Kris: The Legend Begins

by J.J. Ruscella

The story of Santa Claus is finally here!In this rich novel, the remarkable story of Kris restores the hero of readers' youth in the compelling tale of a man who, amidst his greatest struggles, gave to others.This compelling tale will transport readers into the mind of Kris as he grows from tragic boyhood experiences into the inspiring man who brings joy every Christmas season. The plague-ridden Norwegian countryside lays the setting for Kris's unexpected beginnings where he is forced to find homes for his seven orphaned brothers and sisters. Driven by loyalty and feelings of failure, this first delivery launches Kris through his young life in search of redemption.He becomes apprenticed to a carpenter and meets an extraordinary girl who makes him a unique red jacket. But there are reindeer to discover and a people the Norwegians refer to as elves, not to mention chimneys and cookies and stockings hung by the fire.The world has heard many stories about Santa. Here, for the first time, is Santa's story.

Genres: Fiction

267 pages, Hardcover

First published February 15, 2011

Reviews

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written, powerful, and heartwarming. I read this to my daughters (ages 10 and 13) over Christmas break; they loved it and, without a touch of shame, I admit there may (see WERE) joyful tears in my eyes at the conclusion. Reading Kris will now be a yearly holiday tradition for our family.

[Dawn M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Believe!

What a beautiful story of the Santa and Christmas. If you have forgotten what it is like to believe in Santa, you will surely remember while reading this book.

[Todd Strader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed this read. A very human story of struggle and triumph; of loss and recovery with just a hint of that mysterious Christmas magic.

There are a plethora of Santa Claus stories for children but here is one for the young adult or adult who still yearns for the magic. Ruscella has filled the void with an engaging story that presents Santa as he truly may have been a simple boy shaped by extraordinary circumstances. In Kris The Legend Begins we travel with young Kris as he is forged by life's trials and loving relationships alike. Set in the frozen north lands of the 18th century, Ruscella tells a captivating story with characters about whom we care. A holiday must read.

[Kristin · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a great story, and as far as Santa original stories go, it was very logical, entertaining, and touching. But. The writing was killing me the whole time. It was very choppy, to the point where I was being thrown out of the story repeatedly, and I kept wanting to shout "Put down the thesaurus!" So it could have been 3 or 4 stars, or it could have been 1. As it is, we'll give it a 2. Other people who aren't so picky about writing would probably enjoy it a lot more.

[Hans Erdman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. It is a fascinating and believable take on the legend of how Santa Claus came to be. It is also a story of a boy who comes back from tragedy (It's how the book starts, but keep reading, it's worth it!) and prejudice to become one of the most loved personages in the world. Too, it is a story of true faith and redemption. There are very few books that I would recommend without hesitation, and "Kris: The Legend Begins" is one of them.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review to come.

[Mark Polino · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kris was an interesting retelling of the Santa Clause legend. Bits of it remind me of Stephen Lawhead who brazenly, and plausibly, moved the legend of Robin Hood to Wales.

[Margo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book, easy to read. Legend of Santa Klaus.

[Diana Turner · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you believe in Santa then this is a must-read. It was a very entertaining interpretation of how Santa came to be Santa.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just adored this telling of Santa. It read like a wonderful historical fiction.

[Jerry C. Lowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third time I have read this book.
I love this story and will probably read it again in a few years.
Yes I believe Santa is real.
Thank you for this beautiful story.

[John Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great take on Santa Claus story and really got me in the Christmas spirit this year.