Asher's Christmas Adventure


Children - Picture Book
48 Pages
Reviewed on 06/18/2025
Buy on Amazon

Author Biography

Cindy Vanous is a Texas-based children’s author whose stories are filled with heart, hope, and a touch of vintage magic. Inspired by classic picture books and real-life moments of quiet bravery, Cindy writes with emotional depth and a lyrical voice that resonates with readers young and old.

Her breakout title, Asher’s Christmas Adventure, introduced readers to a lost puppy’s heartfelt journey—and will be quickly followed by Asher’s Christmas Wish, a North Pole tale illustrated by longtime Dallas Morning News cartoonist Bubba Flint in September 2025. Her books have been embraced by libraries, festivals, and families alike for their timeless feel and meaningful messages.

Cindy’s path to authorship began later in life, driven by a lifelong love of storytelling and a deep belief in the power of words to comfort and connect. Every story she writes is a tribute to second chances, the magic of belonging, and the joy of discovering your place in the world.

When she’s not writing, Cindy enjoys photography, gardening, and collecting vintage Christmas cards—which often inspire the charm woven into her books. She lives in Texas with her husband and their beloved dog Asher—the very pup who sparked her first story.

    Book Review

Reviewed by Melinda Facal for Readers' Favorite

Asher’s Christmas Adventure by Cindy J. Vanous highlights the magic of Christmas time. Delightful illustrations by Hatice Bayramoglu evoke a cheery and charming vintage holiday season. Asher is the beloved dog of a young girl named Karen Sue. One festive Christmas Eve, Karen Sue and her parents leave Asher at home while they spend the evening at Grandma Helen’s house. Asher feels very sad to be left alone and soon begins exploring the neighborhood in search of someone to play with. Asher is a curious and playful dog, and he tries to befriend everything from squirrels to chickens. Eventually, this sweet dog ends up lost and far from his home. Asher misses his family terribly and wonders how he will make it home in time for Christmas. He needs some holiday magic.

Asher’s Christmas Adventure by Cindy J. Vanous shares an engaging story about the escapades of a lovable dog during the enchanting holiday season. Readers of all ages will be captivated by the high-spirited and endearing Asher, as well as the bright and detailed illustrations. The joy of Christmas is conveyed throughout this tale with merry decorations, baked goodies, and Asher’s warm and cozy home. As Asher explores his neighborhood searching for a playmate and then getting lost, children will be rooting for Asher to find his way home on Christmas Eve. Young readers will enjoy this heartwarming story as it celebrates the joy of being with loved ones during the holidays and the miracles that occur during this special time of year.

Joan Keith

Cindy's book was a fantastic hit at Christmas with my 2 grandkids Zoey -4 and Dylan - 6. Dylan is an avid reader and read us this book with enthusiasm and love. It has great illustrations to also keep children entertained as they read. Highly recommend for your children and grandchildren this coming holiday season.