The Star of Joy — Mary Kelly

THE STAR OF JOY



For many centuries, a magical book protected the Christmas Stars which made sure that Christmas was the most beautiful festival in the world. The festival of joy, generosity, hope and harmony.

But when Juliette, Klelia and Théo destroy the book, Christmas loses its magic. To restore its delight, Ginnie, the Christmas Fairy, decides to send the children to the East, in search of the Star of Joy.

But will they manage to find it before midnight, and restore the enchantment of Christmas?



EXCERPT



“We're searching for the Star of Joy,” replied Klelia. “We just have to find it, or else Christmas will be very sad this year. Nobody has been happy since it disappeared.”

“So what? We don't mind if we're unhappy.”

“Nobody likes to be unhappy,” objected Juliette. “Especially on Christmas Night, when all around joy and happiness reign.”

“Speak for yourself. Nobody here has any desire to celebrate Christmas,” the little boy insisted. “Can't you see that everyone is staying home?”

“Aren't you waiting impatiently for Father Christmas to come?” wondered Théo.

“I haven't asked him for anything and, anyway, he's warned us that he isn't going to come.”

“But, why ever not?” asked Klelia, astonished.

“How do I know? And what does it matter, we don't want to see him anyway.”

“I don't believe you,” protested Théo. “Father Christmas only lives for this night, to give children everything they wished for.”

“He's telling the truth,” interrupted Juliette. “Look.”

She showed them some posters on the nearby walls and doors.

“Father Christmas's visit cancelled. No use sending any letters to the North Pole. Ho, ho, ho,” read out Klelia.

“Do you think it's our fault?” asked Théo, worried.

“Oh, but he's wrong!” shouted Klelia joyfully.

Father Christmas was walking towards them.