The Blurb
It's time for the men to take over . . . NYT Bestselling author Sheila Roberts gives the best gift of all in this funny, heartwarming story that touches the very core of Christmas spirit.
At Christmas time, it seems as though a woman's work is never done. Trimming the tree, mailing the cards, schlepping to the mall, the endless wrapping - bah humbug! So this year, Joy and Laura and the rest of their knitting group decide to go on strike. If their husbands and families want a nice holiday filled with parties, decorations, and presents - well, they'll just have to do it themselves.
The boycott soon takes on a life of its own when a reporter picks up the story and more women join in. But as Christmas Day approaches, Joy, Laura, and their husbands confront larger issues in their marriages and discover that a little holiday magic is exactly what they need to come together.
Sheila Roberts makes me laugh. I read her books and come away inspired, hopeful, and happy.
- Debbie Macomber
The Review
This is the first Sheila Roberts book I've read, and she's not an author I'm familiar with at all. I haven't heard of her in the book blogging community or on the bookish forums; I haven't seen people tagging her books as 'to read' on Goodreads. And after reading On Strike for Christmas, frankly I'm surprised. There are other authors out there of a similar ilk who are better known but that in my opinion don't write with as much verve and insight.
This is a gentle book really, examining gender roles and Christmas tradition in a jovial way. I could certainly relate to Joy! When she's dashing about trying to create a festive environment for her family and conjure up a Christmas to remember, her husband Bob seems rather miserable about the whole affair. And she soon realises her household isn't the only one like that and there's a revolution on their hands! Can the men take up the reins? And can the women give up their control?
At times this book was a little bit twee, but overall it is a warm and cosy read to unwind with after you've been battling the crowds on the high street or slaving over a hot stove at home. You don't need to concentrate to enjoy the writing style which is conversational and flows at a steady pace.
It might be a little bit too gentle for me, but for fans of writers such as Debbie Macomber and Cecelia Ahern, I can imagine this is a perfect Christmas treat.
No comments:
Post a Comment