says he is the real Santa, and she begs her father to let him stay. This sets in motion a course that will change her life, as well as Jared's, for better or worse.
I loved the message of this book, and I especially like how Santa got his amazing powers from God and through prayer. When Nicholas meets Sarah and Jared, they are both so jaded that they don't believe in Santa at all, and they are questioning their belief in God as well. When everything comes to a head one night, Nicholas whisks the kids away to Bethlehem on the night of Jesus' birth so they can witness the miracle themselves. I think this would be a great book to discuss with your kids at Christmastime.
In summary, I really enjoyed this book and think it has a great message, for adults and kids alike. :D
My opinion: I thought this was a very touching book, and a very cute story for kids. It was a quick read, only 170 pages, but that was plenty of time to get the point across. The events of the book take place in the days before Christmas. In the first part of the book we get to know Jared, the 13-year old street kid from the wrong side of the tracks, whose father disappeared on Christmas Eve the year before, and Sarah, the 11-year old spoiled rich girl, who lives in the mansion on the hill, who lost her mother when she was only 5 years old to a drunk driver. She has everything she could possibly want, except for any type of affection in her life. Her father is too busy to have anything to do with her, and the servants merely tolerate her. Enter Nicholas, who comes to her house to apply for the job of her "nanny", even though the job hasn't been posted yet. The housekeeper takes an instant dislike to him, but Sarah is curious about this odd little man who can make umbrellas appear out of thin air and who says he is the real Santa, and she begs her father to let him stay. This sets in motion a course that will change her life, as well as Jared's, for better or worse.
I loved the message of this book, and I especially like how Santa got his amazing powers from God and through prayer. When Nicholas meets Sarah and Jared, they are both so jaded that they don't believe in Santa at all, and they are questioning their belief in God as well. When everything comes to a head one night, Nicholas whisks the kids away to Bethlehem on the night of Jesus' birth so they can witness the miracle themselves. I think this would be a great book to discuss with your kids at Christmastime.
In summary, I really enjoyed this book and think it has a great message, for adults and kids alike. :D
December 27, 2012
What a charming tale of love, generosity and redemption. In part a story which oozes love and kindness and in part a fantasy tale.
We first meet Sarah Stone, a very spoiled, wealthy and bad tempered young girl. Perhaps she is that way, as we learn her mother died a few years prior to the start of the story. Her father, a wealthy businessman has drifted from her in that she has possessions, but rarely does he show he loves her. He has supplied her with enough staff to make certain her wants and needs are covered. On the day we meet her, we learn her most recent adult companion, chaperone had left. However, her life is about to change when Nicholas appears to take on that job.
Jared Roberts is a lad from the poor part of town. So bad it is known as the Sink. Jared, at 13, has become the man of the family. His father left the family nearly a year ago on Christmas. Joe Roberts had been accused of stealing from his employer, Jonas Stone, Sarah's wealthy father. Rather than try and redeem himself, Joe Roberts took off for parts unknown leaving his family struggling to exist. Mary Roberts does what she can to try and hold the family together.
Nicholas a happy sort of fellow wants the job watching Sarah. However, his methods are not so much attentive as Sarah would like. When at the mall, Nicholas is spotted by several people and his resemblance to Santa Claus is stunning. The first to notice is one of Jared's younger sisters. She leaves the mall Santa line to come speak with Nicholas. Soon, a crowd is gathered. While speaking with the gathering crowd Nicholas spies Jared and tries to reach out to the troubled youth. However, Jared takes off not wanting to encounter Nicholas.
Eventually all paths cross when Jared and his little gang try to rob the Stones. But, things go wrong when Nicholas tries to interevene to prevent the robbery. A gun is fired and Nicholas, Jared and Sarah have disappeared. For, Nicholas has spirited the children off to a place of wonder to experience the love and true gifts of Christmas.
The tale rounds out with perhaps an expected ending, and a beautiful story of the meaning and miracles of Christmas. Enjoy.
We first meet Sarah Stone, a very spoiled, wealthy and bad tempered young girl. Perhaps she is that way, as we learn her mother died a few years prior to the start of the story. Her father, a wealthy businessman has drifted from her in that she has possessions, but rarely does he show he loves her. He has supplied her with enough staff to make certain her wants and needs are covered. On the day we meet her, we learn her most recent adult companion, chaperone had left. However, her life is about to change when Nicholas appears to take on that job.
Jared Roberts is a lad from the poor part of town. So bad it is known as the Sink. Jared, at 13, has become the man of the family. His father left the family nearly a year ago on Christmas. Joe Roberts had been accused of stealing from his employer, Jonas Stone, Sarah's wealthy father. Rather than try and redeem himself, Joe Roberts took off for parts unknown leaving his family struggling to exist. Mary Roberts does what she can to try and hold the family together.
Nicholas a happy sort of fellow wants the job watching Sarah. However, his methods are not so much attentive as Sarah would like. When at the mall, Nicholas is spotted by several people and his resemblance to Santa Claus is stunning. The first to notice is one of Jared's younger sisters. She leaves the mall Santa line to come speak with Nicholas. Soon, a crowd is gathered. While speaking with the gathering crowd Nicholas spies Jared and tries to reach out to the troubled youth. However, Jared takes off not wanting to encounter Nicholas.
Eventually all paths cross when Jared and his little gang try to rob the Stones. But, things go wrong when Nicholas tries to interevene to prevent the robbery. A gun is fired and Nicholas, Jared and Sarah have disappeared. For, Nicholas has spirited the children off to a place of wonder to experience the love and true gifts of Christmas.
The tale rounds out with perhaps an expected ending, and a beautiful story of the meaning and miracles of Christmas. Enjoy.
October 17, 2014
Mary’s Son is about an eleven year old girl who is lonely. She lives in a mansion with nannies, housekeepers, and a father who is too busy for her. She is seen as a bright and beautiful girl and angry at the world. On the other side of town, in a slum called the “sink”. Jared Roberts is a main leader of his gang and barely survives broken families and a hardscrabble existence. Jared is also a person who is angry at the unfair world, and he tends to do something about it to change it. He has Sarah’s mansion in his sights for a Christmas burglary that will show the world who he truly is and why he is so powerful. In the novel comes this weird little man named Nicholas. He intrigues Sarah and Jared but scares those responsible for them. Nicholas tries to change both Sarah and Jared. He tries to take away their anger and the destruction that will follow. However he cannot move them with just desire. Finally he moves both the two young people to another time and place. Where a long ago Christmas teaches them the true meaning of life in a way they never imagined. The point of the novel is to show you two different characteristics with two different lifestyles but with the same thoughts. Nicholas changes both their lives by taking them to a place that will change their lives. The reason he did this was because he was tired of seeing both these teens upset of their lives. Jared is a girl that has everything from a mansion to pretty much anything. Nicholas sees this and dislikes the fact that she is upset with her life. The point of this novel is to show people to be happy and not angry with their lives.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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