The Boy Who Cried Christmas


Christian - Fiction
227 Pages
Reviewed on 11/26/2020
Buy on Amazon

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    Book Review

Reviewed by Donna Parrey for Readers' Favorite

The FBI is called in when a young boy disappears from his New York City high-rise apartment, and readers of The Boy Who Cried Christmas by Dennis Bailey are off on an adventure that might be described as “It’s a Wonderful Life” meets “Polar Express” meets “CSI: NY.” Nine-year-old Logan lives the rich-kid life, but kindness to a homeless vet sets off an unlikely string of events that brings Logan back in time to witness the birth of Jesus. Meanwhile, his parents are frantic, the police are perplexed, and FBI investigator, Marcus, is troubled by his own connection to the event. This book is a study in relationships … the increasing conflict between Logan’s parents, agent Marcus’s troubled past, the introduction of Wendell and the uncertainty about his intentions, and more.

Author Dennis Bailey holds the reader’s rapt attention by alternating the chapters between Logan’s experience in ancient Israel and current-day happenings back home. The Boy Who Cried Christmas excels in character development, and Logan’s sharing of his beloved Chick-Fil-A lunch with a homeless man is just the start. While the protagonist is a child, the FBI agent’s consideration of suicide, the threat of a beheading in Israel, and an atheist’s bomb-making research all contribute to a concept appropriate for mature readers. More importantly, Logan’s character arc is intriguing for readers to witness as he develops relationships with the shepherds. This is a Christmas story unlike no other. Yes, it’s a Christian theme, but the action in both New York City and ancient Israel will keep readers captivated through to the book’s stunning conclusion.

Susan Sewell

A young boy disappears from his ten-story bedroom a few days before Christmas, and the only clue the FBI has is the fingerprints of a man who died seventy-six years earlier in the fascinating Christian novel, The Boy Who Cried Christmas by Dennis Bailey. After spending a day of Christmas shopping with his mother, Logan is surprised to find Robert, the homeless veteran he shared his fries with earlier, in his bedroom. Logan agrees to go with Robert on an excursion and is quickly surprised to discover he is long gone from New York City. Left in the care of Simeon, a Judean shepherd, Logan has the opportunity to meet the Messiah and his parents. Robert brings him back to the future with the charge to tell his story. However, when Logan returns to his New York apartment, no one believes him. Has Logan's inexplicable journey made a difference?

The Boy Who Cried Christmas by Dennis Bailey is a delightful Christian tale that will entertain believers of every age. It is an enchanting story where a boy from the twenty-first century visits the countryside of Judea at the time of Jesus' birth. Moving between the past and the present with ease, the contrast between the biblical era and the present day effortlessly meld together, creating a dramatic story that is intriguing and profound. Brilliantly portrayed, the captivating imagery of the settings enhances the plot and storyline. Complete with angels, baby Jesus, and Mary and Joseph, it is an exceptional novel that will enchant those who enjoy Christian-based Christmas stories.

K.C. Finn

The Boy Who Cried Christmas is a work of fiction in the Christian fiction, holiday, and adventure sub-genres, and was penned by author Dennis Bailey. A classic tale that could be enjoyed by independent readers of all ages, we find ourselves situated in a unique and surprising Christmas story with our protagonist, the nine-year-old Logan Ailshie. Selfish, spoiled, and a proven liar, little Logan meets a shocking adventure head-on when he finds himself transported back to the birthplace of Christianity. As Logan explores the true meaning of Christmas, his revelations lead him to poignant change, but will it be believed after his previous behavior?

Author Dennis Bailey has crafted a holiday read that will sit warmly in the hearts of all Christian readers at this time of year, but one which also has some very thought-provoking moments for us all in this modern world. One of the things that I really admired about the crafting of the work was that the author was able to produce a balanced narrative that all readers can engage with and enjoy, much like that of a classic fairytale. What results is a Christmas story with a truly timeless feel. I also really enjoyed the presentation and development of Logan throughout the story, with plenty of dynamic dialogue and an emotionally sensitive handle on the narrative of a nine-year-old hero. Overall, I would certainly recommend The Boy Who Cried Christmas as an ideal read and a wonderful gift for Christian family members at this time of year.