The Advent Box

by Shannon Taylor

Christmas should be magical when your family runs a shop called Deck the Halls. But for twelve-year-old Krista Sorenson, the season is shaping up to be more stressful than merry. Her mom is going on bed rest during their busiest time of year, her stage fright has her stuck in the wings, and she can’t seem to form a sentence around her crush, Nate Alvarez.

When Krista discovers a mysterious Advent Box that seems to grant wishes, she thinks all her problems are solved. But as her wishes lead to surprising—and sometimes puzzling—results, Krista begins to wonder if the box might be trying to teach her something more. Then her grandparents announce they’re selling the store, and Krista must uncover the true purpose of the Advent Box—before it’s too late.

Warm, funny, and brimming with holiday cheer, this cozy family story is perfect for readers who believe in the magic of Christmas traditions—and a little wishful thinking.

154 pages, Paperback

Published December 11, 2019

About the author

Shannon Taylor is a former magazine and literature textbook editor. Originally from Minnesota, she's living in an old brick house called "Lolligogin" just north of Baltimore, Maryland. She and her husband have four kids: one's a filmmaker, another works for an organization that supports local artists, and the youngest two are in college. She loves hanging out with her family and their golden retriever (Teddy), knitting, reading, baking, and playing the piano and guitar. She learned how to row when she lived on an island in the Pacific Northwest and is writing a novel based on that amazing experience. She's also working on a cozy mystery series set in a small town on the Chesapeake Bay.

Reviews

[Karey Sizemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful Christmas read, just perfect for the holiday season! Bringing the magic of Christmas back one day at a time!

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Krista lives in a small community in Minnesota where she is surrounded by her family. Her grandparents own a Christmas store, and Krista helps them out often after school. One day, she comes across a beautiful Advent Box that she thinks might be broken, but interestingly enough, the elf inside is writing a letter to her. She’s intrigued so home it goes. Soon she finds out the magic of the Advent Box and what it can do to help her and those she loves.

This is a charming little story! The book was running like a movie in my head while I was reading it so I’m sure it would make a cute Christmas movie. Read this one. It won’t disappoint.

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A touching, creative look at the Christmas season, filled with characters you'll love, a little magic, wonder and suspense. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Shannon Taylor's book. Treat yourself to a new and imaginative holiday read.

[Diane J]

I loved this book. Relatable and well developed characters. Great story and wonderfully descriptive setting. The main character is a seventh grader, but the author is such a good writer that the story will appeal to the most discerning reader, of any age. A touch of magic and mystery. Perfect book to pull out every December and make reading it together a family tradition. It will get you in the mood for the holidays!

[Cheryl Long O'Donnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book. Read it every Christmas. Hope to start reading it to the grandkids as a tradition.

[Laurin Teegarden · Rating 4 out of 5]

The perfect light read to enjoy with family to get in the holiday spirit!

[Pauline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely read that will spark joy in your holidays!

[Diane Whittaker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book consisted of a surprise found in the attic that brought magic and happiness into an already caring family and town. A book you won't want to put down.