Review by Esar Rabadi
Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing Division, September 2022
288 pages. Paperback. CAD $15.99. 978-1-5344-7884-8
Young Adult, Ages 12+
Comedy/Humour; Romance
“Hector’s brother’s hatchback pulls up, but it is not Luis who is driving. Hector is.
“You have your license?” Alice asks as we pile into the back seat.
“I have a permit,” says Hector. My birthday’s in January.”
“This boy needs a lot of practice,” says Luis.
Luis is not kidding. Hector’s hands are firm at nine and three on the steering wheel, but
his speed is erratic and at every red light or stop sign he halts the car a good ten feet before he is
supposed to, creeps slowly up to the real stop line, and halts the car again.”
(pages 217-218)
Linda Urban’s Talk Santa to Me is a heartwarming holiday story that reminds readers of the magic of the Christmas season. With its endearing characters, festive spirit, and timeless message, this book captures the essence of what makes Christmas special.
At the heart of the story lies fifteen-year-old Frankincense (Francie) Woods, a teenager navigating the imminent upheavals in her life. Her parents, along with her Aunt Carole, have assumed control of Hollydale Holiday Shop and Santa School, following the passing of her grandfather, Chris, the acclaimed Santa. Amidst family disputes and her job at the shop, Francie grapples with the growing rift between her and her best friend Alice, and the painful memory of her first kiss.
The story takes an enchanting twist when Francie fills in for her father on the local broadcast, “An Evening With Santa”. Responding to children’s letters, she safeguards the enchantment of Christmas and learns that a little belief in magic can help us face life’s trials.
Linda Urban crafts a hilarious and relatable protagonist in Francie, capturing the emotions associated with family changes and the trials of growing up, making her character universally relatable. Her path towards self-assurance and self-honesty adds a relatable coming-of-age dimension, appealing to both teens and those who can reminisce about that pivotal stage in life.
The writing is accessible and captivating, engaging readers of all ages. Ideal for family reading or personal enjoyment, the book’s short chapters and well-paced narrative make it perfect for young audiences. The novel’s brevity is a strength, ensuring readers can savour the heartwarming tale without feeling overwhelmed, especially during the busy holiday season.
Talk Santa to Me goes beyond a heartwarming tale; it imparts essential messages about belief, resilience, and enduring love. Francie’s journey underscores Christmas’s true essence – the gifts of hope, love, and family are far more important than material possessions. The book highlights the significance of self-belief and holiday magic in the face of adversity.
Linda Urban’s Talk Santa to Me is a heartwarming holiday gem, offering a teenage perspective on growing up and loss. Urban’s storytelling, memorable characters, and universal themes make it a delightful addition to any holiday reading list. It reminds us that the magic of Christmas can be found unexpectedly, aiding us in surmounting life’s challenges. A charming gift for readers of all ages, Talk Santa to Me celebrates the spirit of the season.
Esar Rabadi is a BFA Creative Writing student at the University of British Columbia. She specializes in writing fiction and writing for the stage. Her work is often described as “unhinged” or “camp”; she disagrees but acknowledges that her work is a little bizarre. She loves Lana Del Rey.
YOUNG ADULTING 