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Sincerely, Jem
Alternate cover edition of ASIN B0841ZGZ2W
Dear Reader,
My name is Jessie. I'm an expert at introversion and cheesecake eating. (#skillz) I'm trying to become a writer, but gathering inspiration = social interaction, so... no.
The world's best mail carrier suggested I get a pen pal, so this is the story of that pen pal experiment and the beautiful way it opened my eyes.
Merry Christmas and much cheesecake to you!
Sincerely,
Jem
This lighthearted novella is inspired by Daddy-Long-Legs by Jean Webster and originally appeared in the anthology A Very Bookish Christmas.
Dear Reader,
My name is Jessie. I'm an expert at introversion and cheesecake eating. (#skillz) I'm trying to become a writer, but gathering inspiration = social interaction, so... no.
The world's best mail carrier suggested I get a pen pal, so this is the story of that pen pal experiment and the beautiful way it opened my eyes.
Merry Christmas and much cheesecake to you!
Sincerely,
Jem
This lighthearted novella is inspired by Daddy-Long-Legs by Jean Webster and originally appeared in the anthology A Very Bookish Christmas.
81 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2020
2 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
About the author
Kate Willis
23 books570 followersKate (Willis) Hoppman is a follower of Jesus and lover of words. She enjoys quiet afternoons reading or watching movies with her nerdy husband, baking tall cakes, and cuddling her dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 10, 2021
This was such a delightful story! I loved Jessie from the start even if I’m not the same quiet introvert she is. Her personality really shone and it was fun watching her grow in just the short span of the story. The rest of her family members were delightful as well, and I wanted to go to a Christmas party at their house.
There were so much Christmasy goings on from parties, to gingerbread house making, to wrapping presents, to setting up a Christmas tree, and more that I was swept into a whirl of happiness over it all.
I really liked the message of this story. It’s easy to look and judge a person from the outside, but it takes effort to look beyond and see the real person.
I know I’ll be reading this story again.
There were so much Christmasy goings on from parties, to gingerbread house making, to wrapping presents, to setting up a Christmas tree, and more that I was swept into a whirl of happiness over it all.
I really liked the message of this story. It’s easy to look and judge a person from the outside, but it takes effort to look beyond and see the real person.
I know I’ll be reading this story again.
January 22, 2020
OH MY LANTA.
This is so cute and relatable!!
I cannot even ......
PROS ~
- The details and author voice were so unique!!
- THE CHARACTERS AND FAMILY QUIRKS. OMW. 💖💖
- The traditions and neat perspectives.....I love how the family interacts with one another.
- The development and well done character arcs. :)
- The way the book was set up....?! lol It was neat how the letters played such a big part of the story.
- The plot was soooooo unique.
- The setting and side characters were still important to the story ... they were perfectly flushed out.
- GAHHHH JUST EVERYTHING.
- The MC's quirks, and introverted personality ... #relatable
- Side character relationships.
CONS ~
- It was kinda short....?
- I was hoping maybe for a more romantic....unique ending. ... . ?
- There was a specific moment where I was like...."okay, that doesn't really make sense"...but other than that it was SO WELL WRITTEN.
CONTENT ~
- Nothing. Super duper clean. Anyone would read and enjoy, especially if you've ever had a pen-pal.
**FTC DISCLOSURE** I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. My review is in no way biased toward the author. This is my opinion, so if something was offensive don't take it personally. Thanks!! :)
This is so cute and relatable!!
I cannot even ......
PROS ~
- The details and author voice were so unique!!
- THE CHARACTERS AND FAMILY QUIRKS. OMW. 💖💖
- The traditions and neat perspectives.....I love how the family interacts with one another.
- The development and well done character arcs. :)
- The way the book was set up....?! lol It was neat how the letters played such a big part of the story.
- The plot was soooooo unique.
- The setting and side characters were still important to the story ... they were perfectly flushed out.
- GAHHHH JUST EVERYTHING.
- The MC's quirks, and introverted personality ... #relatable
- Side character relationships.
CONS ~
- It was kinda short....?
- I was hoping maybe for a more romantic....unique ending. ... . ?
- There was a specific moment where I was like...."okay, that doesn't really make sense"...but other than that it was SO WELL WRITTEN.
CONTENT ~
- Nothing. Super duper clean. Anyone would read and enjoy, especially if you've ever had a pen-pal.
**FTC DISCLOSURE** I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. My review is in no way biased toward the author. This is my opinion, so if something was offensive don't take it personally. Thanks!! :)
February 6, 2020
Age Appropriate For: All Ages
Best for Ages: 12 and up
This was such a sweet story. From the first draft I read to the final polished version, this story just delighted me.
Kate Willis is a strong writer who has a unique author voice. Her books aren’t like everything else out there. Her tone in this book was fun, vivacious, and real. Jessie is a relatable, and lovable character. She loves her family, resects her parents (I just loved that she asked them for advice), and sparkles on the page.
The story itself is sweet, feel-good, and light without being stupid. Some stories try to hard to be light and sweet, this one is just that way in a very genuine way. The plot (inspired by Daddy-Long-Legs was so much fun. It felt real and had me laughing and just wanting to hug the characters. Also…I WANT A SEQUEL!! *ahem* Pretty please?
This book was a wonderful Christmas story and was light and fun without cheesy Hallmark moments. A Christmas ornament does not change people's outlook, no quick and stupid romance (no romance at all, actually), and no person who learns the true meaning of Christmas. This was just…well…perfect.
I highly recommend this story for those who like novella’s, sweet Christmas books, and anyone who is looking for a unique and fresh author voice in their fiction.
I was one of the authors in the A Very Bookish Christmas Collection, however, this review is entirely my own opinion and I was not required to write a review.
Best for Ages: 12 and up
This was such a sweet story. From the first draft I read to the final polished version, this story just delighted me.
Kate Willis is a strong writer who has a unique author voice. Her books aren’t like everything else out there. Her tone in this book was fun, vivacious, and real. Jessie is a relatable, and lovable character. She loves her family, resects her parents (I just loved that she asked them for advice), and sparkles on the page.
The story itself is sweet, feel-good, and light without being stupid. Some stories try to hard to be light and sweet, this one is just that way in a very genuine way. The plot (inspired by Daddy-Long-Legs was so much fun. It felt real and had me laughing and just wanting to hug the characters. Also…I WANT A SEQUEL!! *ahem* Pretty please?
This book was a wonderful Christmas story and was light and fun without cheesy Hallmark moments. A Christmas ornament does not change people's outlook, no quick and stupid romance (no romance at all, actually), and no person who learns the true meaning of Christmas. This was just…well…perfect.
I highly recommend this story for those who like novella’s, sweet Christmas books, and anyone who is looking for a unique and fresh author voice in their fiction.
I was one of the authors in the A Very Bookish Christmas Collection, however, this review is entirely my own opinion and I was not required to write a review.
October 7, 2019
Wow, that was such a fun and easy read! Thanks to Kate for letting me beta read this one, it was truly amazing. Full review to come...
May 11, 2021
Delightful in every way. I enjoyed every bit immensely, and not just because I love cheesecake--mini or big!
It's not just for Christmastime, but it is a perfect read if you're in the mood for a little noel! Fun characters, an even "funner" family, this book will give you all the warm-hearted feels. :)
It's not just for Christmastime, but it is a perfect read if you're in the mood for a little noel! Fun characters, an even "funner" family, this book will give you all the warm-hearted feels. :)
September 24, 2019
What a sweet story!! Full review to come.
July 5, 2022
Oh my! *heart eyes* This was adorable!!! I absolutely how things worked out! I relate to Jessie so much and I must say a certain someone is pretty niice! ;)
I have no more to say other than you should read it and be prepared to love it immensely!
I have no more to say other than you should read it and be prepared to love it immensely!
September 23, 2019
Awwww! I can't wait for Christmas now; this is such a sweet story, and I had so much fun beta reading it.
December 18, 2023
Guys, this little story is amazing. Jessie was such a perfectly relatable character, and I wanted to sit down and talk with her. From the main character who hides behind Christmas trees, to pen-pals, NASA shirts, Cheesecakes, present wrapping, Christmas parties, and lots of siblings interaction, this book is just amazing. But the best thing about this book was the theme. It was just what I needed to be reminded of this time of year, and it was done in the best, gentle way that makes it sink deep into your heart. It was the perfect way to end the collection. <3
2020> Still one of my favorite Christmas books. <3
2020> Still one of my favorite Christmas books. <3
December 9, 2021
Loved the main character, so relatable, and I definitely had a staring contest with my Christmas tree, think my tree won too!
March 13, 2022
Incredibly unique
So very sweet
Extremely short
Worth a read!
I love Jessie's family, and the dynamic between "Jem" and "Longfellow".
Very cute.
So very sweet
Extremely short
Worth a read!
I love Jessie's family, and the dynamic between "Jem" and "Longfellow".
Very cute.
October 9, 2023
Whatever else it may be, Sincerely, Jem is purely adorable and chock-full of sweet encouragement and meaningful Christmas cheer.
December 27, 2022
This was such a sweet, fun, Christmas-y story! The main character is so funny and quirky, and I related to her quite a bit, even though I'm not as introverted as she is. Loved this book so much, and am definitely reading it again next Christmas!!
Quote I loved:
“So many people with so many different stories filled the world God had made. It wasn’t right for her to write off any of them, because she could read only a few lines.”
Quote that made me laugh:
"P.S. My favorite Christmas passage is the entire book of Isaiah. The campus bookstore didn't have any cards long enough to write it in..."
Quote I loved:
“So many people with so many different stories filled the world God had made. It wasn’t right for her to write off any of them, because she could read only a few lines.”
Quote that made me laugh:
"P.S. My favorite Christmas passage is the entire book of Isaiah. The campus bookstore didn't have any cards long enough to write it in..."
January 20, 2020
Sincerely, Jem is the late Christmas present I didn't know I was still craving! I absolutely loved reading Jem and her penpal's letters. At the same time, I liked that everything wasn't in letter format. The back and forth writing helped to keep things moving, and allows the reader to really get to know Jem and her family well. The characters are fun and kind, the plot is sweet, and the setting is enjoyable (if a bit generic). Having the story set around Christmas helped, too. Who doesn't still wish for something a little bit miraculous at Christmastime? And isn't finding a friend in a random, anonymous pen pal something of a miracle?
This is a wonderful, squeaky clean, young adult winter story, but it could just as easily be read by someone 8 years old or 100. It's a fairly short read, which is perfect for the enjoying amid the chaos that tends to fill the Christmas season! I have no complaints about Sincerely, Jem. I had fun reading this story, and I think you will, too!
This review was first published on my blog, Reviews From the Stacks.
This is a wonderful, squeaky clean, young adult winter story, but it could just as easily be read by someone 8 years old or 100. It's a fairly short read, which is perfect for the enjoying amid the chaos that tends to fill the Christmas season! I have no complaints about Sincerely, Jem. I had fun reading this story, and I think you will, too!
This review was first published on my blog, Reviews From the Stacks.
January 26, 2020
I had planned on reviewing this earlier, but I left for a road trip, then became sick. But now I am (kinda) back, and here's to the review!!!
*squeals* I LOVED THIS. It's hard to describe why I liked it so much, but it had a kind, homey feel, yet the penpal part made me feel like I was going on an adventure. The characters were so good (Jem was a great MC) and Longfellow was just so great. I loved him dearly.
(Also I read on Kate's website that this is not a romance? >:( BUT I SHIPPED JEM AND LONGFELLOW SO HARD NO FAIR)
The format of the pen pal letters was a really unique way to write the story and made it captivating. The approach was amazing.
Beautiful story that if recommend to anyone!!!!
*squeals* I LOVED THIS. It's hard to describe why I liked it so much, but it had a kind, homey feel, yet the penpal part made me feel like I was going on an adventure. The characters were so good (Jem was a great MC) and Longfellow was just so great. I loved him dearly.
(Also I read on Kate's website that this is not a romance? >:( BUT I SHIPPED JEM AND LONGFELLOW SO HARD NO FAIR)
The format of the pen pal letters was a really unique way to write the story and made it captivating. The approach was amazing.
Beautiful story that if recommend to anyone!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2020
Everything about this story is endearing. Jessie is a relatable introvert bookworm who feels awkward at Christmas parties. When a friend suggests she tries a pen pal, she jumps at the chance to be like her favorite book character, Jerusha Abbott from Daddy-Long-Legs, and hopefully make a new friend behind the safety of handwritten letters. I really enjoyed the mystery of who Jessie's correspondent is, as well as the important lesson of how to make friends by focusing on other people.
(I copyedited this novella but was under no obligation to write a positive review. This is my genuine opinion!)
(I copyedited this novella but was under no obligation to write a positive review. This is my genuine opinion!)
January 26, 2020
FTC DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
This book is just the cutest thing ever. First--reading it after Christmas gave me all the seasonal feels again. Second--the exchange of letters seriously was delightful.
I loved the story...there were so many gems and reminder throughout and the family life and writingly things made me so happy. "Jem" was awkwardly relatable and her pen-pal so likable ☺️
Go read it 💓
This book is just the cutest thing ever. First--reading it after Christmas gave me all the seasonal feels again. Second--the exchange of letters seriously was delightful.
I loved the story...there were so many gems and reminder throughout and the family life and writingly things made me so happy. "Jem" was awkwardly relatable and her pen-pal so likable ☺️
Go read it 💓
December 30, 2022
This adorable, Christmasy retelling of Daddy-Long-Legs is the perfect snack for a wintery afternoon. Pair it with some sugar cookies and hot cocoa and prepare to be delighted!
January 21, 2020
This was an *adorable* book!! 😍 I loved every aspect of it, and I have never read about a more relatable character than Jessie! ❤️
January 31, 2021
Sincerely, Jem by Kate Willis was a sweet and heartfelt snapshot into the life of one socially-awkward, imaginative, goofy character. Willis’ writing style captured me from the first page, and the story and characters came alive through the gentle painting of the scenery. I found each character to be lovable and well-rounded, full of personality even in their small roles.
I enjoyed following “Jem” through her pen-pal journey (and also loved Longfellow!) and thought the story was told concisely and thoughtfully. I laughed out loud in several places! I loved reading Jem’s letters and all the wonderful text-talk. Jessie is hilarious and that is all. ;) As a whole, I found this story well executed.
However, while this story was a happy, lighthearted tale, it was little more than that. The characters face little difficulty, struggle, or conflict; there is little to overcome. I understand that this is supposed to be a lighthearted story, but I think it would have benefited from a little more depth. All considered, it was a sweet read that made me smile and one I’m glad I had the opportunity to read!
Favorite quote: “So many people with so many different stories filled the world God had made. It wasn’t right for her to write off any of them, because she could read only a few lines.”
I enjoyed following “Jem” through her pen-pal journey (and also loved Longfellow!) and thought the story was told concisely and thoughtfully. I laughed out loud in several places! I loved reading Jem’s letters and all the wonderful text-talk. Jessie is hilarious and that is all. ;) As a whole, I found this story well executed.
However, while this story was a happy, lighthearted tale, it was little more than that. The characters face little difficulty, struggle, or conflict; there is little to overcome. I understand that this is supposed to be a lighthearted story, but I think it would have benefited from a little more depth. All considered, it was a sweet read that made me smile and one I’m glad I had the opportunity to read!
Favorite quote: “So many people with so many different stories filled the world God had made. It wasn’t right for her to write off any of them, because she could read only a few lines.”
February 14, 2020
What a simple, but sweet story! I loved the theme, which was surprising deep. Jem is able to work on herself and It was also lovely to read about how the family interacted with each other – in a caring and loving way.
One thing I would criticize, is how the author lets Jem assume that her pen-pal is a Christian and then, surprise, surprise, he is. That’s a little… well… unlikely?
All in all, though, a good read.
4 stars from 5
Quotes:
The shimmering Christmas tree began a staring contest with her, and if she hadn’t been so bored, it would have beaten her sooner.
[My] biggest fear is betraying someone I care about.
Amy made it out of Monopoly jail only to be sent back in again, and Owen bankrupted Jessie in another two turns. Jessie gave him a congratulating handshake and excused herself.
She paused to look back at the silent street lined by glowing houses. So many people with so many different stories filled the world God had made. It wasn’t right for her to write off any of them, just because she could read only a few lines.
One thing I would criticize, is how the author lets Jem assume that her pen-pal is a Christian and then, surprise, surprise, he is. That’s a little… well… unlikely?
All in all, though, a good read.
4 stars from 5
Quotes:
The shimmering Christmas tree began a staring contest with her, and if she hadn’t been so bored, it would have beaten her sooner.
[My] biggest fear is betraying someone I care about.
Amy made it out of Monopoly jail only to be sent back in again, and Owen bankrupted Jessie in another two turns. Jessie gave him a congratulating handshake and excused herself.
She paused to look back at the silent street lined by glowing houses. So many people with so many different stories filled the world God had made. It wasn’t right for her to write off any of them, just because she could read only a few lines.
August 10, 2020
A bundle of pure Christmas joy about an introverted girl and her mysterious pen pal, and so stinking cute. Four stars from me!
October 13, 2020
So cute!
This is such a dear story! I really loves the characters and that "Jem" actually gets to...wait that would be a spoiler. Nevermind! Just read it;)
This is such a dear story! I really loves the characters and that "Jem" actually gets to...wait that would be a spoiler. Nevermind! Just read it;)
July 13, 2023
A cute, whimsical Christmas story. (Tall Guy is my favorite character.)
This will make for great reading when it gets close to the holidays!
This will make for great reading when it gets close to the holidays!
December 19, 2023
So darling.
And I learned a new word - begarlanded.
And I learned a new word - begarlanded.
December 27, 2020
4.5 stars. A very sweet, enjoyable Christmasy story, with a relatably awkward main character. And now I'm going to have to go read Daddy-Long-Legs that it's based on!
July 4, 2024
Five stars ✨
*laughs over a joke in this book and wishes that it lasted longer*
Oh my gosh this book was so cute!!! Just pure humor, and I just loved loved loved loved loooved it!!!
Like every other line was making me crack up, and I was asked a few times by my little brother WHY I was laughing. Apparently now I'm crazy for laughing at a book??!!
I guess it's Christmas in July, since I'm reading this book. It totally made me want to throw on a big sweater, and curl up on the couch with a cup of hot cocoa. The Christmas parts were so fun, and I LOVED her big, crazy, homeschool family.
I can totally relate to like a lot of the things in this book too haha.
Things that me and Jessica have in common
-Both writers
-big families
-introverted and both love reading
-try to include humor and quirky comments in everything
See? And just one more thing, I love cheesecake too...
The letters were so much fun and "Longfellow" made me laugh many, many times. I just loved this book SOOO much!!!
*grins and laughs over some funny parts that I'm remembering*
My only complaint is how short this book is. At 120ish pages it only lasted me one morning. Please, Kate Ellis, write another book with these characters. Asap.
Age recommendation: 10+
This book was very clean, and there wasn't much content to note. But there was some mild romance stuff going on with her older sister and Ben, and a few tv references.
CW/TW: some teasing and giggling over Embers boyfriend/fiancee from Jessica, a mention of lovebirds, A mention of girlfriends, (teasing), A mention of lovebirds, a mention of how cute Ember and Ben are together, Ember and Ben hold hands
A mention of "fattening someone up", A mention of hunger games, a quote from hunger games "may the odds be with you," a mention of daddy long legs and a quote from it, some joking about "murderous heels," Jessica twists her ankle when she's wearing heels
*laughs over a joke in this book and wishes that it lasted longer*
Oh my gosh this book was so cute!!! Just pure humor, and I just loved loved loved loved loooved it!!!
Like every other line was making me crack up, and I was asked a few times by my little brother WHY I was laughing. Apparently now I'm crazy for laughing at a book??!!
I guess it's Christmas in July, since I'm reading this book. It totally made me want to throw on a big sweater, and curl up on the couch with a cup of hot cocoa. The Christmas parts were so fun, and I LOVED her big, crazy, homeschool family.
I can totally relate to like a lot of the things in this book too haha.
Things that me and Jessica have in common
-Both writers
-big families
-introverted and both love reading
-try to include humor and quirky comments in everything
See? And just one more thing, I love cheesecake too...
The letters were so much fun and "Longfellow" made me laugh many, many times. I just loved this book SOOO much!!!
*grins and laughs over some funny parts that I'm remembering*
My only complaint is how short this book is. At 120ish pages it only lasted me one morning. Please, Kate Ellis, write another book with these characters. Asap.
Age recommendation: 10+
This book was very clean, and there wasn't much content to note. But there was some mild romance stuff going on with her older sister and Ben, and a few tv references.
CW/TW: some teasing and giggling over Embers boyfriend/fiancee from Jessica, a mention of lovebirds, A mention of girlfriends, (teasing), A mention of lovebirds, a mention of how cute Ember and Ben are together, Ember and Ben hold hands
A mention of "fattening someone up", A mention of hunger games, a quote from hunger games "may the odds be with you," a mention of daddy long legs and a quote from it, some joking about "murderous heels," Jessica twists her ankle when she's wearing heels
April 11, 2021
This book was sent to me for free from the wonderful author Kate Willis in exchange for an honest review!!! Eeeeeeeeekkkk! (Totally not fangirling here ;) )
This was a super sweet, slow paced Christmas novel that I'l be really happy to read during the holiday season to get me into the Christmas spirit :) Even though it was a tad slow-paced for my taste, I still thoroughly enjoyed it and will definitely read it again!
Please read the full review on my blog:
https://justabookishblog.wixsite.com/...
This was a super sweet, slow paced Christmas novel that I'l be really happy to read during the holiday season to get me into the Christmas spirit :) Even though it was a tad slow-paced for my taste, I still thoroughly enjoyed it and will definitely read it again!
Please read the full review on my blog:
https://justabookishblog.wixsite.com/...
December 31, 2020
This story was so fun! It was a quick read, but I truly enjoyed it. And I loved reading a story with a MC that's almost as introverted as I am! The letters were fun (almost makes me wish I had a pen-pal), and I enjoyed the pennames. I kind of wish I could have read the Agent Tangent story, though...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews