Very clever and entertaining story for children; a light read for adults as well - I sure enjoyed it. The writing is engaging and the characters are rounded out despite the brevity of the book. Both Aben and Ivy, the naughty little girl, have quite a bit in common. And similar lessons to learn. I particularly liked the chapters focusing on their friendship. The illustrations add to the overall story. And the story ends on an up note. One quibble... there is a lot of emphasis on Ivy hating Christmas. She lives with her aunt and not her parents. Mother is lost to her, dad is absent. I would have appreciated a bit more background or explanation as to her family situation and how she came to hate Christmas.
