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A Little Labradoodle Christmas

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Looking for a holiday tale that will bring smiles and inspire your child to spread kindness? A Little Labradoodle Christmas is the perfect addition to your holiday reading tradition.

When a grumpy old cat grumbles his way through the holidays, two playful Labradoodles and a kind-hearted little girl set out on a mission to change his mind. Together, they embark on a heartwarming adventure, determined to show the cat that Christmas is about more than just decorations and gifts—it's about love, kindness, and reaching out to those who need it most.

Perfect for children ages 4-8, this beautifully illustrated story promotes important messages about compassion, making a difference, and embracing the spirit of giving. Cozy up with your little ones and share this delightful holiday story that will warm hearts and inspire smiles.

Inspired by the imagination of 7-year-old Kairi and brought to life with the loving guidance of her Nana, April Cox, A Little Labradoodle Christmas combines the wonder of a child's perspective with the craftsmanship of a seasoned storyteller. As the fourth installment in The Little Labradoodle series, this charming tale will resonate with young readers and families alike.

Don't miss out on this heartwarming holiday tale! Order your copy today and share the magic of Christmas with your little ones.

33 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 5, 2024

26 people are currently reading
13 people want to read

About the author

April M. Cox

10 books41 followers

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5 stars
58 (56%)
4 stars
25 (24%)
3 stars
13 (12%)
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3 (2%)
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3 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
Profile Image for Casey Reads 🌸.
444 reviews441 followers
November 2, 2024
I felt like reading a children’s christmas book to give me some cute Christmas cheer. The pictures in this were so vivid. It’s about a girl and her dogs who find a grinch-y cat who hates Christmas. They convince the cat why Christmas is special. Very cute!

Thank you to netgalley for this free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Linda Galella.
1,051 reviews105 followers
December 14, 2024
Much more about a cranky, Christmas hating cat named Casper than a bunch of Labradoodles.

A LITTLE LABRADOODLE CHRISTMAS is a seasonal picture book written in rough rhyme. With bright, engaging pictures to accompany the text, it’s really frustrating to try to read it on a smartphone because it will not display in landscape position where the images would be so much larger and two page spreads could be viewed at the same time. This issue doesn’t exist when reading on a tablet, thankfully.

Good themes of friendship, caring, kindness, love and family are woven into a Christmas background, (a trimmed tree, lighted hearth and family dinner), while Kairi and her doodles try to integrate Casper, the cat, into their family📚
Profile Image for Gaby G.
499 reviews68 followers
November 9, 2024
Posted at Oh My Books!
Thank you Netgalley for providing a copy for review.

As the holiday season approaches, I've been reading more Christmas books and I love when I found one that not only tells a festive story but also teaches values. A Little Labradoodle Christmas, written by April M. Cox and illustrated by Remesh Ram, does exactly that.

This charming picture book centers around a young girl and her Labradoodles as they try to bring holiday cheer to a grumpy cat. The story unfolds through delightful rhymes that keep young readers engaged, while the vibrant illustrations capture the warmth and excitement of the season. 

The main themes of the book—kindness, friendship, and family—are woven in a way that feels simple and accessible for children. By watching the young girl and her furry companions, children learn the importance of making others feel safe and welcome. In a world where kindness can sometimes feel scarce, A Little Labradoodle Christmas is a timely reminder of the power of small gestures and open hearts.

If you’re in search of a holiday gift that combines charm, wisdom, and the spirit of Christmas, this book is a wonderful choice. I haven't read the other books of the series but I'm sure all of them are cute. Make sure to add it to your holiday reading list!
Profile Image for Iris.
20 reviews1 follower
December 20, 2024
Good message

Everyone deserves to have a good Christmas, to belong, and feel loved. I’m glad Casper got to join the family.
Profile Image for Papergirl.
308 reviews8 followers
November 15, 2024
Thank you to April M. Cox, Kairi Fullerton, Remesh Ram, BooksGoSocial, and Netgalley for the Advanced Reader Copy. Here follows my review of the book.

On a walk with her labradoodles shortly before Christmas, Kairi spies a grumpy Casper the cat, who appears to want to put a dampener on everyone’s fun. Having cajoled him home, Kairi and the pups try to involve Casper in festive activities, but he is having none of it. Why has Christmas got Casper feeling so glum? And can Kairi and co. do anything to change Casper’s mood?

Hats off to Nana April Cox and 7-year-old Kairi for their 4th installment of the labradoodle series. They have clearly found a winning partnership and some star leading characters to help bring their stories to life.

The charming little picture book can be a little choppy with its rhythm at times due to the authors trying to squash or stretch sentences into the rhyming couplets they have devised throughout the story. I did feel like I was tripped up often at times, particularly in the beginning. That said, the actual plot was considered and well-paced. I liked how we were introduced to Casper and how the narrative switched from being about Kairi and het pets to taking up the baton with Casper’s background.

More than anything else, I absolutely loved the illustrations. I’m not sure where the characters live and are celebrating the festive season because it was wonderfully bright and vibrant, if a little wet from the rain but the pictures were enticing all the same. There were collections of wonderful double spreads, single page pictures and even some pictures within pictures that supported the text perfectly. I think I would buy any book Ram illustrated just for the joy their vision gave me whilst reading.

I can imagine youngsters under 5 years of age giggling along to this and enjoying it all year round, especially at Christmas. I also love how it gives meaning to Christmas for children (sans the religious aspect). Overall, this is a cute book, and a wonderful read that would have benefitted from a more refined text to improve the rhythm, but readable just the same. A strong 4/5.
Profile Image for June Price.
Author 7 books81 followers
December 1, 2024
Scrooge the Cat, er, Casper the Cat, has no use for Christmas. No matter what Kairi and her dogs do, Casper isn't swayed by their argument of how wonderful the holiday season is. Brought to us from the minds of a grandmother and grand-daugher team of April M. Cox and Kairi Fullerton, this is a charming story of acceptance and inclusion, albeit it isn't easy. It's also a subtle nod to the all too common habit of some of getting an adorable kitten or puppy for Christmas, then abandoning it the next year for a new version. As it turns out, it's only when Kairi realizes Casper's back story, he's a once loved, now homeless cat, and stops trying to force him to be joyful that things turn for the better. Will Casper find a forever home, perhaps with Kairi and her dogs and family? Given the title, I'm sure you know the answer to that.

I loved the illustrations. Kairi and the two dogs are initially shown in bright, colorful settings while Casper's presence is seen in darker, more somber tones. That, of course, changes over the book. The rhythmical narration mostly works, luring in children to enjoy the story and fun illustrations, many of which run to a double spread. Kudos to illustrator Remesh Ram for so nicely capturing the emotions and growth of bond between Casper and his new-found friends, friends he didn't realize he needed. I liked that it was only when Kairi accepted Casper where he was, angry, hurt, lonely, and distrustful, that they were able to find a bond. That's a good lesson for us all, not to try too hard to make things about our own wants and needs but to listen to others. The inclusion of Kairi's human family at the end, who seem an interesting mix, adds to the sense of family and togetherness. Thanks #BooksGoSocial for introducing me to this series early. I can't believe I've missed it until now.
Profile Image for Monika.
Author 20 books18 followers
December 12, 2025
A Rhyming Holiday Story About Softening a Grumpy Heart

A Little Labradoodle Christmas by April M. Cox and Kairi Fullerton is a playful, rhyming Christmas picture book that explores what happens when holiday excitement meets someone who wants nothing to do with it. While festive energy fills the air, Casper the cat makes it clear that Christmas is not his favorite time of year. This contrast immediately draws children in, as they recognize both sides — the joy of celebration and the feeling of wanting to be left out.

Rather than turning Casper into the joke, the story treats his grumpiness with care. A kind-hearted girl and two enthusiastic Labradoodles decide that no one should feel alone during the holidays. Through patience, inclusion, and small thoughtful gestures, they gently invite Casper into the season. The rhyming text keeps the story lively and engaging for read-alouds, while the message remains calm and reassuring: joy doesn’t have to be forced, and kindness works best when it’s offered, not demanded.

The illustrations by Remesh Ram add warmth and motion to the story, capturing both Casper’s changing expressions and the Labradoodles’ cheerful energy. The visual storytelling helps young readers follow emotional shifts without needing everything spelled out in words. A Little Labradoodle Christmas is a cozy holiday read that celebrates empathy, persistence, and the simple act of reaching out — making it a thoughtful addition to seasonal bookshelves at home or in the classroom.
Profile Image for Shan.
1,131 reviews3 followers
November 2, 2024
This book is so sweet and heartwarming, perfect for the holiday season! One of the two main things that I really liked about this story was the character development that we get, even in a short book. We learn about Casper's backstory and why he's so grumpy around Christmastime. This "origin story" wasn't too dark, and gives the reader just enough information to really appreciate the entire story and its well-thought-out plot. The other thing that worked for this book was the message. The holiday season is one of the best times to celebrate and teach kindness, and this book does a great job of doing that. I hope that young readers will be able to follow in Kairi's footsteps and be kind to those around them, even if the journey is hard. Kairi works through challenges and obstacles, and ends up with success in the end, which is such an important thing for little ones to see in the books they read. Lastly, the illustrations were warm, crisp, and colorful, and captured the joyful Christmas spirit on every page.
Bravo!
1 review
November 10, 2024
Looking for a holiday story that captures the spirit of kindness, belonging, and family tradition? A Little Labradoodle Christmas by April Cox and Kairi Fullerton is a perfect addition to your family’s seasonal reading, bringing warmth and togetherness to every page.

In this heartwarming tale, a grumpy, lonely cat has lost his holiday spirit, but two joyful Labradoodles and a compassionate little girl are determined to make him feel included. Through their kindness, they help him find a place where he truly belongs. The vibrant illustrations bring the story to life, with colors and scenes that capture the magic of the season, making it easy for children to connect with the characters.

Inspired by the imagination of 7-year-old Kairi and lovingly guided by her Nana, April Cox, this story combines the wonder of a child’s perspective with the warmth of a grandparent’s love. If you’re looking for a book that celebrates kindness, family, and the joy of reading together, this is a perfect choice for your holiday traditions.
Profile Image for Joey Susan.
1,268 reviews45 followers
December 4, 2024
Thank you so much to Booksgosocial & Little Labradoodle Publishing, LLC and Netgalley for the ebook to read and review.

Kairi is excited for Christmas, her two labradoodle pups are excited for Christmas, but Casper the cat is not. They decide to do something nice for him but it’s hard to make a grumpy cat happy. They soon learn why he doesn’t like Christmas time and what made him grumpy.

This was so adorable and it had a sweet message to it about the holiday season, about kindness and acceptance no matter what. It was very sweet and I know it would be a really loved book to many young readers.

I really adored Kairi she was so very sweet and caring, she just wanted everyone including the animals around her to feel all the magic of the season. The book had cute illustrations, I liked seeing what was happening alongside the story, when Casper is tangled in the lights made me laugh. A really good read especially for pet loving children and for the holiday season.
208 reviews1 follower
December 11, 2024
This is a sweet little story about a girl and her dogs who invite a grumpy kitty into their family for Christmas.

What I really liked about this book is how sweet the pups and little girl are. They didn't have to extend a welcome to a grumpy kitty, but they did. The lesson that readers can learn from this is quite joyful and needed in current times. I found myself falling in love with grumpy Casper every time he was on the page.

The illustrations were very bright and fun, and they almost remind me of the style that was popular in 80s cartoons. That gave the book a bit of a retro feel that this millennial really appreciated. The flow of the writing felt a little jumbled at times, but that happens with books with a rhyming scheme.

The end of the book had a QR code for a gift that ended up sending me a budget template. I'm not sure how that would translate into a gift for children. I also received a coloring book that was really nice and my daughter is excited to color it.
Profile Image for Marin ..
Author 13 books164 followers
March 29, 2025
A LITTLE LABRADOODLE CHRISTMAS ACTIVITY BOOK is a black-and-white, simple but full-of-fun activity book.
Although there is no spectacular storyline, the author created a publication that will keep young readers entertained and satisfied - the pages are peppered with mazes, crosswords, matching games, word searches, and more.
The visuals effectively depict the cute characters ; the illustrator's excellent work can encourage children's appreciation for art.
The book contains more than 30 pages of activities that can capture children's attention for hours, apart from developing and enhancing their reading skills.
The range of the book's critical thinking activities is wide enough to help youngsters develop concentration and learn to focus for extended periods, sharpening their skills while working independently.
Profile Image for Jessie (Saffity).
235 reviews4 followers
December 11, 2024
My daughter (5) and I very much enjoyed this book. The story had her thinking and talking about those who don't have as much as we do. She loved the pictures, and was especially happy when the kitty got his bow. She stated it was a 5 star book, and I agree. Seeing that the main character was based on a real little girl and that she helped write the story was something that caught my daughter's attention. When I asked her if she would like to read the book again she said "not right now, but maybe Saturday" (Saturday being her favourite day when she does her favourite things, so that was a vote towards it going into the regular rotation). The gift at the end was nice and we will be reading the additional book. I read this book as a free digital version through Netgalley.
Profile Image for Cheryl Malandrinos.
Author 4 books72 followers
December 18, 2024
Can Kairi and her labradoodles turn Casper’s grumpy behavior around for Christmas?

Grandmother Cox and granddaughter Fullerton collaborate on this rhyming story of a grumpy cat who thinks Christmas is a “Bah humbug!” Kairi and her labradoodles do their best, trying all sorts of ways to make Casper happy so he can embrace the spirit of the season.

A Little Labradoodle Christmas by April M. Cox and Kairi Fullerton is a sweet, funny, and delightful story of the season. As Kairi and her pups try to figure out a way to make Casper happy, that pesky cat is determined to dislike Christmas and everything about it. With colorful and eye-catching illustrations by Remesh Ram, A Little Labradoodle Christmas is bound to become a modern-day classic story of the season.
6 reviews
August 21, 2025
This is a heartwarming story that shows how kindness and understanding can make a difference in someone's life. Kairi and her two Labradoodles are sad because Casper, a cat on his own is very grumpy when Christmas is approaching. They offer him friendship and don't give up when he rejects their offers. They are determined to find a way to help him. After multiple attempts Casper finally tells them why he dislikes Christmas! Being welcomed into Kairi's family changes Casper's view about Christmas. Remesh Ram's illustrations are beautiful. They help to bring this wonderful story to life. I highly recommend this delightful book. Even though this story is set during the Christmas season, it can be read anytime! It's message about kindness and friendship is important any time of the year.
Profile Image for Kritikal Reading.
303 reviews33 followers
November 15, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

Looking for a twist on the classic Christmas Carol version of a "Scrooge meets festive joy"? You've come to the right place. It's a heartwarming little story — if you're familiar with the trope you know that there's a backstory reveal and then a happy ending. Christmas is a great time to do some cozy reading, and this one makes the list. My only concern is it's being called rhyming and I felt that wasn't quite a bull's eye shot.

I absolutely love to see grandparents write books for their grandkids. I'm actively on the hunt for Christmas books now, and this one will definitely be added to that list.
Profile Image for Ann Fleming.
Author 3 books15 followers
June 23, 2025
I admit that I wasn’t expecting “A Little Labradoodle Christmas” to be about a cat, but it was a delightful surprise. When Kairi and her Labradoodles come across a grumpy cat, who seems to hate Christmas, they set out to change his mind and open his heart. The initial attempts of showing and sharing are met with contempt, until at last they ask this grumpy cat just why he’s so miserable. Once they allow him to express himself and in doing so, gain a better understanding, everything starts to come together. This is a heartwarming story, with vibrant illustrations and a great message that will make a wonderful addition to any Christmas book collection.
Profile Image for Lucy Bozzi.
Author 11 books2 followers
November 10, 2024
A lovely book for little kids! The cat's journey from grumpiness to joy is beautifully told, showing how love and care can change even the most reluctant hearts. The family's kindness and warmth make Christmas a time of transformation for the cat, teaching children about the power of family and love for animals. The charming illustrations bring the holiday spirit to life, making the story even more delightful! A wonderful book to share with your little ones, it reminds us all of the true meaning of Christmas!
Profile Image for Kelly Young.
Author 41 books54 followers
November 14, 2024
A Little Labradoodle Christmas, written by April M. Cox and Kairi Fullerton with beautiful illustrations by Remesh Ram, is a delightful tale of compassion and warmth that is perfect for the holidays.
The verse is lyrical and fun, complimented perfectly by the bright and adorable characters and scenes sure to bring a smile to the face of even the most determined grump. This book would make an ideal Christmas eve gift for the whole family to enjoy.
Thank you for the ARC of #ALittleLabradoodleChristmas to #NetGalley.
9,133 reviews130 followers
November 24, 2024
A bright and summery Christmas book, where Scrooge has been replaced by a cat who has had past experiences of feeling alone and unloved over the holidays, and so is very reluctant to join in – until a girl and some labradoodle pups practically demand he does. They are one step away from bullying, but we might all need a bit of firm cajoling to get us to join in at times. This is all fairly decent stuff – I found none of it brilliant, but perfectly serviceable, with the rhyming narrative being well-sustained and cleverly conveyed. Three and a half stars.
Profile Image for Diana Wanek.
125 reviews2 followers
November 29, 2024
Sweet Christmas story

A sweet Christmas story about an abandoned Christmas pet. A bit more could have maybe gone into this theme since many pets seem to be Christmas gifts and then often loose their charm after the holidays. I was attracted to this story my the Labradoodle in the title. The illustrations to me did not look like Labradoodles and the story centered around the cat more in my opinion. Still a sweet story.
Profile Image for Ameliessa Richardson.
Author 5 books43 followers
April 12, 2025
A Little Labradoodle Christmas" is a delightful holiday gem! This heartwarming tale beautifully captures the true spirit of Christmas. The story of how a little girl and her playful Labradoodles spread kindness and cheer, even to a grumpy cat, is truly touching. The illustrations are charming and perfectly complement the story. This is a perfect book for families to share during the holiday season, filled with warmth, love, and the magic of giving.
Profile Image for Danielle LaRosa.
Author 29 books3 followers
June 13, 2025
A Little Labradoodle Christmas is a sweet and festive holiday story that will warm your heart. The illustrations are absolutely adorable—bright, cozy, and full of charm. One of my favorite parts was spotting the hidden mouse throughout the story, which added a fun and playful touch that young readers will love. This delightful Christmas book is perfect for cuddling up and reading together during the holiday season.
35 reviews1 follower
November 2, 2024
A lovely picture book for younger children to consider the meaning of giving at Christmas. Kairi and her pups decide to give a gift to a little someone they meet - but will they be able to bring the joy of Christmas to this stranger?
This is a well-written rhyming book and will delight many a young reader.
Profile Image for Mary Alice.
Author 4 books5 followers
November 5, 2024
What a delightful story of family, love and embracing others - even if it is a cat! When I saw the cover, I was drawn in to want to read it, and was not in the least disappointed. I loved the simplicity and creativity in the was the child wanted to show kindness and lift the heart of grumpy cat.

The engaging way the story is told will help other children see the heartfelt joy of showing love.
Profile Image for Margrit Strohmaier.
11 reviews1 follower
November 7, 2024
"A Little Labradoodle Christmas" is a heartwarming holiday story full of kindness and joy. With its fun rhymes and beautiful illustrations, it shows how little acts of love can make a big difference. Written by a grandmother and granddaughter, it has that cozy, family feel. It's perfect for reading together during the holidays.
Profile Image for Dr Kathleen Favaloro, DC PT.
Author 1 book5 followers
November 11, 2024
A great Christmas story for the whole family

What a darling story. I love the illustrations and the cute little characters, especially the grumpy cat. This fun and engaging story, with its Christmas traditions and message of kindness is a gem. I highly recommend this book for animal lovers, and kids of all ages. Dr. Kathleen M.
Profile Image for Jo.
972 reviews16 followers
November 15, 2024
I received an ARC for #ALittleLabradoodleChristmas from #NetGalley

A girl and her two labradoodles went out for walk when they accidently splashed mud into an old cat. The thoughtful girl did her best to make the cat happy afterwards. This is a story of winter and Christmas time, when warmth is shared and laughter filled the heart. A beautiful reminder for all of us.
Profile Image for Mary Hake.
Author 4 books412 followers
November 27, 2024
A fun picture book for the season featuring a grouchy cat and two adorable pups, who try to make the holiday a delight. The colorful illustrations bring the sweet story to life. The rhyming text adds enjoyment to reading aloud, although it could be smoother in places. I think children will want to read this any time of year. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Leah Orr.
Author 17 books367 followers
November 29, 2024
A beautifully illustrated rhyming Christmas tale. Kairi and her puppies have quite an adventure upon their walk in the rain when they come across an angry cat. When they bring the cat into their home, the adventure continues, and family fun ensues. A lovely story of inclusion and tenderness for the holidays.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews

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