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The Christmassy Cactus
Bestselling author Beth Ferry of Stick and Stone and The Scarecrow is back with an irresistible holiday picture book. Tiny Cactus loves Christmas! But she doesn’t love that her little girl seems to be spending more time with the giant sparkly tree in the living room than with her. Maybe if she were decorated like the Christmas tree, her little girl would notice her again. And so Tiny Cactus makes a wish—to be special, to be noticed, to be a part of the magic of Christmas. With the support of her friend and some Christmas magic, Tiny Cactus learns that wishes can come true if you believe hard enough.
40 pages, Hardcover
First published September 12, 2023
1 person is currently reading
106 people want to read
About the author
Beth Ferry
43 books151 followersBeth Ferry is the author of the picture books Stick and Stone and Land Shark. Her family has cared for myriad pets, including two land sharks, a hedgehog, a blue-tongued skink, and a heap of hamsters, but her absolutely perfect pet is an English bulldog named Winston. She lives in New Jersey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
November 10, 2023
Loved it! Cute twist at the end.
December 21, 2023
Christmas cactus 🎄
It was so good I almost cried of how the cactus decorated herself then I saw her family gather around the daughter and said “I didnt know she was a Christmas cactus” it was so sweet and CUTE I just died of how cute this book is🥰😍❤️
It was so good I almost cried of how the cactus decorated herself then I saw her family gather around the daughter and said “I didnt know she was a Christmas cactus” it was so sweet and CUTE I just died of how cute this book is🥰😍❤️
November 22, 2023
Such a cute little story.
January 4, 2026
Tiny Cactus leads a happy life, cared for by her little girl, whose endearments for her—"little cupcake," "sweetest little bonbon"—always fill her with joy. Then one day something new and exciting happens, and our cacti heroine sees and hears and smells wonderful things. It's Christmas, and that means shiny decorations, an enchanting tree, and delicious-smelling cookies. Convinced that she too will take part in this holiday, Tiny Cactus waits to be decorated herself, only to find that her little girl seems to have forgotten her. Will her Christmas wish come true, will she find herself relegated to the shelf, only able to watch the festivities...?
Having read and enjoyed other books from both author Beth Ferry and illustrator A.N. Kang—in my previous job, I hosted book events for both—I was delighted to discover The Christmassy Cactus, and to track it down! Anthropomorphic cacti are not as unusual in picture book world as you might imagine—thinking here of Simona Ciraolo's Hug Me , or of Carter Goodrich's Nobody Hugs a Cactus —but this may be the first time I've seen a cactus character in a Christmas story. As unlikely as it might feel at first glance, it works perfectly here, as one plant life envies another, but most of all wishes to participate and feel appreciated. Ferry captures those feelings—so relatable for young children—in her engaging text, just as Kang ably depicts them in her adorable artwork. Although I saw the resolution coming, it was still most satisfying! Recommended to picture book readers looking for new and slightly unconventional Christmas stories that have real heart.
Having read and enjoyed other books from both author Beth Ferry and illustrator A.N. Kang—in my previous job, I hosted book events for both—I was delighted to discover The Christmassy Cactus, and to track it down! Anthropomorphic cacti are not as unusual in picture book world as you might imagine—thinking here of Simona Ciraolo's Hug Me , or of Carter Goodrich's Nobody Hugs a Cactus —but this may be the first time I've seen a cactus character in a Christmas story. As unlikely as it might feel at first glance, it works perfectly here, as one plant life envies another, but most of all wishes to participate and feel appreciated. Ferry captures those feelings—so relatable for young children—in her engaging text, just as Kang ably depicts them in her adorable artwork. Although I saw the resolution coming, it was still most satisfying! Recommended to picture book readers looking for new and slightly unconventional Christmas stories that have real heart.
October 24, 2023
If you want a picture book about a schlumbergera, aka Christmas Cactus you will be disappointed. Christmassy Cactus by Beth Ferry and illustrated by A.N. Kang instead focuses on what appears to be some kind of mammillaria. This becomes part of the story at the end, but if you are a plant nerd like me I wanted to let you know upfront so you don't get annoyed at the obvious misidentification.
Botany aside, Christmassy Cactus tells the story of a little cactus who is loved by a little girl. Everyday they hang out together. That is until Christmas time rolls around and the Christmas tree, along with all the other holiday decorations take center stage. The little girl stops spending time with Cactus and instead is entranced by tinsel, lights and pine. Every night the Cactus wishes that she will be decorated too but it never happens. Cactus's friend, a small elephant statue, tells Cactus to trust in the magic of Christmas and a wish can come true. Later that night the window blows open and Cactus becomes covered in snow, thus decorating her. You might think this is the end, but no. When the snow melts we see that Cactus has BLOOMED. Cactus decorated herself! That morning the family gather around in surprise because they didn't think Cactus was a Christmas Cactus. *cue audience laughter*
All in all a cute seasonal picture book that has absolutely lovely illustrations. (Reviewed by Jenna I.)
Botany aside, Christmassy Cactus tells the story of a little cactus who is loved by a little girl. Everyday they hang out together. That is until Christmas time rolls around and the Christmas tree, along with all the other holiday decorations take center stage. The little girl stops spending time with Cactus and instead is entranced by tinsel, lights and pine. Every night the Cactus wishes that she will be decorated too but it never happens. Cactus's friend, a small elephant statue, tells Cactus to trust in the magic of Christmas and a wish can come true. Later that night the window blows open and Cactus becomes covered in snow, thus decorating her. You might think this is the end, but no. When the snow melts we see that Cactus has BLOOMED. Cactus decorated herself! That morning the family gather around in surprise because they didn't think Cactus was a Christmas Cactus. *cue audience laughter*
All in all a cute seasonal picture book that has absolutely lovely illustrations. (Reviewed by Jenna I.)
November 3, 2023
It’s not really Christmas until everyone is included.
Jealousy comes in many forms, but it generally isn’t talked about in books about this holiday in my experience. I liked the fact that the author acknowledged how celebrations can accidentally leave some people – or cacti – out of the fun and what someone should do if they feel like they’re being left behind. This was a thoughtful exploration of how to deal with a difficult emotion and how to think the best of others even if their actions sting a little.
I was surprised by the fact that no one in this story thought to decorate Tiny Cactus, especially given how much she was loved by her little girl. When I was a child, I put small, light decorations on my family’s house plants at Christmas time. It would have been nice to know why these characters didn’t think of that solution as it was a pretty simple fix for the conflict.
One of the other things I liked about this tale was how realistic it is. Other than the fact that the cactus could talk, everything else was firmly rooted in what could really happen that would make the holiday season more memorable for everyone involved without requiring the intervention of anyone wearing a red suit and passing by in a magical sleigh. This is an uncommon choice for this genre, but it worked really well for the subject matter.
The Christmassy Cactus was heartwarming.
Jealousy comes in many forms, but it generally isn’t talked about in books about this holiday in my experience. I liked the fact that the author acknowledged how celebrations can accidentally leave some people – or cacti – out of the fun and what someone should do if they feel like they’re being left behind. This was a thoughtful exploration of how to deal with a difficult emotion and how to think the best of others even if their actions sting a little.
I was surprised by the fact that no one in this story thought to decorate Tiny Cactus, especially given how much she was loved by her little girl. When I was a child, I put small, light decorations on my family’s house plants at Christmas time. It would have been nice to know why these characters didn’t think of that solution as it was a pretty simple fix for the conflict.
One of the other things I liked about this tale was how realistic it is. Other than the fact that the cactus could talk, everything else was firmly rooted in what could really happen that would make the holiday season more memorable for everyone involved without requiring the intervention of anyone wearing a red suit and passing by in a magical sleigh. This is an uncommon choice for this genre, but it worked really well for the subject matter.
The Christmassy Cactus was heartwarming.
December 21, 2023
*The last few months of the year I've been "superhero'ed" out, so I know I won't make my usual 200-book goal unless I get creative. And by that, I mean children's books. I'm a librarian, so it's good for me to have some kids' books in my repertoire, too, right? (Okay, I might be slightly cheating, but... some of the kids' books I've read, I've really enjoyed, so I'm actually glad for a reason to cheat, lol).*
This was a sweet little book. Out of the kids' books I've read so far, it didn't have an art style that blew me away, nor did it surprise me, but it did certainly put a Christmassy smile on my face.
This was a sweet little book. Out of the kids' books I've read so far, it didn't have an art style that blew me away, nor did it surprise me, but it did certainly put a Christmassy smile on my face.
October 30, 2023
I really like Beth Ferry's books, and this one isn't an exception. This story -- of a cactus who longs to be made Christmassy -- is heartwarming, sweet, and very nice for Christmas. If your family has a Christmas cactus, this is especially apt. Moreover, the illustrations are very sweet in a boutiquey sort of way. This book is undeniably cute and will likely end up on the Christmas list of every Instagrammer who recommends aesthetic picture books for children -- this is not a bad thing. Just remember that I told you about it first ;)
November 30, 2023
Brief summary: Tiny Cactus was loved by a little girl every day. The child shared all the beautiful Christmas decorations but soon forgot about Tiny Cactus. The plant truly wanted to belong and celebrate with the family but couldn't figure out how until something magical happened Christmas morning.
Comments: Such a darling and precious story. I'll never look at a Christmas Cactus the same way again.
This book is illustrated with Christmas colors and a pink hue throughout.
Rating: 4/5 📗📗📗📗
Comments: Such a darling and precious story. I'll never look at a Christmas Cactus the same way again.
This book is illustrated with Christmas colors and a pink hue throughout.
Rating: 4/5 📗📗📗📗
October 22, 2023
A very cute Christmas season book. The illustrations have a vintage-y appeal and the book design is beautiful. A cactus is loved by a little girl until the Christmas decorations go up and another (much larger) green plant (Christmas tree) takes over her affection. On Christmas morning the cactus realizes it is also decorated. My only peeve was that this wasn't a "Christmas Cactus" like many of us have, but more of a stereotypical desert cactus.
November 9, 2023
This little book about a little cactus holds a little Christmas miracle. Cactus loves her spot on the shelf but is overshadowed by a beautiful Christmas tree in their house. She is plain and pokey, tiny and spiny and not decorated one bit. What's the surprise at the end of the book? You'll have to read it & see. (it's delightful)
Themes: Xmas/holiday, cactus, friendship, surprises
Ages: preK-1st grade
Pub year: 2023
Themes: Xmas/holiday, cactus, friendship, surprises
Ages: preK-1st grade
Pub year: 2023
December 11, 2023
Tiny Cactus loves being called "little cupcake", "little bonbon", and "little gingersnap" by her little girl. But when Christmas arrives and the Christmas tree gets most of the attention, Tiny Cactus begins wishing to be decorated like the tree so her little girl will pay more attention to her. Just when it seems the chance for her wish to come true is gone, a wintery surprise arrives and leaves her and her family delighted. Kang's adorable charcoal, pencil, ink, and digital illustrations perfectly compliment the sweet story. The way the cactus's wish comes true is brilliant and emphasizes the way people can sometimes make their own wishes come true in the most surprising ways. A delightful tale that highlights the ups and downs that the Christmas holidays can bring along with the light we each carry within.
December 20, 2023
A sweet story about Christmas wishes coming true - for a tiny cactus.
This is Tiny Cactus' very first Christmas and she is super excited. Her one wish is that she could be decorated also - like everything else in the house. Especially the giant Christmas tree. But as Christmas comes and goes, Tiny Cactus isn't so sure her wish will come true.
I really liked that Tiny Cactus had her own pet elephant!
This is Tiny Cactus' very first Christmas and she is super excited. Her one wish is that she could be decorated also - like everything else in the house. Especially the giant Christmas tree. But as Christmas comes and goes, Tiny Cactus isn't so sure her wish will come true.
I really liked that Tiny Cactus had her own pet elephant!
December 1, 2023
Tiny Cactus sits on a shelf, and every day receives endearing words from a little girl. But when Christmas time comes around Little Cactus feels as if she's being ignored. Her friend Elephant who sits on the shelf next to her gives her words of encouragement, and the magic of Christmas is revealed.
December 24, 2023
A little girl dearly loves her small potted cactus, Tiny Cactus. Then it's Christmas and it seems that everything is decorated for Christmas, especially the huge beautiful Christmas tree. Everything except Tiny Cactus. Tiny Cactus is so disappointed to not be decorated. Then Tiny Cactus makes a Christmas wish. A sweet book about believing in Christmas magic.
December 18, 2023
It seemed like the title gave the ending away, and the problem was slated to solve itself before it even began. So it was okay, but didn't inspire the passion I have for many other books by this author.
December 28, 2023
Any book with a darling holiday story that includes a charming main character and important lessons about friendship, self-acceptance, and the power of believing is going to earn a place on my holiday bookshelf!
January 4, 2024
1/4/2024 ~ Theme: beauty comes from inside us. (Did you find the portrait of Frida Kahlo?)
NOTE: The cactus as illustrated isn't really a Christmas cactus, though the story does lead the reader to develop empathy for the cactus.
NOTE: The cactus as illustrated isn't really a Christmas cactus, though the story does lead the reader to develop empathy for the cactus.
January 17, 2024
Beth Ferry is my hero because she created Stick and Stone, which is the best book ever. Christmassy Cactus is a worthy relation to them. Let's hear it for a Christmassy Cactus who dreams, has supportive friends, aspires, and fulfills her own dreams by being... exactly who she is.
November 18, 2025
Lovely illustrations! A Cactus is excited about all the Christmas festivities, but is feeling left out because of the Christmas Tree. She makes a Christmas wish and hopes it comes true in time for Christmas!
December 25, 2025
Cute little story of a beloved cactus feeling left out from all the Christmas preparations. When she isn’t given any decorations she despairs of ever being loved again. But Christmas is a time of miracles…
August 24, 2023
Squeals of delight!!!
September 13, 2023
Oh my goodness! Such an adorable book! Beth Ferry never disappoints.
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September 17, 2023Decently cute, but not my favorite. I liked the idea but really hoped the girl was going to decorate the cactus. Her parents probably told her not to though.
October 6, 2023
FANTASTIC!!!
October 12, 2023
This is literally the cutest holiday book I’ve ever read.
October 24, 2023
this was melt-my-heartstrings-cute!
November 6, 2023
Gosh - how lovely!!
November 14, 2023
Sweet story about feeling left out and Christmas spirit. Great art in this- vintage and warm style
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews