When I saw this book, I thought there must be a mistake, how can you write a story to this beautiful, timeless, classic, wordless book. I should not have been worried, Michael Morpurgo has never disappointed before and he did not this time. I loved that he got permission from Raymond Briggs before writing this novella. This is a delightful book, drawing on Raymond Briggs' wonderful illustrated, wordless story, The Snowman. Using some inspiration from the Channel 4 movie, and adding some bits and pieces from his own creative mind, we have a wonderful story, both familiar and with some new bits. With Grandma visiting and getting to experience the magic of Christmas with the Snowman, it makes this a family story, with Christmas customs.

James, a child with a stammer who might be lonely and ostracized by classmates is sadly all too real. His new friendship with The Snowman and his family and friends, help him overcome his stammer and find his words. When he is accepted as he is, he develops confidence to develop fluency and overcome. Even though the illustrations are black and white, they bring the essence of the original story with them. At the end of the story, there was a section about Christmas traditions around the world as well as the art of snowman building. This will be a great story for families to read together during the Advent Season. Watching the movie and sharing the Raymond Briggs story will all make this a truly wonderful experience and family Christmas Custom. The publisher, Puffin, generously provided me with a copy to read upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own. ( )