Hey there, friends! It’s 11-year-old Noah here again.

Did you know that the first snow globe was invented way back in the 19th century in Austria? People used to think they were just pretty decorations, but imagine if one trapped you inside with talking animals and a peppermint-scented maze! That’s the wild, twisty, and totally bonkers world of The Great Christmas Escape!

In this book, a bunch of furry (and feathered) friends find themselves stuck in a giant magical snow globe with shifting candy mazes, singing nutcrackers, and a very tricky Father Time. The story takes you on an epic adventure where riddles and teamwork are the only way to escape before Christmas is ruined! From the sassy fox to the brave bunny, every character brings something special to the team—and it feels like being part of the coolest group of misfit heroes.

The best thing about this book is how alive everything feels. The challenges are super creative (seriously, who thinks of baking invisible cookies?) and every twist keeps you hooked. The writing is funny but also makes you feel like you’re there, smelling the gingerbread and hearing the nutcrackers’ creepy marching. It’s the kind of book that makes you cheer for the characters, laugh at their jokes, and maybe even hold your breath during the tense parts. Plus, it’s all about friendship, bravery, and believing in yourself—perfect for kids who love adventure and a little magic.

There aren’t any scary or inappropriate parts, so it’s a safe, happy read for everyone.

Reading this book is like stepping into a snow globe that’s part puzzle, part roller coaster, and part Christmas explosion—it sparkles, surprises, and sticks with you long after you’re done.

How The Great Christmas Escape Ticks Off All the Criteria for the Noah’s Quest® and Friends Fave Book Award

• Age: It’s totally perfect for my age group. The animals and magical world are fun for kids without being too babyish.
• Engagement: Every page is exciting, with challenges that make you want to keep reading.
• Learning: It sneakily teaches teamwork, problem-solving, and a little about how important time is!
• Relatability: The characters are so lovable—they feel like friends, and their worries and jokes are really relatable.
• Emotion: You’ll laugh, gasp, and root for the heroes the whole way.
• Illustration: While there weren’t any illustrations in this version, the descriptions painted colorful pictures in my head.
• Creativity: It’s bursting with unique ideas like candy cane mazes and a singing gumdrop test!
• Readability: The words flow easily, and the action keeps you glued to the pages.
• Participation: It makes you want to solve the riddles and play along with the animals.
• Re-readability: I’d definitely read it again because the puzzles and fun twists never get old.
• Respect: The story respects every character and shows how different strengths matter.
• Authorship: Janae Haddad created a magical, cozy world that feels original and warm.
• Uniqueness: This is the most inventive Christmas book I’ve read—it’s like The Polar Express meets Escape Room but with a crazy cool twist!

So, yup—this book gets all the stars from me! It’s perfect for anyone who loves a good Christmas adventure with lots of heart and a whole lot of imagination. 🎄✨

Get a copy of the book from major retailers like Amazon or view it on Goodreads here.