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The Journey of Joseph Winter: A Christmas Fairy Tale
An inspirational Christmas story in the tradition of the holiday classics It’s a Wonderful Life and A Miracle on 34th Street.
Joseph Winter is a good and gentle man, but he carries with him the pain and regret of a childhood mistake.
When a package mysteriously arrives on his doorstep, he is invited on a trek that defies logic. Traveling far from his quaint home in St. Paul into the snowy landscapes of the Arctic, the journey takes him in search of the one man who may be able to help him find peace—Santa Claus.
Joseph Winter is a good and gentle man, but he carries with him the pain and regret of a childhood mistake.
When a package mysteriously arrives on his doorstep, he is invited on a trek that defies logic. Traveling far from his quaint home in St. Paul into the snowy landscapes of the Arctic, the journey takes him in search of the one man who may be able to help him find peace—Santa Claus.
170 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 30, 2014
113 people are currently reading
197 people want to read
About the author
John Anthony
2 books13 followersStep into a world of heartfelt storytelling with John Anthony, whose pen weaves nostalgic tales that resonate with the GenX generation. As an author, John Anthony captures the magic of growing up in the 70s and 80s, transporting readers back to cherished moments that defined an era.
Drawing inspiration from a lifetime of movie-watching and personal experiences, John Anthony's literary journey celebrates the joys, trials, and triumphs of the GenX era. Their works embrace the spirit of nostalgia, exploring the profound connections between pop culture, movies, music, and the indelible memories that shaped their own life journey.
With a heartfelt prose that speaks to the soul, John Anthony has penned stories that capture the essence of a generation and ignite the sparks of fond remembrance. From family-style adventures to tales of friendship and resilience, each page turns into a portal that transports readers back to the golden age of their youth.
Beyond the written word, John Anthony shares their passion and insight with an even wider audience through a new upcoming podcast. As the charming host, he delves into the cinematic treasures of the 80s and 90s, sharing personal reflections and insightful musings that resonate with fellow movie lovers and nostalgic hearts alike.
Join John Anthony on a literary and podcast journey that celebrates the power of nostalgia, the magic of movies, and the enduring bonds that define the GenX experience.
Drawing inspiration from a lifetime of movie-watching and personal experiences, John Anthony's literary journey celebrates the joys, trials, and triumphs of the GenX era. Their works embrace the spirit of nostalgia, exploring the profound connections between pop culture, movies, music, and the indelible memories that shaped their own life journey.
With a heartfelt prose that speaks to the soul, John Anthony has penned stories that capture the essence of a generation and ignite the sparks of fond remembrance. From family-style adventures to tales of friendship and resilience, each page turns into a portal that transports readers back to the golden age of their youth.
Beyond the written word, John Anthony shares their passion and insight with an even wider audience through a new upcoming podcast. As the charming host, he delves into the cinematic treasures of the 80s and 90s, sharing personal reflections and insightful musings that resonate with fellow movie lovers and nostalgic hearts alike.
Join John Anthony on a literary and podcast journey that celebrates the power of nostalgia, the magic of movies, and the enduring bonds that define the GenX experience.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 10, 2020
This story begins with Geraldine, an older woman who brings all of her family—children and grandchildren—together to share a story none of them have ever heard: the story of her brother, Joseph Winter.
“The mind of a child is one of the places all adults wish to exist again. Only there, surrounded by youthful innocence, do dreams never disappear.”
Joseph has been living his life with regret, missing out on all the possible joy in his life. As a child he said something to his mother that he's never been able take back, and it's haunted him for what feels like forever. When a mysterious package arrives at his door, he has no idea what's in store for him. Then a stranger appears and takes Joseph on a journey by train toward the North Pole where he revisits old memories, meets some very special people (including a sweet, young boy named Max), and in turn learns what it means to forgive.
"A person’s worth isn’t determined by the acceptance of others, or by how many possessions they have, but on their acceptance of themselves.”
This story is certainly unique, but in ways still reminded me of other Christmas favorites like A Christmas Carol and even The Polar Express with the journey to St. Nick.
This book went straight to my Christmas reading list after seeing it categorized as a fairy tale; however, the story didn't really feel like a fairytale to me, which was something I was hoping for. It still brought me to tears and I enjoyed the story regardless. With themes of love, family, and forgiveness, this turned out to be an enjoyable read and perfect for this Christmas season. I may even reread this with my children next Christmas.
4****
You can also see this review @www.readrantrockandroll.com
“The mind of a child is one of the places all adults wish to exist again. Only there, surrounded by youthful innocence, do dreams never disappear.”
Joseph has been living his life with regret, missing out on all the possible joy in his life. As a child he said something to his mother that he's never been able take back, and it's haunted him for what feels like forever. When a mysterious package arrives at his door, he has no idea what's in store for him. Then a stranger appears and takes Joseph on a journey by train toward the North Pole where he revisits old memories, meets some very special people (including a sweet, young boy named Max), and in turn learns what it means to forgive.
"A person’s worth isn’t determined by the acceptance of others, or by how many possessions they have, but on their acceptance of themselves.”
This story is certainly unique, but in ways still reminded me of other Christmas favorites like A Christmas Carol and even The Polar Express with the journey to St. Nick.
This book went straight to my Christmas reading list after seeing it categorized as a fairy tale; however, the story didn't really feel like a fairytale to me, which was something I was hoping for. It still brought me to tears and I enjoyed the story regardless. With themes of love, family, and forgiveness, this turned out to be an enjoyable read and perfect for this Christmas season. I may even reread this with my children next Christmas.
4****
You can also see this review @www.readrantrockandroll.com
December 8, 2020
4.5 stars rounded to 5 stars
Funny, I generally run like the wind from anything with a whiff of fantasy. Not this time of the year though. In fact, I surprised myself when I realized I was actively seeking it out. Maybe because reality has been so tough this year? Maybe. All I know is that when I read the fantastical blurb for The Journey of Joseph Winter I knew I had to read it.
This novella is even better than I thought it would be. It’s not a simple trip to the North Pole to break bread with Santa. It is SO much more than that. The theme of most of my Christmas reading this year has been “the true meaning of Christmas”, and this one has that in spades, hearts, diamonds, and clubs.
Joseph has major regrets. He has words, sharp bitter words, with his mother when he is young. He has not ever been able to shed the guilt and regret of those moments even though he is now in his early 30s. He feels like he is no good. Worthless. Inferior to all. And these feelings incapacitate him in a number of ways. One day he is offered a very strange invitation to go on a journey. After much thought and deliberation and the confidence that it is all a joke pulled a friend, he accepts the invitation. This is the beginning of Joseph’s redemptive soul-searching, life-affirming, and eventually life-saving adventure.
This is a glorious tale. The portrayal of the North Pole is striking. The main characters who aid Joseph in his journey, Timothy and Max, are wonderful. There is magic galore, and we find that one person’s magic can be another’s reality in a very good way.
This inspiring novella is appropriate for all age groups from I’d say around 7 to 107 years old. Highly recommended, especially for the holiday season.
Funny, I generally run like the wind from anything with a whiff of fantasy. Not this time of the year though. In fact, I surprised myself when I realized I was actively seeking it out. Maybe because reality has been so tough this year? Maybe. All I know is that when I read the fantastical blurb for The Journey of Joseph Winter I knew I had to read it.
This novella is even better than I thought it would be. It’s not a simple trip to the North Pole to break bread with Santa. It is SO much more than that. The theme of most of my Christmas reading this year has been “the true meaning of Christmas”, and this one has that in spades, hearts, diamonds, and clubs.
Joseph has major regrets. He has words, sharp bitter words, with his mother when he is young. He has not ever been able to shed the guilt and regret of those moments even though he is now in his early 30s. He feels like he is no good. Worthless. Inferior to all. And these feelings incapacitate him in a number of ways. One day he is offered a very strange invitation to go on a journey. After much thought and deliberation and the confidence that it is all a joke pulled a friend, he accepts the invitation. This is the beginning of Joseph’s redemptive soul-searching, life-affirming, and eventually life-saving adventure.
This is a glorious tale. The portrayal of the North Pole is striking. The main characters who aid Joseph in his journey, Timothy and Max, are wonderful. There is magic galore, and we find that one person’s magic can be another’s reality in a very good way.
This inspiring novella is appropriate for all age groups from I’d say around 7 to 107 years old. Highly recommended, especially for the holiday season.
December 19, 2020
4.5
A very heartwarming Christmas story... a short novella.
Joseph Winter is a grown man with some regrets from childhood that lay heavy on him, and because of this he’s been missing out on enjoying life.
One wintry day a package is left on his door, and then a stranger appears to take him on a journey, by train, towards the North Pole. He meets some very special people and on this journey and makes peace with the past.
Just lovely!
A couple quotes from the story:
“The mind of a child is one of the places all adults wish to exist again. Only there, surrounded by youthful innocence, do dreams never disappear.”
“A person’s worth isn’t determined by the acceptance of others, or by how many possessions they have, but on their acceptance of themselves.”
A very heartwarming Christmas story... a short novella.
Joseph Winter is a grown man with some regrets from childhood that lay heavy on him, and because of this he’s been missing out on enjoying life.
One wintry day a package is left on his door, and then a stranger appears to take him on a journey, by train, towards the North Pole. He meets some very special people and on this journey and makes peace with the past.
Just lovely!
A couple quotes from the story:
“The mind of a child is one of the places all adults wish to exist again. Only there, surrounded by youthful innocence, do dreams never disappear.”
“A person’s worth isn’t determined by the acceptance of others, or by how many possessions they have, but on their acceptance of themselves.”
December 14, 2020
Hallmark and Disney, eat your heart out! I love Christmas stories, and there’s nothing wrong with those traditional feel-good movies. But, thanks to a great recommendation, I’ve just finished a novella that rivals any of those holiday classics filmed by the well-known media giants. It was written by a Minnesota native, John Anthony, which I consider to be a plus, since I’ve spent most of my life in Minnesota. The Journey of Joseph Winter: A Christmas Fairy Tale is an enchanting story about a good, tender-hearted man who carries the burden of a mistake he made as a child. He compares himself to others and perceives himself as unworthy; it prevents him from living his life to the fullest.
On day, as Joseph berates himself for speaking harshly to a neighbor child, a mysterious package appears. Then he is visited by a stranger and is offered a chance to embark on a journey. He hesitates, believing it to be a prank by a co-worker. Yet, something in him urges him on. Despite his doubts and his fears along the way, he persists.
Joseph experiences many things for the first time. He is tempted more than once to give up and go home, but he forges on with his new friend and guide, Timothy, in search of Santa, as this is his quest. He finds himself reflecting upon his childhood memories, good and bad. He revisits his regrets and struggles to let them go.
When at last he and Timothy arrive at the end of the road, he is awed by the splendor before him. Mr. Anthony paints a glorious scene for the reader. It is simply magic!
There is a lesson in all of this. Joseph’s journey has taken him inward, back in time to his memories. He’s been shown his value and the love of his family in ways he never realized. His journey to find Santa has not only brought him wonder and adventure, but it has also brought him self-acceptance and peace. As readers, we come to see what a kind, caring man Joseph has grown to be.
It’s a spiritual journey for kids of all ages with candy canes and elves and so much more!
5 stars
On day, as Joseph berates himself for speaking harshly to a neighbor child, a mysterious package appears. Then he is visited by a stranger and is offered a chance to embark on a journey. He hesitates, believing it to be a prank by a co-worker. Yet, something in him urges him on. Despite his doubts and his fears along the way, he persists.
Joseph experiences many things for the first time. He is tempted more than once to give up and go home, but he forges on with his new friend and guide, Timothy, in search of Santa, as this is his quest. He finds himself reflecting upon his childhood memories, good and bad. He revisits his regrets and struggles to let them go.
When at last he and Timothy arrive at the end of the road, he is awed by the splendor before him. Mr. Anthony paints a glorious scene for the reader. It is simply magic!
There is a lesson in all of this. Joseph’s journey has taken him inward, back in time to his memories. He’s been shown his value and the love of his family in ways he never realized. His journey to find Santa has not only brought him wonder and adventure, but it has also brought him self-acceptance and peace. As readers, we come to see what a kind, caring man Joseph has grown to be.
It’s a spiritual journey for kids of all ages with candy canes and elves and so much more!
5 stars
December 26, 2024
A magical book. Finishing this read was a perfect ending to a love filled Christmas Day spent with my family.
December 20, 2020
Many life lessons found throughout this warm, delightful Christmas fairytale!
December 18, 2020
4.5 Stars
”A journey cannot exist without the steps it takes to get there.”
As Christmas approaches, Geraldine knows it is time for her to share a story with her family, her children as well as her grandchildren. A story of her family, of her brother, Joseph.
They arrive in three separate cars, their three daughters, their husbands and the grandchildren: Adam the oldest at ten, and the girls: Lacie, Maggie, Rachel, Harper, and baby Savana. Geraldine watches as their grandchildren spilled out of the backseats of three cars like colored jellybeans pouring out of a jar. Their house was now full, full of life and love. This was the year when she knew she would share Joseph’s story with their family. A brother none of her children or grandchildren had known, or known about.
Joseph, like many people, had been living his life quietly, not really joining in life, or seeking friends or a family of his own. He’s haunted by regrets, which makes him withdraw from life. One day, he is invited to go on a journey by a stranger, a journey in search of Santa Claus.
As I began reading this, I wondered where this story would take me, but it wasn’t long before the story shares the promise of what is to come. While Joseph is a bit withdrawn, he reaches out to a young boy on a train who he seems to see himself and his own childhood in. He offers him kindness when other passengers behave rudely toward him, offended by his less-than-fine shoes and clothing.
’You might say that true character is built from the things we do not have.’
This is a relatively short story, a total of 165 pages, with a sweet, if powerful, lovely message.
’Joy. Happiness. Goodwill. The desire to help others and the innate need to spread love. Those are powerful things. Simple, but formidable…It is a power this world needs right now.’
December 13, 2018
I'm an old softie for a Christmas tale. This is a heartwarming fairytale in the spirit of It's A Wonderful Life to remind one to recall beloved childhood memories, embrace what's good about our lives, and most of all to just enjoy the magical holiday spirit which surrounds us at Christmastime. 4 stars
December 26, 2024
A heartwarming and magical tale! I finished the book during the post-festivity laziness on Christmas Day. It was perfect timing and a great way to fit a little bit more magic into the day before returning to reality. 🎄
December 30, 2019
I went into this book looking for a cozy read and I got so much more! While the writing and characters tended to be simple, I was deeply touched by the story, the growth of the main character, and the life lessons the author shares through the characters. The amount of quotes I underlined in this book was 3 times that of larger books I have read — so much wisdom to be highlighted!
The world building at the end of the book was also delightful. I feel inspired to write my own Christmas related story after reading this one because the North Pole world was so imaginative.
This book also spoke to me in my recovery program. The main character’s emotional issues are similar to those people in recovery often have. So his healing and transformation were extra special to me. This book is deceptively simple for being so delightful and deep.
The world building at the end of the book was also delightful. I feel inspired to write my own Christmas related story after reading this one because the North Pole world was so imaginative.
This book also spoke to me in my recovery program. The main character’s emotional issues are similar to those people in recovery often have. So his healing and transformation were extra special to me. This book is deceptively simple for being so delightful and deep.
October 17, 2015
Joseph's story is one that every house should have.
I read this little book in a day. It had to be one of THE BEST Christmas stories that I have in long while. Joseph meeting Timothy and Max will make your heart sing, and give you hope that people have good in them.
It is must read for the holidays.
I read this little book in a day. It had to be one of THE BEST Christmas stories that I have in long while. Joseph meeting Timothy and Max will make your heart sing, and give you hope that people have good in them.
It is must read for the holidays.
December 11, 2020
Geraldine and her husband Tom were having a family Christmas with their children and grandchildren. It’s the Christmas Geraldine had been looking forward to for a long time. She was going to tell everyone about her younger brother, Joseph.
Joseph had lived with regret since he was a child. All those years ago he said something to his mother that he felt guilty about almost as soon as the words left his mouth. The memory of hurting her had eaten away at him, turning him into a grumpy, solitary man who tended to be severe and joyless. His true nature had been supressed for such a long time he’d forgetten how to be any other way. He lived alone in the family house that really wasn’t a home anymore. His parents had passed away and his sister was following her own path. Then one day he received a mysterious package. A package that would change his life. It contained a folder, a leather bound journal, a red pencil and a note telling him to expect a phone call the next day.
When the next day came, although he still wasn’t sure about the validity of the package, he took the phone call. Joseph had been selected to go on a journey. When he was told where the journey would take him, he believed it was a joke and he’d been set up by a co-worker. But the items in the package brought back the warmth and joy that used to fill the house when he was a child.
The journey wasn’t a smooth one for Joseph and more than once he thought about going home, but slowly the dawning awareness he began to feel turned into a healing process, his personal growth helped along by Timothy and Max as he relived key memories and helped others along the way. A moving and poignant story with relevant life lessons, of choices and consequences and the impact they have for better or worse. The Journey of Joseph Winter is an enchanting read.
Joseph had lived with regret since he was a child. All those years ago he said something to his mother that he felt guilty about almost as soon as the words left his mouth. The memory of hurting her had eaten away at him, turning him into a grumpy, solitary man who tended to be severe and joyless. His true nature had been supressed for such a long time he’d forgetten how to be any other way. He lived alone in the family house that really wasn’t a home anymore. His parents had passed away and his sister was following her own path. Then one day he received a mysterious package. A package that would change his life. It contained a folder, a leather bound journal, a red pencil and a note telling him to expect a phone call the next day.
When the next day came, although he still wasn’t sure about the validity of the package, he took the phone call. Joseph had been selected to go on a journey. When he was told where the journey would take him, he believed it was a joke and he’d been set up by a co-worker. But the items in the package brought back the warmth and joy that used to fill the house when he was a child.
The journey wasn’t a smooth one for Joseph and more than once he thought about going home, but slowly the dawning awareness he began to feel turned into a healing process, his personal growth helped along by Timothy and Max as he relived key memories and helped others along the way. A moving and poignant story with relevant life lessons, of choices and consequences and the impact they have for better or worse. The Journey of Joseph Winter is an enchanting read.
January 10, 2020
Es una historia muy bonita que no esperaba que me gustara, es muy simple pero llena de magia y amor.
A veces necesitamos historias así para regalarnos un momento de paz de tantas obligaciónes que tenemos, y la encuentro perfecta para leerla en diciembre (jaja sí la leí en enero pero es que no ne dio tiempo de leerla en diciembre).
Leí que pronto saldría una segunda parte y la verdad es que no creo que la lea porque, es otro de esos libros que de verdad siento que como autoconclusivo, funciona perfecto.
A veces necesitamos historias así para regalarnos un momento de paz de tantas obligaciónes que tenemos, y la encuentro perfecta para leerla en diciembre (jaja sí la leí en enero pero es que no ne dio tiempo de leerla en diciembre).
Leí que pronto saldría una segunda parte y la verdad es que no creo que la lea porque, es otro de esos libros que de verdad siento que como autoconclusivo, funciona perfecto.
January 18, 2020
A delightful fairy tale about one man's journey to the North Pole as he seeks his Christmas spirit.
January 1, 2025
A nice Christmas story of character growth and recovery from childhood trauma, set partly in St. Paul and -- I can't tell any more without spoilers. A fast and enjoyable Christmas book.
Read
December 29, 2020Very poor editing really turned me off this story. Unfinished.
December 6, 2024
I really enjoyed this novella. The theme is definitely a mix of 'It's A Wonderful Life' and 'Miracle on 34th Street'. Very touching story about forgiving oneself as well as remembering the importance of having faith enough to believe. This novella is now part of my Christmas reading traditions.
December 6, 2015
Joseph Winter has been guilt ridden for most of his life and miserable because of it. His mistake was in saying something horrendous to his mother. Something he could never take back. He felt guilty the moment he said it and now he takes that guilt out on others.
Years later Joseph finds a mysterious package on his doorstep that leads him on a path to redemption, at least in his own eyes. When Santa Claus shows him how to forgive himself Joseph learns a great deal about his life and his future.
Very enjoyable read.
Years later Joseph finds a mysterious package on his doorstep that leads him on a path to redemption, at least in his own eyes. When Santa Claus shows him how to forgive himself Joseph learns a great deal about his life and his future.
Very enjoyable read.
November 29, 2015
Sweet story
Lovely story of a man finding himself on a journey to the north pole in search of St. Nick. I think would be a good read aloud story for parents to share with young children.
Lovely story of a man finding himself on a journey to the north pole in search of St. Nick. I think would be a good read aloud story for parents to share with young children.
February 2, 2016
A delightfull return to the wonder and joy of childhood
This was a joyous return to the memories of Christmas as a child, when anything was possible. I loved it.
This was a joyous return to the memories of Christmas as a child, when anything was possible. I loved it.
December 12, 2018
Just right
I'm not having the best December. This book helped me to remember! It's short read that is well worth the time.
I'm not having the best December. This book helped me to remember! It's short read that is well worth the time.
February 12, 2020
A wonderful novella that gives the reader both the opportunity and a reason to relive special Christmases of their past. A delightful journey, indeed.
December 21, 2022
Sweet!
Very sweet and entertaining story. A nice, warm cozy Christmas read. Highly recommend for those that still believe in Santa. Like me!
Very sweet and entertaining story. A nice, warm cozy Christmas read. Highly recommend for those that still believe in Santa. Like me!
January 2, 2019
Fills you with the magic of Christmas!
What a uniquely written story! Part “modern”, part flashback/ history/storytelling, elderly Geraldine brings all of her dear ones near to hear the story of her brother Joseph. Joseph was a bitter recluse who had forgotten all of the things that brought him joy. Then a stranger appears, inviting him on a mysterious journey, and Joseph reconnects with beautiful memories, intriguing people & magical places. Definitely worth the read, & is sure to have you catching a whiff of sugar cookies in the air!
What a uniquely written story! Part “modern”, part flashback/ history/storytelling, elderly Geraldine brings all of her dear ones near to hear the story of her brother Joseph. Joseph was a bitter recluse who had forgotten all of the things that brought him joy. Then a stranger appears, inviting him on a mysterious journey, and Joseph reconnects with beautiful memories, intriguing people & magical places. Definitely worth the read, & is sure to have you catching a whiff of sugar cookies in the air!
November 20, 2018
I liked the book, very simple little story. Mid way through, it was losing my interest but I am glad I stuck with it. It was chosen for our book club so I felt I had to finish it. The last part, when it came together, made it all worth it. Wonderful message, well worth the read but not the best written story for the holidays I have ever read but a quick easy read with a wonderful theme!
December 12, 2018
The Meaning of Christmas Is in Our hearts!
A simple family story becomes a statement of what Christmas means. That meaning is found deep within each of us. Read the story of Joseph’s amazing journey, then take a look at Christmas through different eyes. It’s a great way to begin the Christmas season that takes you all the way through Christmas Day.
A simple family story becomes a statement of what Christmas means. That meaning is found deep within each of us. Read the story of Joseph’s amazing journey, then take a look at Christmas through different eyes. It’s a great way to begin the Christmas season that takes you all the way through Christmas Day.
January 3, 2021
This was a cute book I received as a Christmas gift a few years ago and finally got around to reading this holiday season. The story was sweet and the writing was simple. I feel this may be more suited as a children's book and could make for a good family read aloud with young ones. The fact that it pulled on my own Christmas nostalgia mad me like it alright.
December 27, 2023
Pursue the Journey
An enjoyable tale of learning to understand our memories; some of which, we can cloud hiding the truth of them.
As in the novella, we all have journeys to pursue. Luckily for us, Joseph shows us how to do this, even when fear works to stop us. Relax, and have fun with The Journey of Joseph Winter for it is a magical tale of love.
An enjoyable tale of learning to understand our memories; some of which, we can cloud hiding the truth of them.
As in the novella, we all have journeys to pursue. Luckily for us, Joseph shows us how to do this, even when fear works to stop us. Relax, and have fun with The Journey of Joseph Winter for it is a magical tale of love.
July 4, 2018
The spirit of the holidays
Such a sweet lil story about believing in the magic of Mr Claus and yourself, and a dash about forgiveness. I’m reading it in June but I’ll read it again closer to Christmas
Such a sweet lil story about believing in the magic of Mr Claus and yourself, and a dash about forgiveness. I’m reading it in June but I’ll read it again closer to Christmas
December 5, 2018
I read this in an afternoon. I LOVED this fairytale story for Christmas. It will be a good one to reread every year. A great reminder to appreciate all you have and have had and to create your own story. Santa Claus is real?????
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews