Reviewed by Chad Richins for Readers' Favorite

In Ella's Letter to Santa by Ashley Hohmann, young Ella is the only girl in a family of four brothers, and her greatest wish is to have a baby sister. She eagerly wishes on a wishing star each night, imagining a sister to share secrets and adventures with. With Christmas approaching and the 'wishing on the star' trick not working, she decides to write a heartfelt letter to Santa, trusting that her good behavior throughout the year will bring her the sister she dreams of. The waiting period was not pleasant for Ella as she was anxious. Finally, she receives a Christmas shirt announcing she'll be a big sister, filling her with joy. Will her happiness last?

I found Ella's Letter to Santa to be a gentle and charming story, perfect for young readers grappling with sibling dynamics and the concept of acceptance. The plot is simple yet interesting, guiding us through Ella’s journey of hope, disappointment, and finally heartfelt acceptance. I loved how the pacing allowed for Ella’s emotions to fully unfold; nothing felt rushed, and each of her reactions was relatable and genuine. The characters are well-developed for a children’s book, especially Ella, whose open-hearted journey speaks volumes about family love and adaptability. The writing is direct yet warm, with a touch of holiday magic and attractive pictures that bring an extra layer of excitement to the story. This is a lovely book for young readers with a lot of lessons. Children and families will enjoy this heartwarming story, especially during the Christmas season.