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A Mom by Magic
Jessica's wish for a mother for the holiday season results in some wacky, yet endearing, adventures with a mannequin mom brought alive by the powers of magic.
133 pages, Library Binding
First published September 1, 1990
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
December 20, 2018
I have loved the movie, A Mom For Christmas, since I was young and had it recorded from the TV onto a VHS tape (ask your parents, kids!)
I remember finally tracking down a DVD copy of the film and realising, while watching the credits, that it was based on a book.
This is a kids book, in the same vein as I would imagine Freaky Friday to be and is only 133 pages long, with large-ish writing and illustrations. My edition is an ex-library copy and came from Springfield Plains Media Centre, with a cute little “Happy Thanksgiving” bookmark. (I love things like that.)
There are some changes from book to film. Jessica (played by Juliet Sorci/Sorcey in the film, who could have been another Anna Chlumsky) is not quite as whiny in the book, and a lot of the background characters are more fleshed out, with divorcees trying to sink their talons into Jessica’s ever-so-eligible father. Amalie Evans (played flawlessly by Olivia Newton John) becomes Amy Miller and there are lots of funny scenes added to the film, losing out on home baking scenes and snowmen to the editing room floor.
The finale is particularly lack lustre and this is where the film shines for me. They brought new ideas to the table, which really worked. And the late Doris Roberts breathes life into the wishy washy character of Philomena.
This is a book that can be read as a stand alone and also if you have loved the film. There are changes but I think they are minor if you love the book and/or the film.
I remember finally tracking down a DVD copy of the film and realising, while watching the credits, that it was based on a book.
This is a kids book, in the same vein as I would imagine Freaky Friday to be and is only 133 pages long, with large-ish writing and illustrations. My edition is an ex-library copy and came from Springfield Plains Media Centre, with a cute little “Happy Thanksgiving” bookmark. (I love things like that.)
There are some changes from book to film. Jessica (played by Juliet Sorci/Sorcey in the film, who could have been another Anna Chlumsky) is not quite as whiny in the book, and a lot of the background characters are more fleshed out, with divorcees trying to sink their talons into Jessica’s ever-so-eligible father. Amalie Evans (played flawlessly by Olivia Newton John) becomes Amy Miller and there are lots of funny scenes added to the film, losing out on home baking scenes and snowmen to the editing room floor.
The finale is particularly lack lustre and this is where the film shines for me. They brought new ideas to the table, which really worked. And the late Doris Roberts breathes life into the wishy washy character of Philomena.
This is a book that can be read as a stand alone and also if you have loved the film. There are changes but I think they are minor if you love the book and/or the film.
April 15, 2018
I feel like I'm missing something. Why is this book so unknown? I distinctly remember reading it when I was much younger, and I absolutely loved it. Plus there are a couple movies that seem to be based on its premise. I can't believe no one has gone back to read the original, because from what I remember it's quite entertaining. It certainly made a lasting impression on me, at least.
July 23, 2018
Jessica Slocum has everything except a mom, and less importantly a dog. Author Barbara Dillon weaves a world where family is what matters the most, even when many books written for this age group (3rd-6th grade) show family as undesirable and uncool.
Jessica is granted a wish at Milliman's Department Store at the promotional "wishing well" where small gifts are given to shoppers. Her wish for a mom comes true, but in a highly imaginative way. This story is creative and full of wonder.
And for parents who are concerned about content, this book contains nothing to worry about. I recommend "Mom by Magic," for upper elementary age girls and adults who want to be charmed.
Jessica is granted a wish at Milliman's Department Store at the promotional "wishing well" where small gifts are given to shoppers. Her wish for a mom comes true, but in a highly imaginative way. This story is creative and full of wonder.
And for parents who are concerned about content, this book contains nothing to worry about. I recommend "Mom by Magic," for upper elementary age girls and adults who want to be charmed.
December 29, 2023
3.5 stars
January 1, 2025
Loved all the nostalgia- A Mom for Christmas, the movie this book is based on was a childhood favorite!
January 1, 2009
Good book for young readers
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews