It has been so long since I read an illustrated book. So when I got the opportunity to read one, I grabbed it at once. And I have to admit it was a fun read!
Larry was a nerdy caribou in school who got bullied and teased and was given the name Schmuck. He realized studies is the only way to get ahead in life, and he excelled in his courses. Then he got the best job in the world. He worked for SANTA!! Woohoo!! A snafu at work and there is a major crisis on Christmas Eve… Till… Ah you’ve got to read the book to know more.
A delightful, easy to read story with pragmatism and morals, fabulous illustrations by Karina Shor showing optimism and hope, cute poems on all the pages make this a perfect heartwarming Christmas story.
Diverse characters, simple message, different religions yet love in the heart makes this a fab read for everyone.
We have our differences, that’s for sure
But we’re all the same at the core
Christmas isn’t just about gifts, but the love underneath
It doesn’t really matter your religious beliefs
We give because we care, we love, and want to please
So there is room for everyone under our Christmas tree
And then came my niggles, the illustrations were a wee bit risqué, elves mooning showing off their tattoos. The initial writings could be a bit clearer.
I am not sure if this was a children’s book, but the story and the underlying message sure did warm my heart… Nothing can beat Christmas!!
I received a digital copy of the book, and this is my review straight from the heart.
Larry was just your regular caribou, who was cruelly excluded from his crew. He and his kin happened to be the sole Jewish reindeer in the North Pole. Larry was bullied and treated the worst way, until his plan saved one Christmas Day.
A contemporary satirical take on Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Schmuck the Buck introduces Larry, a young Jewish reindeer. He overcomes his awkward and sometimes painful youth to save Christmas. His tale of acceptance and inclusion is sure to warm the hearts of anyone who loves Christmas, Hanukkah, or both. Sixty pages of vibrant illustrations bring his story to life. A unique modern addition to any holiday library.
Publication date : 4th September 2018
Publisher : EXO Books LLC
16 Responses
I was trying to figure out, too, if this was a children’s book but I think that mooning illustration says it all
Great review!
Hehehe… It is kind of but not for small kids… The graphics were slightly risqué… I wouldn’t show my niece this book till she is in her teens probably
That’s awesome review


Yayyy thank you so much Priyasha… You are so sweet
The name of this book!

In my house, where no swearing was allowed, this word was definitely on the list of forbidden words.
Hahaha I learnt it much later much much later
My grandparents spoke Yiddish so ….
Hmm risque you say? I may have to look this up,
Hahaha look it up.. It is a fun read
Sounds like a fun book to read indeed!
This was sweet… How are you Dominique?
Somewhere between blah and meh. But I’ll be alright. xoxo
Ooooh just hold on… Some days are pretty bad but something will surely come up to make them shine again
No worries. I do believe you are absolutely right.
This would not be the first time a picture book was written for the parents who read it, hoping that the kids do not pick up on the risque stuff. Great review Shalini.
Thanks Carla, it is quite an obvious graphic… With bits and butt hanging