A Sampling of Reviews
"I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the message I took from the book. I felt this story had all the elements of a Hallmark Hall of Fame Christmas movie." ~ Christopher M. O'Connor, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
“Barbara Briggs Ward advances into the realm of adult novels with this sensitive, warm, transforming story THE REINDEER KEEPER. Her well-known and well-read illustrated children's book series 'SNARLY SALLY" (now with three books of that series on the shelves) has established her as a writer of skill and insight for children's literature. It is a jump to go into adult literature for some writers less facile than Ward, but in this fine novel Ward's secret of success is that she maintains the wide-eyed children's view of the world but places that vision through the eyes of adults. The story is a blend of harsh reality and magic and the manner in which Ward relates it is bound to impact every reader. And this time she joins with artist Suzanne Langelier-Lebeda for the simply and lovely illustrations that accompany this book....” ~ Read the rest of this review by Grady Harp of Los Angeles, CA by clicking here.
“Very heart warming and brought me to tears (in a good way). So well written and halfway through I realized that I didn't know where the story was going, which is a great thing. I really love being surprised by a story since most are so predictable anymore. I loved the characters, especially Abbey and Steve. Abbey is a strong female character whom I really admired and her marriage to Steve is something most people wish they could have... I want to say more, but I don't want to give away anything because I think if you are interested, you should definitely read it. This definitely captured the spirit of Christmas and I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a book to read for the holidays.” ~ Amazon Customer “Just a Happy Housewife”, East Peoria, IL
“Fire place blazing, snow falling in the woods, barn lit up, family stories of struggles and togetherness....all comes to life in this sincere and engaging narrative. An up-lifting gift to share.” ~ Amazon Customer Paul O’Connor
"If this book doesn't make you a believer again about Christmas nothing will. This was such a heartwarming story and I did not put it down until I was done....." ~ Read the rest of this review by "The World of Book Reviews” at: http://babs-worldofbooks.blogspot.com/2010/11/review-of-reindeer-keeper-by-barbara.html
"This is a charming read that will make you want to believe in Santa all over again. It makes you think about your life and happy times as a child. Abbey is a great character we can all learn from.If you ever want an adorable read with feeling this is the book." ~ Barbara Hightower "Babs Book Reviews" Taylors, SC
"This is a precious story that will get anyone in the Christmas mood. I already have all my Christmas lights up and after reading this book I immediately put my tree up early. This sweet story shows that even in any situation, you can still have a Merry Christmas." ~ Katherine Bartlet Dalton, GA www.ourwhiskeylullaby.blogspot.com.
"Your story was very heartwarming and deserves to be a beloved classic." ~ Joy Ramos Davis, Beyond 50 Radio Creator/Producer, Milwaukle, Oregon
"What a beautiful, well-written book! I found it difficult to put down once I began reading. The characters, setting, and tone are splendid. For those of us who may have become somewhat cynical or disillusioned about the Christmas holiday, I must say that this story will re-kindle your spirit." ~ Chloe Jon Paul, Bowie, MD
"I must tell you, through the tears and heartbreak, you have crafted a very nice Christmas story. Abbey and Thomas, and all the characters will come to my mind every Christmas. Certainly it reminded me of all the beautiful things my father taught me about th meaning of the holiday." ~ Brandon Amo, Watertown, NY
“The Reindeer Keeper is THE new holiday book for seasons to come! This well written, easy flowing read transported me into the lives of Abbey, Steve and their family for a heartwarming journey of emotions. It is a tale of love, loss, inspiration and acceptance that will leave your heart aflutter. I opened the book and could not put it down. It will leave you with hope and inspiration. Anything is possible. Kudos to the author, Barbara Briggs Ward for giving us a delightful gift for this holiday season and many generations to come. I Believe ;) “ ~ Ellen Emerich, Charlton, New York
"I loved reading this book and could not put it down. We were on our way home from Key West and I finished the book before we landed in Syracuse. I can't wait to read your next book!" ~ Kathleen Fields Pierce Lisbon, New York
“Dear Barb, Just back from vacation well rested. I read two books, one of them was yours. As I finished it I was thinking - ok I like this author, what else has she written and when will we see another book! I thought the book was wonderful. You are so insightful. It made me stop and think about how I view Christmas and a lot of other things. Thank you so much. I'll be looking for your next book. I sent mine to my sister in N.C. with instructions to send it back when finished. I loved it. Congratulations.” ~ Dawn Amo
"Facebook Friends: Do yourself a favor and buy Barbara Briggs Ward's "The Reindeer Keeper." It is the best book I have read in years - it is a keeper and great Christmas gift. I'm ready for your next one!" ~ Therese Kelly
“I had many things planned for my day off, but your book spoiled my plans. Once I started, I couldn't put it down. Anything that can bring emotions to the surface, albeit a painting, a play, beautiful music or a book, is high praise. And after many tears, smiles, and not expecting the outcome, I'm a believer!! Really enjoyed the book.” ~ Barb Burnett
"I ordered "The Reindeer Keeper" from Amazon, got it in three days and read it in two. I loved it! Made me feel that indescribable feeling of knowing you just heard the reindeer land on the rooftop." ~ LH Indiana
“The Reindeer Keeper is a heart-warming story about a woman named Abbey who inherits a farm with a barn full of reindeer. At the same time she seems to be inheriting a mysterious little old man with pointed ears who is the caretaker for the reindeer. The author draws from her childhood and her life in northern New York as she creates a setting of winter beauty: soft snow in moonlight, blustery cold winds in daylight, and the cozy farmhouse refuge with hot chocolate on the stove and cookies baking. Abbey's story is one of family love, and through the crisis she faces, she works to resolve her family's problems and cope with her own fears. She finds help from an unexpected source. This story brings back the magic of Christmas. In the midst of all the work and anxiety of Christmas in our day, this short novel returns you to the pure wonder of childhood Christmases. It's just what you need to restore your belief in Santa!” ~ Carolee at Amazon.com
More Reviews Can be Read on Amazon!
"I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the message I took from the book. I felt this story had all the elements of a Hallmark Hall of Fame Christmas movie." ~ Christopher M. O'Connor, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
“Barbara Briggs Ward advances into the realm of adult novels with this sensitive, warm, transforming story THE REINDEER KEEPER. Her well-known and well-read illustrated children's book series 'SNARLY SALLY" (now with three books of that series on the shelves) has established her as a writer of skill and insight for children's literature. It is a jump to go into adult literature for some writers less facile than Ward, but in this fine novel Ward's secret of success is that she maintains the wide-eyed children's view of the world but places that vision through the eyes of adults. The story is a blend of harsh reality and magic and the manner in which Ward relates it is bound to impact every reader. And this time she joins with artist Suzanne Langelier-Lebeda for the simply and lovely illustrations that accompany this book....” ~ Read the rest of this review by Grady Harp of Los Angeles, CA by clicking here.
“Very heart warming and brought me to tears (in a good way). So well written and halfway through I realized that I didn't know where the story was going, which is a great thing. I really love being surprised by a story since most are so predictable anymore. I loved the characters, especially Abbey and Steve. Abbey is a strong female character whom I really admired and her marriage to Steve is something most people wish they could have... I want to say more, but I don't want to give away anything because I think if you are interested, you should definitely read it. This definitely captured the spirit of Christmas and I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a book to read for the holidays.” ~ Amazon Customer “Just a Happy Housewife”, East Peoria, IL
“Fire place blazing, snow falling in the woods, barn lit up, family stories of struggles and togetherness....all comes to life in this sincere and engaging narrative. An up-lifting gift to share.” ~ Amazon Customer Paul O’Connor
"If this book doesn't make you a believer again about Christmas nothing will. This was such a heartwarming story and I did not put it down until I was done....." ~ Read the rest of this review by "The World of Book Reviews” at: http://babs-worldofbooks.blogspot.com/2010/11/review-of-reindeer-keeper-by-barbara.html
"This is a charming read that will make you want to believe in Santa all over again. It makes you think about your life and happy times as a child. Abbey is a great character we can all learn from.If you ever want an adorable read with feeling this is the book." ~ Barbara Hightower "Babs Book Reviews" Taylors, SC
"This is a precious story that will get anyone in the Christmas mood. I already have all my Christmas lights up and after reading this book I immediately put my tree up early. This sweet story shows that even in any situation, you can still have a Merry Christmas." ~ Katherine Bartlet Dalton, GA www.ourwhiskeylullaby.blogspot.com.
"Your story was very heartwarming and deserves to be a beloved classic." ~ Joy Ramos Davis, Beyond 50 Radio Creator/Producer, Milwaukle, Oregon
"What a beautiful, well-written book! I found it difficult to put down once I began reading. The characters, setting, and tone are splendid. For those of us who may have become somewhat cynical or disillusioned about the Christmas holiday, I must say that this story will re-kindle your spirit." ~ Chloe Jon Paul, Bowie, MD
"I must tell you, through the tears and heartbreak, you have crafted a very nice Christmas story. Abbey and Thomas, and all the characters will come to my mind every Christmas. Certainly it reminded me of all the beautiful things my father taught me about th meaning of the holiday." ~ Brandon Amo, Watertown, NY
“The Reindeer Keeper is THE new holiday book for seasons to come! This well written, easy flowing read transported me into the lives of Abbey, Steve and their family for a heartwarming journey of emotions. It is a tale of love, loss, inspiration and acceptance that will leave your heart aflutter. I opened the book and could not put it down. It will leave you with hope and inspiration. Anything is possible. Kudos to the author, Barbara Briggs Ward for giving us a delightful gift for this holiday season and many generations to come. I Believe ;) “ ~ Ellen Emerich, Charlton, New York
"I loved reading this book and could not put it down. We were on our way home from Key West and I finished the book before we landed in Syracuse. I can't wait to read your next book!" ~ Kathleen Fields Pierce Lisbon, New York
“Dear Barb, Just back from vacation well rested. I read two books, one of them was yours. As I finished it I was thinking - ok I like this author, what else has she written and when will we see another book! I thought the book was wonderful. You are so insightful. It made me stop and think about how I view Christmas and a lot of other things. Thank you so much. I'll be looking for your next book. I sent mine to my sister in N.C. with instructions to send it back when finished. I loved it. Congratulations.” ~ Dawn Amo
"Facebook Friends: Do yourself a favor and buy Barbara Briggs Ward's "The Reindeer Keeper." It is the best book I have read in years - it is a keeper and great Christmas gift. I'm ready for your next one!" ~ Therese Kelly
“I had many things planned for my day off, but your book spoiled my plans. Once I started, I couldn't put it down. Anything that can bring emotions to the surface, albeit a painting, a play, beautiful music or a book, is high praise. And after many tears, smiles, and not expecting the outcome, I'm a believer!! Really enjoyed the book.” ~ Barb Burnett
"I ordered "The Reindeer Keeper" from Amazon, got it in three days and read it in two. I loved it! Made me feel that indescribable feeling of knowing you just heard the reindeer land on the rooftop." ~ LH Indiana
“The Reindeer Keeper is a heart-warming story about a woman named Abbey who inherits a farm with a barn full of reindeer. At the same time she seems to be inheriting a mysterious little old man with pointed ears who is the caretaker for the reindeer. The author draws from her childhood and her life in northern New York as she creates a setting of winter beauty: soft snow in moonlight, blustery cold winds in daylight, and the cozy farmhouse refuge with hot chocolate on the stove and cookies baking. Abbey's story is one of family love, and through the crisis she faces, she works to resolve her family's problems and cope with her own fears. She finds help from an unexpected source. This story brings back the magic of Christmas. In the midst of all the work and anxiety of Christmas in our day, this short novel returns you to the pure wonder of childhood Christmases. It's just what you need to restore your belief in Santa!” ~ Carolee at Amazon.com
More Reviews Can be Read on Amazon!