I remember emptiness and sadness when Christmas was over for another year.

 

The feelings usually hit the day after Boxing Day when the presents had all been opened, the food supplies were dwindling and family visits were over.

 

All that big build up to 24-48 hours took its toll. Worse still, I knew I had a whole year to wait before I could experience the excitement and anticipation of the festive season again.

 

Many years later, now having children of my own, I wanted to write something that softened the blow of the end of Christmas for kids. To show them there were things to look forward to all year round. Signs of Christmas in every month of the year.

 

And Sprucey, a Christmas tree left alone and unwanted in a wood, made for the ideal vehicle to show that the joys of the festive season weren’t all concentrated in December.

 

Unaware he’s missed out on Christmas entirely, Sprucey experiences all kinds of traditions and weather conditions during his search for Christmas, which gave me a chance to show a Christmas tree in sunglasses sweating under the sun, which has to be a first!

 

Not wanting to give too much away here, Sprucey’s journey ends on a positive note in a Christmas picture book story for children that can be read and enjoyed any time of year.

 

The tale also has the benefit of teaching young readers about the months of the year!

​

I hope you enjoy Sprucey’s adventure.

​

​