PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS
Surrounded by Santa, his elves, and reindeer
“No, surely,” Grace thought “he’s too early this year”
ABOUT
I Don't Feel Christmassy Yet is the debut picture book from Scottish musician and writer David McGinty (Endor, Fake Major) and illustrator Kirsty Hunter known for her work on Smithers & Wing and We Shall Fight Until We Win.
In its incredibly successful first festive season, the book was selected as the featured Christmas story by House of Fraser’s own Santa Claus, David and Kirsty enjoyed wonderful school visits, and our initial print run very nearly sold out. But most importantly we received lots of excited reviews from young readers and their parents. We’re delighted to offer I Don’t Feel Christmassy Yet for sale again in 2021 and can’t wait to hear more from our young readers.
KEY SELLING POINTS
Beautiful watercolour illustrations by Kirsty Hunter of nostalgic and festive scenes that are universal but recognisable to those familiar with Glasgow.
A modern story told in rhyme of a secular Christmas that favours the importance of family and togetherness over presents.
A great way to introduce discussions about anxiety and societal pressures with children in the context not feeling the way you think everyone expects you to feel.
DIGITAL PREVIEW
Take a look at I Don’t Feel Christmassy Yet in this digital preview.
SYNOPSIS
The shops are hanging their Christmas decorations and everyone is getting ready for the festive season. This is usually Grace’s favourite time of year but she just doesn’t feel Christmassy yet. She always has before, so why is this year different?
Grace tries everything she can to feel Christmassy, from writing to Santa to taking part in her favourite traditions. But nothing seems to help.
This year she just feels like something is missing.
REVIEWS
As Christmas approaches, a girl wonders why she doesn’t feel the holiday spirit in this illustrated children’s book.
With November beginning, spooky decorations are coming down and Santa-themed displays are going up. But for some reason, Grace, a white girl with blond hair, isn’t excited. Her older sister, who lives far away, sends her a chocolate-filled Advent calendar; last year, they tore open each door together, but now the candy just makes Grace feel sick. None of the usual holiday preparations, such as writing a letter to Santa, decorating the tree, or going to see the film It’s a Wonderful Life, get Grace in the mood: “Everyone feels Christmassy, everyone but me. / And there still isn’t even a star on our tree!” But on Christmas Eve, there’s a surprise arrival, and Grace at last feels “Christmassy.” In his debut children’s book, McGinty, a Scottish musician and writer, beautifully sympathizes with kids whose Christmas season feels lonely after an older sibling has left home. The subtle message, ably expressed in rhyming couplets, is that Christmas is truly about family. Debut illustrator Hunter’s skillful watercolor illustrations are varied and expressive, as in a charming spread showing Grace’s home with one side cut away, like a dollhouse’s.
Sweet but not saccharine reassurance for lonely younger siblings at Christmastime.
ARTWORK
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