Second Chance Christmas: A True Story

Are exceptions ever made for children who scream and throw fits right before Christmas … right in front of Santa? Gifts and candy seem unlikely. Highly unlikely.
As one of six children growing up on a small Michigan farm in the 1970s, author Janet Defever knew that hard work was part of life on a farm. Boys and girls were equally responsible for work in the barns and fields, but household chores fell only to the girls. The disparity made Defever bitter and resentful, but the grievances of an eleven-year-old were seldom entertained. She envied her friends in town who were allowed to play sports and join the Girl Scouts, but Mom was clear about the differences: Those were things for the town kids; we had work to do.
It was five days before Christmas, and a request for the girls to do the dishes turned into a knock-down-drag-out between sisters — and was overheard by Santa himself. Gifts and candy seemed very unlikely.
Second Chance Christmas is the true story of that Christmas in 1971 and the lesson that unfolded over the following year. Being accepted for exactly who you are will always be a greater gift than anything found beneath a Christmas tree. And sometimes, a tangible reminder of that unconditional acceptance shows up … just when you need it the most.
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"Second Chance Christmas is a beautifully written and illustrated story about the author's memories of one special Christmas when she learned an indelible lesson about the nature of forgiveness. Vividly evoking the intensity and high emotions of a child's world, author Janet Defever puts us in the shoes of her eleven-year-old protagonist. Her fears, her resentments, and, eventually, her delight and understanding become as real to the reader as their very own experiences." —Lorrie Taylor, Director, Alma Public Library

"This heartwarming story details the importance of second chances! This message is a great reminder for kids and adults alike!" —John Helinski, Principal, Hillcrest Elementary

"Second Chance Christmas is a true gift in its message, which all children can relate to. It is a beautiful example of unconditional acceptance and how mistakes are opportunities for growth rather than a complete failure. Our elementary school had the pleasure of hosting Janet to read her excellent book, and our students were on the edge of their seats as the story unfolded. We were all blessed with the book's message." —Doni Schumacker, Principal, Crossroads Charter Academy

"Janet captures so beautifully the hard work involved when growing up on a farm, sibling rivalry, and
the greatest gift of all — forgiveness. Finding the bell gives hope that everything
is going to be alright. This story is so needed today." —Mary Kay Yonker, Principal, Sacred Heart Academy

"Children especially will delight in the wonders of Christmas as they read this story, while readers of any age can appreciate its message about the power of a second chance. This is a book you will reach for again and again." —Jill Johnston, Elementary Reading Specialist, Hillcrest Elementary

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Janet Defever is a fourth-generation steward of her family’s mid-Michigan farm, The Defever Homestead. Her love of nature and writing, combined with her experience as an MSU Advanced Master Gardener, were the beginning of the year-round children’s programs that she hosts at The Homestead. Second Chance Christmas is her first children’s book.
www.janetdefever.com

Janet Defever is a fourth-generation steward of her family's mid-Michigan farm, The DefeverHomestead. Her love of nature and writing, combined with her experience as an MSU Advanced Master Gardener, were the beginning of the year-round children's programs that she hosts at The Homestead. Second Chance Christmas is her first children's book.

TAJÍN ROBLES is an artist living in Traverse City, Michigan. This is his third illustrated children's book. Find more of his work at TajinRobles.com.