What do you think?
Rate this book
Vánoční překvapení
Méďa – rozpustilé štěně retrívra – je vzrušením bez sebe! Utekl z domova, kde se mu vůbec nelíbilo, a čeká ho dobrodružství, po kterém už dlouho touží. Jenže prvotní nadšení velmi brzy opadne. Když se unavený, hladový a promrzlý uloží na rohožku před domkem Woodsových, netuší, že tím změní život sobě i jim. Klára, Ben a jejich dcerka Emily právě prožívají velmi těžké období. Emily je vážně nemocná a nezbedné štěně, které tropí jednu neplechu za druhou, je to poslední, co by chtěli rodiče v hektickém předvánočním čase řešit. Jenže Méďa to nevzdává. Našel rodinu svých snů a spolu s Emily hodlají rodičům dokázat, že tahle chlupatá pohroma je tím nejlepším vánočním dárkem, který rodina mohla dostat…
256 pages, Hardcover
13 people are currently reading
227 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
December 13, 2017
A runaway puppy, a sick ten-year-old girl, Christmas...sounds like a lovable, heartwarming tale, doesn’t it? And it is, mostly. The Christmas Guest by Daisy Bell features Teddy, who starts out in life known as Mr. Snuggles. He’s an adorable pup who doesn’t really fit in with his upscale city parents. He decides to go out exploring on his own and gets lost, very, very lost.
He winds up many miles away on the doorstep of the Woods family, mom Claire, dad Ben, and young daughter Emily. Emily has been quite ill with meningitis, and our lovable pooch soon gets the idea that the last thing these people want or need is a boisterous, untrained puppy to care for. Except Emily. Emily is smitten with him and names him Teddy. She begs to keep him. Claire takes a “wait and see” attitude, but Ben is fairly certain that Teddy’s stay will be a short one.
Teddy finds this family to be much more welcoming and down-to-earth than the human parents he left behind. Apparently, they don’t miss him. He’s a very intuitive, perceptive little doggy who senses that Emily really needs him. He also knows that her parents are sad and troubled, and eventually, he comes to feel that they need him too, even though they may not know it yet.
Poor Teddy! He tries so hard to fit in and to behave. He’s afraid that if he causes trouble, Ben will make him leave. He does get into trouble, of course, and sometimes even Claire has difficulty defending him. His darling Emily always comes to his rescue, however, and it becomes obvious to her parents that Teddy’s presence is making a difference in their daughter’s life. Will it be enough to help her regain her health and her strength? Will Ben finally relent and let Teddy become part of the family? What about Martha, the grumpy cat who hates Teddy? Will there ever be peace between them?
This little story is amusing, tender, and warm – all the things that a Christmas story should be. What I found somewhat vexing was that the entire story is told in first person from Teddy’s perspective. Teddy’s voice, however, is much too mature and analytical for a young puppy. I felt like I was listening to Ben rather than Teddy. That doesn’t change my impression that yes, indeed, as Claire and Ben both said, Teddy is a “remarkable” puppy.
3.5 stars
He winds up many miles away on the doorstep of the Woods family, mom Claire, dad Ben, and young daughter Emily. Emily has been quite ill with meningitis, and our lovable pooch soon gets the idea that the last thing these people want or need is a boisterous, untrained puppy to care for. Except Emily. Emily is smitten with him and names him Teddy. She begs to keep him. Claire takes a “wait and see” attitude, but Ben is fairly certain that Teddy’s stay will be a short one.
Teddy finds this family to be much more welcoming and down-to-earth than the human parents he left behind. Apparently, they don’t miss him. He’s a very intuitive, perceptive little doggy who senses that Emily really needs him. He also knows that her parents are sad and troubled, and eventually, he comes to feel that they need him too, even though they may not know it yet.
Poor Teddy! He tries so hard to fit in and to behave. He’s afraid that if he causes trouble, Ben will make him leave. He does get into trouble, of course, and sometimes even Claire has difficulty defending him. His darling Emily always comes to his rescue, however, and it becomes obvious to her parents that Teddy’s presence is making a difference in their daughter’s life. Will it be enough to help her regain her health and her strength? Will Ben finally relent and let Teddy become part of the family? What about Martha, the grumpy cat who hates Teddy? Will there ever be peace between them?
This little story is amusing, tender, and warm – all the things that a Christmas story should be. What I found somewhat vexing was that the entire story is told in first person from Teddy’s perspective. Teddy’s voice, however, is much too mature and analytical for a young puppy. I felt like I was listening to Ben rather than Teddy. That doesn’t change my impression that yes, indeed, as Claire and Ben both said, Teddy is a “remarkable” puppy.
3.5 stars
December 17, 2016
Teddy, aka “Mr. Snuggles” begins his life as most puppies do, surrounded by a litter of brothers and sisters with the mother dog busily prepares them for life beyond this little nest where she can control things. Soon enough, this puppy is whisked away from his birth home by a happy, excited young man who brings him home to his young wife. A decision discussed beforehand, but her early Christmas present. She names him “Mr. Snuggles” and tries to dress him in a pink jacket, doesn’t seem to understand that a golden retriever won’t fit in her purse for long, or that he needs to be walked, trained, or really anything about what goes into raising a puppy.
And then she leaves a box out in reach, a box containing a pair of shoes. Not any shoes, of course. Louboutans. Yummy.
Shortly thereafter, Mr. Snuggles is “let out of the car” on a trip to the “countryside” to relieve himself. It isn’t terribly long before he realizes his humans and their car are nowhere to be seen.
Night falls. And another. He finds a house and sleeps by the door. Fortunately, the owners are kind and take him in until they can find his real owners. They aren’t really at a place in time where a dog for them is feasible, with a daughter who needs extra care.
What follows is the story of how Mr. Snuggles becomes Teddy, is saved, and saves in return.
The first 20% or so of this I was still on the fence. The writing is satisfactory. The story was a bit ….too precious. After that, the story does veer toward a little more realistic, but it does remain a seriously sentimental story.
This story is told from Teddy’s perspective. You read his frustrations, his fears, his processing how to interact with the family cat, the not-very-nice neighbor, how to win over people who aren’t his biggest fan, and most of all his overriding love and concern for young Emily. It’s okay – but it’s not “The Art of Racing in the Rain,” nor is Teddy like Enzo. Some are amusing, some are sweet, some are meant to tug at your heartstrings.
Cute. Sweet. Sometimes that’s enough.
And then she leaves a box out in reach, a box containing a pair of shoes. Not any shoes, of course. Louboutans. Yummy.
Shortly thereafter, Mr. Snuggles is “let out of the car” on a trip to the “countryside” to relieve himself. It isn’t terribly long before he realizes his humans and their car are nowhere to be seen.
Night falls. And another. He finds a house and sleeps by the door. Fortunately, the owners are kind and take him in until they can find his real owners. They aren’t really at a place in time where a dog for them is feasible, with a daughter who needs extra care.
What follows is the story of how Mr. Snuggles becomes Teddy, is saved, and saves in return.
The first 20% or so of this I was still on the fence. The writing is satisfactory. The story was a bit ….too precious. After that, the story does veer toward a little more realistic, but it does remain a seriously sentimental story.
This story is told from Teddy’s perspective. You read his frustrations, his fears, his processing how to interact with the family cat, the not-very-nice neighbor, how to win over people who aren’t his biggest fan, and most of all his overriding love and concern for young Emily. It’s okay – but it’s not “The Art of Racing in the Rain,” nor is Teddy like Enzo. Some are amusing, some are sweet, some are meant to tug at your heartstrings.
Cute. Sweet. Sometimes that’s enough.
December 11, 2017
The Christmas Guest is the perfect read for this time of year. It’s a book that will certainly appeal to a wide range of age groups.
As soon as we meet Teddy I was hopelessly in love with him. I loved getting inside a dogs mind, especially a puppy and seeing what they make of the world. Luckily he gets away from his original owner to find a lovely forever family. Things don’t go so smoothly though.
The family that Teddy finds himself living with are all lovely people. I loved each of the characters as they all bring something different to the story. Emily is someone else who will tug on the readers heart strings. All the family are struggling to deal with Emily’s illness and Teddy brings a much welcome relief to them all.
The Christmas Guest may be set at the coldest time of the year but what is contained within those pages would melt the coldest of hearts. A heart warming and truly wonderful festive read that animal lovers are going to adore.
My thanks to Bookbridgr and Quercus books for a copy of the book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
As soon as we meet Teddy I was hopelessly in love with him. I loved getting inside a dogs mind, especially a puppy and seeing what they make of the world. Luckily he gets away from his original owner to find a lovely forever family. Things don’t go so smoothly though.
The family that Teddy finds himself living with are all lovely people. I loved each of the characters as they all bring something different to the story. Emily is someone else who will tug on the readers heart strings. All the family are struggling to deal with Emily’s illness and Teddy brings a much welcome relief to them all.
The Christmas Guest may be set at the coldest time of the year but what is contained within those pages would melt the coldest of hearts. A heart warming and truly wonderful festive read that animal lovers are going to adore.
My thanks to Bookbridgr and Quercus books for a copy of the book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
November 27, 2016
The Christmas Guest is one of the most adorable books I’ve ever read – it’s short and sweet and funny and charming, and ADORABLE. And why are there not more books written with the voice of a puppy? WHY WHY WHY WHY WHY? Because they would be amazing and that’s legit all I would read for the rest of my life, because puppies are just the greatest thing in the world. We have dogs, but we’ve never had a puppy, which makes me sad because they’re just fluffy and small and cute and mischievous. (Mind you, our full growns dogs are all of that, too!)
I loved how Teddy just bundled into the Woods’ lives and caused absolute chaos – unintentional chaos, but chaos nonetheless and he did it in his adorable way that I would never have been able to stay angry with him, seriously. But, in all seriousness, I loved the way he pulled the family together, proving once and for all that dogs really can heal all ills, and mend families and pull families together, and I just loved every page.
This is genuinely one of the sweetest books I’ve ever read. My heart felt like it was fit to burst and every time Teddy did something wrong, accidentally most of the time, my heart was in my mouth, hoping they wouldn’t send him away. I loved how Teddy helped the family, how much he meant to little Emily, who I wanted to hug, and proves once again that a puppy isn’t just for Christmas, it’s for life. *Happy sigh*
I loved how Teddy just bundled into the Woods’ lives and caused absolute chaos – unintentional chaos, but chaos nonetheless and he did it in his adorable way that I would never have been able to stay angry with him, seriously. But, in all seriousness, I loved the way he pulled the family together, proving once and for all that dogs really can heal all ills, and mend families and pull families together, and I just loved every page.
This is genuinely one of the sweetest books I’ve ever read. My heart felt like it was fit to burst and every time Teddy did something wrong, accidentally most of the time, my heart was in my mouth, hoping they wouldn’t send him away. I loved how Teddy helped the family, how much he meant to little Emily, who I wanted to hug, and proves once again that a puppy isn’t just for Christmas, it’s for life. *Happy sigh*
November 19, 2016
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
Whilst the cover of the book is cuteness overload, do not, under any circumstances, be fooled by the cute pup on the front. I was, I must admit. I fell under the little pups spell straight away, I mean, how could anyone not! Look at its cutie little face! The storyline itself, however, doesn't follow in the same vein though (if that makes sense). It has a lot more guts and dynamic oozing from it, than the cover could ever reveal. To be fair actually, the cover doesn't reveal any clues except a puppy. Very cleverly put together in my opinion.
Meet Teddy, a puppy which has been given a new home with human parents instead of his own doggy mummy and family. At first he finds it exciting as there are new places and smells to explore. The excitement doesn't seem to last too long though and soon enough, Teddy takes matters into his own paws and goes on a new adventure, away from his new home. Oh the things that Teddy sees! Teddy's little legs can only do so much and before long, he needs to find a place to sleep and some comfort for his puppy tummy. Unfortunately, there are no puppy versions of Premier Inns and Teddy has to make do with a doorstep. Could the doorstep he chose, end up being the doorstep to puppy happiness?
If you have ever wondered what life is like from dog level, here is your chance! As I'm sure you've noticed, most books seem to be written from the eyes of a human. However, 'The Christmas Guest' sees the readers following the storyline in the eyes of the puppy, Teddy. Every experience that Teddy has, readers may find themselves emotionally involved with everything that he comes up against; including snow. I'll be honest, I did find myself going 'awwww!!!!' quite a few times as I was reading the book. It is a bit hard to not find Teddy's antics rather cute yet quite sad. For a small puppy, he does have a bit of a tough start in life.
After Teddy wakes up on the doorstep, it isn't long before he realises that his role in that particular household is more than to just being a puppy. Emily is poorly and there only seems to be one bundle of love that could help her this Christmas. As soon as I realised that the storyline was going to go on a bit of a rollercoaster ride, nothing could prepare me for how bump the ride was going to be.
'The Christmas Guest' is a book completely different to those that I have read before. The emotional edge the storyline contained was extremely evident and often took me aback. I completely underestimated the power behind a four-legged friend and the love that they wish to give. I was flabbergasted, emotional and felt as though I was walking on air by the time that I had finished the book. unbelievably written, 'The Christmas Guest' is such a unique and poignant book to read this Christmas, ideal for anyone, and everyone. An absolute pleasure to read, thank you Quercus books for giving me the opportunity.
Whilst the cover of the book is cuteness overload, do not, under any circumstances, be fooled by the cute pup on the front. I was, I must admit. I fell under the little pups spell straight away, I mean, how could anyone not! Look at its cutie little face! The storyline itself, however, doesn't follow in the same vein though (if that makes sense). It has a lot more guts and dynamic oozing from it, than the cover could ever reveal. To be fair actually, the cover doesn't reveal any clues except a puppy. Very cleverly put together in my opinion.
Meet Teddy, a puppy which has been given a new home with human parents instead of his own doggy mummy and family. At first he finds it exciting as there are new places and smells to explore. The excitement doesn't seem to last too long though and soon enough, Teddy takes matters into his own paws and goes on a new adventure, away from his new home. Oh the things that Teddy sees! Teddy's little legs can only do so much and before long, he needs to find a place to sleep and some comfort for his puppy tummy. Unfortunately, there are no puppy versions of Premier Inns and Teddy has to make do with a doorstep. Could the doorstep he chose, end up being the doorstep to puppy happiness?
If you have ever wondered what life is like from dog level, here is your chance! As I'm sure you've noticed, most books seem to be written from the eyes of a human. However, 'The Christmas Guest' sees the readers following the storyline in the eyes of the puppy, Teddy. Every experience that Teddy has, readers may find themselves emotionally involved with everything that he comes up against; including snow. I'll be honest, I did find myself going 'awwww!!!!' quite a few times as I was reading the book. It is a bit hard to not find Teddy's antics rather cute yet quite sad. For a small puppy, he does have a bit of a tough start in life.
After Teddy wakes up on the doorstep, it isn't long before he realises that his role in that particular household is more than to just being a puppy. Emily is poorly and there only seems to be one bundle of love that could help her this Christmas. As soon as I realised that the storyline was going to go on a bit of a rollercoaster ride, nothing could prepare me for how bump the ride was going to be.
'The Christmas Guest' is a book completely different to those that I have read before. The emotional edge the storyline contained was extremely evident and often took me aback. I completely underestimated the power behind a four-legged friend and the love that they wish to give. I was flabbergasted, emotional and felt as though I was walking on air by the time that I had finished the book. unbelievably written, 'The Christmas Guest' is such a unique and poignant book to read this Christmas, ideal for anyone, and everyone. An absolute pleasure to read, thank you Quercus books for giving me the opportunity.
January 12, 2018
Really nice fireside read. The strange part is the narrator is through the eyes of Teddy (the puppy). I really enjoyed this and the first book I have read all through in a long time.
January 27, 2018
Ein nettes Buch, welches an den Weihnachtsfeiertagen sicher besser zur Stimmung gepasst hätte.
December 19, 2017
I love this book!! It’s like the perfect tale for Christmas, and reminds me of all those heart warming Christmas movies! A puppy finds himself alone in the cold countryside just a week before Christmas. He decided to run away from home, to have a great adventure, but now he feels terrible, cold and lonely, until he meets the Woods family.
This book has such a heart warming story that it’s perfect for any age to read it. Told in the first person with the puppy being the narrator it begins with a quick prologue of the puppy being all alone and beginning to regret its decision to run away. This is then followed by the first chapter, titled ‘Eight Days Until Christmas’, every chapter after that is another day before Christmas. The whole story takes place over the course of just one week but every day is filled with so much happening.
Teddy, as the puppy later becomes known, is a very cute little puppy but is also untrained and doesn’t understand the human world that well. He finds himself on the doorstep of the Woods family home and desperately wants to be a part of their family, but the family have problems of their own and he can’t help but create all sorts of trouble in the way that puppies do. There is something really fun and unique about the story being told from the point of view of the dog and it’s this that really makes the book a fun read. It also puts an interesting perspective on the way humans do things and our interactions with pets and in particular dogs.
As the story progresses you learn about Emily, the Woods’ daughter and how sick she is. Teddy knows he is supposed to be the family dog, but with Emily’s illness the family find it hard enough to take care of their daughter and Teddy has an uphill struggle to convince the family that he is meant to be their dog. I won’t reveal more of the plot but the way the story plays out is just lovely and also very engrossing. Not only does Teddy have to deal with getting the family to accept him but there are also moments with other animals, especially a cat named Martha which led to some funny things happening in the story. There is a lovely backstory to Teddy’s previous life in the first chapter which makes you laugh but also feel for this poor puppy who just wants to be loved and accepted.
I loved reading this story right until it’s lovely end, the fact that so much happens in just one day really drove me on to continue reading and although I wasn’t sure I was going to be that into the book when I started reading it, I soon found I couldn’t put it down, desperately wanting to know what would happen next. The story has some lovely and funny moments, especially when Teddy observes things that humans do or say without understanding them. There are also some tenser, sadder moments which keep you reading until the end to see if things do work out the way you hope.
Although the ending is predictably happy, I really didn’t mind with this book and there are still moments when you don’t know what will happen. The overall story is such an uplifting one though, it’s like the perfect Christmas tale. It not only puts a smile on your face but also makes you tear up at the end too. The book is perfect for any age to read as there’s nothing at all offensive and I think many ages will enjoy this story. Part of me wishes it would be turned into a film just so I could see the cute puppy and the lovely tale unfold!
At the back of the book there’s a Christmas interview with the author, with Christmas related questions, along with recipes not only for human Christmas treats but dog ones too, and how to make a dog toy which is just a wonderful extra to get before Christmas! There is also an added piece of text talking about the history and comeback of the Christmas jumper which I have to say I found interesting as it’s fascinated me how they are popular again after being laughed at when I was young.
I would recommend to anyone who wants the perfect book to read for Christmas. There is nothing bad I can say about this book, it’s a funny, cosy and a heart warming read and perfect for anyone but especially those that love animals. It’s also one of those sort of ‘Christmas miracle’ type stories which make you smile and with a tale told from the point of view of the puppy, it’s just such an amazing and lovely read! Plus the cover is just too cute!!!
-Thanks to Bookbridgr and the publisher for a free copy.
This book has such a heart warming story that it’s perfect for any age to read it. Told in the first person with the puppy being the narrator it begins with a quick prologue of the puppy being all alone and beginning to regret its decision to run away. This is then followed by the first chapter, titled ‘Eight Days Until Christmas’, every chapter after that is another day before Christmas. The whole story takes place over the course of just one week but every day is filled with so much happening.
Teddy, as the puppy later becomes known, is a very cute little puppy but is also untrained and doesn’t understand the human world that well. He finds himself on the doorstep of the Woods family home and desperately wants to be a part of their family, but the family have problems of their own and he can’t help but create all sorts of trouble in the way that puppies do. There is something really fun and unique about the story being told from the point of view of the dog and it’s this that really makes the book a fun read. It also puts an interesting perspective on the way humans do things and our interactions with pets and in particular dogs.
As the story progresses you learn about Emily, the Woods’ daughter and how sick she is. Teddy knows he is supposed to be the family dog, but with Emily’s illness the family find it hard enough to take care of their daughter and Teddy has an uphill struggle to convince the family that he is meant to be their dog. I won’t reveal more of the plot but the way the story plays out is just lovely and also very engrossing. Not only does Teddy have to deal with getting the family to accept him but there are also moments with other animals, especially a cat named Martha which led to some funny things happening in the story. There is a lovely backstory to Teddy’s previous life in the first chapter which makes you laugh but also feel for this poor puppy who just wants to be loved and accepted.
I loved reading this story right until it’s lovely end, the fact that so much happens in just one day really drove me on to continue reading and although I wasn’t sure I was going to be that into the book when I started reading it, I soon found I couldn’t put it down, desperately wanting to know what would happen next. The story has some lovely and funny moments, especially when Teddy observes things that humans do or say without understanding them. There are also some tenser, sadder moments which keep you reading until the end to see if things do work out the way you hope.
Although the ending is predictably happy, I really didn’t mind with this book and there are still moments when you don’t know what will happen. The overall story is such an uplifting one though, it’s like the perfect Christmas tale. It not only puts a smile on your face but also makes you tear up at the end too. The book is perfect for any age to read as there’s nothing at all offensive and I think many ages will enjoy this story. Part of me wishes it would be turned into a film just so I could see the cute puppy and the lovely tale unfold!
At the back of the book there’s a Christmas interview with the author, with Christmas related questions, along with recipes not only for human Christmas treats but dog ones too, and how to make a dog toy which is just a wonderful extra to get before Christmas! There is also an added piece of text talking about the history and comeback of the Christmas jumper which I have to say I found interesting as it’s fascinated me how they are popular again after being laughed at when I was young.
I would recommend to anyone who wants the perfect book to read for Christmas. There is nothing bad I can say about this book, it’s a funny, cosy and a heart warming read and perfect for anyone but especially those that love animals. It’s also one of those sort of ‘Christmas miracle’ type stories which make you smile and with a tale told from the point of view of the puppy, it’s just such an amazing and lovely read! Plus the cover is just too cute!!!
-Thanks to Bookbridgr and the publisher for a free copy.
May 21, 2017
I am the proud owner of two gorgeous (but very loopy) Labrador girls and I regularly get dog magazines. Whilst reading one of the magazines I happened to come across a competition to win a copy of ‘The Christmas Guest’, which was highly recommended by the reviewer. I didn’t win a copy but then I was offered the chance to read and review ‘The Christmas Guest’ so naturally I jumped at it. What a flipping fantastic book it turned out to be.
For a start the cover immediately appealed to me with a picture of a Golden Retriever looking all cute on a snowy doorstep. I just knew that when I picked up this book, I just wouldn’t be able to put it down and so it proved.
A lot of Teddy’s behaviours certainly rang a bell with me (as it will with most Labrador Retriever owners) and I couldn’t help but chuckle away to myself. For example Teddy is at times a little bit destructive. On more than one occasion Teddy destroys something (in one case a pair of designer shoes) and he is so proud of his actions that he finds it confusing when he gets into trouble. He can’t understand what he has done wrong. Not giving too much away, Teddy’s first set of owners really don’t deserve him. Teddy was bought as a gift for one part of the couple but they underestimated how much love, care and attention puppies need. The underlying message that comes through in the first part of the book is that ‘a dog is for life and not just for Christmas’. At the start of the book, Teddy is anxious to be allowed to go out and about to explore the world for himself. Naturally when he gets an opportunity to escape he takes it. Teddy sees it as a big adventure but he soon realizes that the outside world can be very terrifying indeed.
Teddy lands on a snowy doorstep and he really has fallen on his paws. Although, he does get scared as the adults of the family say that he can’t stay with them and that they will take him to the dog pound after Christmas. The adults are parents to a little girl called Emily, who has been ill and they don’t think that having a dog around her will be a good idea. However Teddy has his own ideas on that score. Teddy senses that Emily is vulnerable and he becomes not only her best friend, but also her nursemaid so to speak. This sort of behaviour certainly rang true for me as the very same has happened with me and our youngest Labrador Daisydoo. Without going into too much detail I have back problems as well as suffering with depression and anxiety. When Daisydoo knows that I am having a bad day, she just will not leave my side until I am feeling better. I don’t really want to give too much away about the rest of the story as I really do think that you need to read it for yourself.
In short I really did love reading this book. The beginning of the book was quite sad and at one point I thought I was going to urgently need some tissues as I felt ready to blub on Teddy’s behalf. ( I really am a softy when it comes to dogs). However, I didn’t need the tissues and by the end of the book I had laughed more than I have laughed in a very long time. I would definitely recommend ‘The Christmas Guest’ to others and if you are in need of an upbeat, feel good story then this really is the book for you. I would definitely give this book 5* out of 5*- in fact I would give this book more stars if I could as I enjoyed it that much.
For a start the cover immediately appealed to me with a picture of a Golden Retriever looking all cute on a snowy doorstep. I just knew that when I picked up this book, I just wouldn’t be able to put it down and so it proved.
A lot of Teddy’s behaviours certainly rang a bell with me (as it will with most Labrador Retriever owners) and I couldn’t help but chuckle away to myself. For example Teddy is at times a little bit destructive. On more than one occasion Teddy destroys something (in one case a pair of designer shoes) and he is so proud of his actions that he finds it confusing when he gets into trouble. He can’t understand what he has done wrong. Not giving too much away, Teddy’s first set of owners really don’t deserve him. Teddy was bought as a gift for one part of the couple but they underestimated how much love, care and attention puppies need. The underlying message that comes through in the first part of the book is that ‘a dog is for life and not just for Christmas’. At the start of the book, Teddy is anxious to be allowed to go out and about to explore the world for himself. Naturally when he gets an opportunity to escape he takes it. Teddy sees it as a big adventure but he soon realizes that the outside world can be very terrifying indeed.
Teddy lands on a snowy doorstep and he really has fallen on his paws. Although, he does get scared as the adults of the family say that he can’t stay with them and that they will take him to the dog pound after Christmas. The adults are parents to a little girl called Emily, who has been ill and they don’t think that having a dog around her will be a good idea. However Teddy has his own ideas on that score. Teddy senses that Emily is vulnerable and he becomes not only her best friend, but also her nursemaid so to speak. This sort of behaviour certainly rang true for me as the very same has happened with me and our youngest Labrador Daisydoo. Without going into too much detail I have back problems as well as suffering with depression and anxiety. When Daisydoo knows that I am having a bad day, she just will not leave my side until I am feeling better. I don’t really want to give too much away about the rest of the story as I really do think that you need to read it for yourself.
In short I really did love reading this book. The beginning of the book was quite sad and at one point I thought I was going to urgently need some tissues as I felt ready to blub on Teddy’s behalf. ( I really am a softy when it comes to dogs). However, I didn’t need the tissues and by the end of the book I had laughed more than I have laughed in a very long time. I would definitely recommend ‘The Christmas Guest’ to others and if you are in need of an upbeat, feel good story then this really is the book for you. I would definitely give this book 5* out of 5*- in fact I would give this book more stars if I could as I enjoyed it that much.
November 2, 2016
Don't be fooled by the incredibly adorable cover, yes this is a very cute story about a puppy trying to convince a family that they should be his forever home, but there is also a much more serious storyline in the book too which makes it so full of depth its brilliant.
In fact the cute puppy antics of Teddy, are a real tonic to the worry his new family have over their daughter who has been seriously ill. However she is convinced that Santa sent her Teddy as an early Christmas present, and helps in the campaign for the Woods family to become his owners.
Teddy is just over 2 months old when he runs away from his first family. He got the feeling he was no longer wanted, and at the first opportunity ran and didn't look back, just over a week before Christmas, when on a trip into the countryside. He eventually finds a house and it belongs to the Woods, and all he wants is to have a forever home.
It is so cute and interesting to hear about Christmas from a young puppy's point of view, given he's never experienced it before, and also how he tries to interact with the family cat too. He is trying his hardest to be on his best behaviour to impress the humans, but ultimately has no idea why sometimes its ok to chew or dig, and others it isn't. He isn't really a naughty pup, just trying his best.
What is beautiful is the relationship he quickly builds with Emily, the daughter of the family, who is trying to regain her strength after a horrific illness.
I loved the writing in this story, and the pacing, in addition to just how it drew me in and had me gripped. I found myself very much absorbed in the story and was willing Emily to get better. The odds are if you are slightly softer hearted than me, there are elements of the book will have you in tears, I was almost there myself.
The Christmas Guest is a heart warming Christmas story that will get under your skin and that I loved every second of it.
Thanks to Netgalley and Quercus for my copy of this book. This was my honest opinion.
July 14, 2017
The Christmas Guest is one of several cute pet-related festive stories out this year but I love this trend – magical Christmas stories featuring adorable animals is always a winner in my eyes.
Teddy, or Mr Snuggles as he is unfortunately known as to start with, belongs to Veronica and Richard, but from the moment Veronica was first presented with the puppy and she threw him to the floor when he had an accident on her, he’s known she didn’t particularly love him. When the chance arises a week before Christmas, Teddy runs away and finds himself sleeping out in the snow beside the house which could become his new home, if they want him.
Teddy was just the cutest of narrators. I think I loved him from the moment he called snowflakes moonflakes – and from then on it was lovely watching him learn about life with his new family. For a dog he was full of character and with the story being told from his viewpoint, it only enhanced the uplifting qualities to the story as his character was a lovely, animated one who gets up to various adventures but always means well. He’s a kind-natured dog with a big heart and his new family are one that could use some of his joy.
Claire, Ben and their daughter Emily are, picked up on by Teddy straight away, weary-eyed and struggling with their own problems despite all the love that is evident there. We soon learn that Emily is sick and she is feeling quite low – until Teddy arrives. The story of this new family of four is a really tender one which tugs at your heartstrings and has you eager for some festive cheer and happiness for the characters as Christmas approaches.
There’s more to this story than simply the cute dog on the cover (though of course he is a delight) – through Emily and her family’s story, there are parts of this book that bring out a range of emotions and have you, or me at least, fighting back the tears. I love those books that break your heart a little bit and then mend it back together, and The Christmas Guest is the perfect example of one of those books – a real, heart-warming, Christmas treat of a novel.
I really enjoyed the author’s style of writing too – how the chapters were set out in the form of a countdown to Christmas, and how with each chapter it becomes more wintery and full of a feel-good festive nature. Despite tough times for the family meaning Christmas is a more stressful time than usual, the connection between Emily and Teddy is truly lovely to read and had me smiling on many occasion. Overall The Christmas Guest is a beautiful novel of the true meaning of Christmas with a star character in the form of a loveable dog – what’s not to love?
Teddy, or Mr Snuggles as he is unfortunately known as to start with, belongs to Veronica and Richard, but from the moment Veronica was first presented with the puppy and she threw him to the floor when he had an accident on her, he’s known she didn’t particularly love him. When the chance arises a week before Christmas, Teddy runs away and finds himself sleeping out in the snow beside the house which could become his new home, if they want him.
Teddy was just the cutest of narrators. I think I loved him from the moment he called snowflakes moonflakes – and from then on it was lovely watching him learn about life with his new family. For a dog he was full of character and with the story being told from his viewpoint, it only enhanced the uplifting qualities to the story as his character was a lovely, animated one who gets up to various adventures but always means well. He’s a kind-natured dog with a big heart and his new family are one that could use some of his joy.
Claire, Ben and their daughter Emily are, picked up on by Teddy straight away, weary-eyed and struggling with their own problems despite all the love that is evident there. We soon learn that Emily is sick and she is feeling quite low – until Teddy arrives. The story of this new family of four is a really tender one which tugs at your heartstrings and has you eager for some festive cheer and happiness for the characters as Christmas approaches.
There’s more to this story than simply the cute dog on the cover (though of course he is a delight) – through Emily and her family’s story, there are parts of this book that bring out a range of emotions and have you, or me at least, fighting back the tears. I love those books that break your heart a little bit and then mend it back together, and The Christmas Guest is the perfect example of one of those books – a real, heart-warming, Christmas treat of a novel.
I really enjoyed the author’s style of writing too – how the chapters were set out in the form of a countdown to Christmas, and how with each chapter it becomes more wintery and full of a feel-good festive nature. Despite tough times for the family meaning Christmas is a more stressful time than usual, the connection between Emily and Teddy is truly lovely to read and had me smiling on many occasion. Overall The Christmas Guest is a beautiful novel of the true meaning of Christmas with a star character in the form of a loveable dog – what’s not to love?
December 9, 2017
Typical easy read and fun Christmas story. In the tone of "A Dogs Purpose" it's all told from the point of view of Teddy who runs away from a bad home (as a puppy) and follows the scent of cooked chicken to a family in need of his love. From loosing jobs and a sick daughter hes especially needed. He gets in to trouble....as is a puppy but good things always happen in a Christmas story. This is like it was written for a made for tv Christmas movie. Even the grumpy neighbor with a sad story is there and really he has a heart of gold...or does he?!?!
Some of it was funny as in the puppy doesn't know what a candy cane is but uses big words to describe it lol. There is even recipes and crafts at the end of the book for people to use.
It was a easy and fun read for this time of year. Would I read it again? Nope lol but I am sure glad I did read it once. It's so tame that even teens and maybe young kids can read it too. It's got a great message and full of love.
Some of it was funny as in the puppy doesn't know what a candy cane is but uses big words to describe it lol. There is even recipes and crafts at the end of the book for people to use.
It was a easy and fun read for this time of year. Would I read it again? Nope lol but I am sure glad I did read it once. It's so tame that even teens and maybe young kids can read it too. It's got a great message and full of love.
December 19, 2019
Thank you to Netgally and the publisher for sending me this book for review.
So I've been reading a lot of festive books this season and none of them have really made me feel Christmasey until this little hidden gem.
In this book we focus on a puppy called Teddy, he lives in the city with a couple who don't really want him or bother to get to know him so when he sees his chance for freedom he takes it. Lost, cold and alone Teddy comes across a house and sleeps on the doorstep in the hope someone will take him in, on his discovery they do just that and Teddy soon has a huge impact on the Woods family in more ways than one.
Told from Teddy's prospective this festive gem will fill you full of joy. I adored this book, I am partial to any story about animals and this book did not disappoint at all, it was rammed with Christmas cheer and made me so happy.
More people need to read this book and it's one I will be recommending everyone read during the holidays.
So I've been reading a lot of festive books this season and none of them have really made me feel Christmasey until this little hidden gem.
In this book we focus on a puppy called Teddy, he lives in the city with a couple who don't really want him or bother to get to know him so when he sees his chance for freedom he takes it. Lost, cold and alone Teddy comes across a house and sleeps on the doorstep in the hope someone will take him in, on his discovery they do just that and Teddy soon has a huge impact on the Woods family in more ways than one.
Told from Teddy's prospective this festive gem will fill you full of joy. I adored this book, I am partial to any story about animals and this book did not disappoint at all, it was rammed with Christmas cheer and made me so happy.
More people need to read this book and it's one I will be recommending everyone read during the holidays.
February 11, 2020
Sammy, der kleine Hundewelpe ist in seinen zu Hause nicht glücklich und somit nutzte er die Chance, um abzuhauen. Durch seine Neugier entfernt er sich immer mehr von seinen Heim und die Kälte sowie der Hunger treiben ihn voran. So landet er schließlich vor der Haustür der Familie Woods. Die wissen erst gar nicht was sie mit dem Hundewelpen anfangen sollen, sie haben ja schon Probleme genug. Ihre Tochter Emily ist schwerkrank und die Mutter dadurch arbeitslos geworden. Trotz alledem wollen sie den kleinen Wirbelwind eine Chance geben. Diese reizt Sammy aber ziemlich mit seiner ungestümen Art aus. Hat das Weihnachtsfest da überhaupt eine Chance?
Die Winterüberraschung ist aus der Sicht des kleinen Hundewelpen Sammy geschrieben. Sehr liebevoll, winterlich und naiv. Es hat alles was ein Weihnachtsbuch braucht. Mir hat es gut gefallen. Das Cover und der Einband ist sehr schön gestaltet.
Die Winterüberraschung ist aus der Sicht des kleinen Hundewelpen Sammy geschrieben. Sehr liebevoll, winterlich und naiv. Es hat alles was ein Weihnachtsbuch braucht. Mir hat es gut gefallen. Das Cover und der Einband ist sehr schön gestaltet.
December 2, 2018
Teddy is unhappy with his owners as they are angry about his destructive puppy ways so he runs away but didn't realise what a big, bad world it is for a dog with no home.
When he lands on the doorstep of the Woods family they soon fall in love with him but with a sick daughter they have little time for a new puppy.
Can Teddy convince them to give him a forever home to make his Christmas wishes come true?
Will he be the latest addition to the Woods family or will his naughtiness see him go to the council rehoming centre...?
A charming festive tale that will appeal to any dog lover out there.
When he lands on the doorstep of the Woods family they soon fall in love with him but with a sick daughter they have little time for a new puppy.
Can Teddy convince them to give him a forever home to make his Christmas wishes come true?
Will he be the latest addition to the Woods family or will his naughtiness see him go to the council rehoming centre...?
A charming festive tale that will appeal to any dog lover out there.
December 19, 2025
Don’t get me wrong, I really enjoyed this book, and the characters are very lovable and real. However I gave it only 3 stars (I would’ve given it an extra half if I could), because it’s just a bit too twee and simplistic in writing style for my taste. Yes the simplicity fits the fact that the narrator is a puppy, but it’s just not my taste. However I did enjoy it and it would definitely get 3.5 stars if half stars were allowed.
January 17, 2021
I really enjoyed this book & loved the way it was written. I found all the characters were great & the storyline was also great too. I loved how this book was written from the dogs perspective. I really liked the character Teddy the puppy in the story. I read this story to my son at bedtime he really liked the story & hearing about all the mischief Teddy got into.
December 5, 2017
Truly an amazing story of a list dog and a desperate family in need of a miracle. A must read
Brilliant book. A really good book everyone should read. A beautiful puppy which is lost and a desperate family. Brillant
Brilliant book. A really good book everyone should read. A beautiful puppy which is lost and a desperate family. Brillant
December 10, 2020
Eine sehr süße Geschichte! Mittig der Geschichte bin ich nicht wirklich voran gekommen da es sich alles gezogen hat aber dann wurde es wieder schön spannend. Der Schreibstil ist gut & man kann die Geschichte schön flüssig lesen. Kann ich nur weiter empfehlen!
January 12, 2021
A gripping and heart warming story
Although it is a very light hearted read at the beginning, it pulls hard at your heart strings had way through. Read jerking and gripping this is a must read.
Although it is a very light hearted read at the beginning, it pulls hard at your heart strings had way through. Read jerking and gripping this is a must read.
December 17, 2017
Sweet story, easy read with a feel-good factor
January 12, 2020
Auch a cute book!!! A little bit of light reading for the winter season :) heartwarming story for young and old
November 30, 2020
wunderschönes Buch zum Lesen für die Weihnachtszeit
September 19, 2021
It was a calm and enjoyable story.
February 28, 2023
A well written story. Very interesting
December 29, 2023
Such a cute Christmas read. A very easy read, probably aimed at a teenage auficence but I still enjoyed it. The first book I've read that is narrated by a dog!
December 30, 2023
Den her traff meg skikkelig godt. Skulle tro jeg hadde anlegg for å like husmorporno og feelgoodbøker når jeg blir litt eldre. Synes hundestemmen var teit først, men likte det godt etterhvert!
July 19, 2024
13 - year old
December 10, 2025
War eine richtig schöne Weihnachtsgeschichte mit einer Prise Humor ❤️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews