The Greatest Reindeer

By Greg S. Paris, Indie author (2023)

Genre: Fiction/Children’s Christmas Tale

Pages: 199 (Paperback)

Note: We received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

You know Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen… But do you recall the greatest reindeer of all, Kris’s closest friend and protector, Cedric? He didn’t have a shiny nose, but Cedric shines bright in the pages of this expertly crafted blend of magic, myth, legend, and a betrayal that changed everything.

Masterfully told in the first person by the narrator, Rhangyl, The Greatest Reindeer is a heartwarming story about Northtown – you may know it as the “North Pole” – and the history of the man we know as “Kris” (Kringle). It’s also a fresh and creative tale about the origin of some of the best-known Christmas traditions and customs around the world.

The narrator pulls you into the story early on by speaking directly to you, the reader. He invites you to “join me on a journey through the ages, and together, we will rejoin the edges of history’s incomplete circle.”

Okay. Ya got us. We’re hooked. But there’s more. And it’s So. Darn. Clever.

Beginnings

Our story begins in a small, snowy village far in the north called Apricity. The village is near a dense, mystical forest. Averse to cutting down any trees due to their reverence for nature, the villagers allow the trees to grow so large that they block out the sun. Major problems ensue in the Farming and Feeding Departments. The town withers.

Meanwhile, a “well-travelled Christian royal from a faraway land” shows up. His name is Kris. He’s a military leader who’s tired of fighting. He just wants peace. Quitting the military, Kris becomes known for his charity and generosity. Seeking isolation and natural beauty, Kris wanders into the frozen wilderness of the North. He eventually meets a giant white reindeer who guides Kris into Apricity. The giant white reindeer is named Cedric.

Kris and Cedric join forces to help get Apricity back on its feet. Human and reindeer develop a strong bond and soon become inseparable. But rebuilding efforts run into unforeseen difficulties. More supplies are needed. Kris and Cedric determine to go into the fearsome forest for same.

Dynamic Duo

Without giving too much away, let’s just say that the “dynamic duo” encounters some unexpected obstacles but learn that the stories of the Evil of the Forest People are untrue. Instead, Kris is recognized as The Kindest Soul. As such, he’s chosen to receive a gift from deep within the mystical forest. Cedric is known as The Greatest Protector. He’s chosen to help Kris in his mission to spread joy throughout the world. (Mum’s the word about how they got their respective gifts, okay? For that, you’ll have to read the book.)

Origins

There’s also the origins of Santa’s sleigh. His red suit. Flying reindeer. Mrs. Claus. Sliding down chimneys to deliver gifts. Wreaths. Reindeer games. Also King of the Cold. Friendship. Loyalty. Love. The Sable Award. “Storytelling protection.” Protecting life. Selflessness. Actions are more powerful than words. Forgiveness. Faith. Magic and enchantment. The Cedric’s Heart Award. Much more.

Absorbing and utterly captivating, The Greatest Reindeer jingles with joy and bubbles with boughs of jolly (that’s not a typo). It’s a little The Polar Express. A little Prancer. A bit A Visit From St. Nicholas. A little It’s a Wonderful Life and The Santa Clause. It’s also beautifully written and artfully eloquent from Prologue to Final Page.

In Spades

Indeed, The Greatest Reindeer has all the essential elements of solid storytelling in spades. This includes memorable characters, a unique setting, a compelling plot, conflict, and resolution. It also features a distinct beginning, middle, and a satisfying end.

Radiating with warmth and wit, The Greatest Reindeer will melt any heart, including Scrooge’s. Bonus points: Animal lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and Christmasphiles of all ages will enjoy this lively and engaging tome.

The Old Curmudgeon was kinda skeptical when we started this book. But she warmed up to it. About time, Mom!

Mom: “Yo, Kimster! I can’t quite put into words how much I loved this book!! I skipped second breakfast, elevenses and afternoon tea to finish it.”

Mom also says, “The Greatest Reindeer is likely to become a Christmas classic.” No idea what that means. But if Mom likes it, then so do I.

So if you’re making a list and checking it twice for a rich and winsome read to warm your winter, be sure to grab a copy of The Greatest Reindeer.

He’ll go down in history…