About the Book

Christmas should be magical when your family runs a shop called Deck the Halls. But for twelve-year-old Krista Sorenson, the season is shaping up to be more stressful than merry. Her mom is going on bed rest during their busiest time of year, her stage fright has her stuck in the wings, and she can’t seem to form a sentence around her crush, Nate Alvarez.

When Krista discovers a mysterious Advent Box that seems to grant wishes, she thinks all her problems are solved. But as her wishes lead to surprising—and sometimes puzzling—results, Krista begins to wonder if the box might be trying to teach her something more. Then her grandparents announce they’re selling the store, and Krista must uncover the true purpose of the Advent Box—before it’s too late.

Warm, funny, and brimming with holiday cheer, this cozy family story is perfect for readers who believe in the magic of Christmas traditions—and a little wishful thinking.

I’m a former magazine and literature textbook editor and my work has been published in Mpls.St.Paul and FamilyFun magazines. Originally from Minnesota, I’m living in an old house called “Lolligogin,” just north of Baltimore, Maryland. My husband and I have four kids: one’s a filmmaker, another works for an organization that supports local artists, and the youngest two are in college. I love hanging out with my family and our two dogs, Teddy (golden retriever) and Kiri (border collie), knitting, reading, baking, and playing the piano and guitar. I learned how to row when I lived on an island in the PNW and I’m writing a novel based on that amazing experience. I’m also working on a cozy mystery series set in a small town on the Chesapeake Bay. 

You can purchase THE ADVENT BOX here or wherever books are sold.

Contact me at: shannon [dot] taylor [at] happycrow [dot] com