Just So Stories

Published by Kristin Haynes

December 2025

It’s never any fun feeling left out and just as kiddos very often want to be part of the action and ‘help’, so does Hendrix want to be involved in the family Xmas preparations. But, nobody seems to want or need him.

Mum is busy with lists and lights, and all the planning, Dad is busily trying out recipes – and doesn’t need a taste tester! The kids are sorting decorations and don’t want Hendrix to get covered in bits of tinsel. And even Rocket has a job. He is on the couch guarding the cookies to make sure that each person only takes one a day. Hendrix feels very dejected – and rejected.

Being part of the family should mean being part of the preparations. Rocket tries to cheer his buddy up by suggesting that perhaps he just doesn’t yet know what his job is.

In the middle of the night, when all is quiet and everyone is sleeping – wait a minute! no, not everybody is sleeping. A small person, Hendrix’ big sister, is creeping quietly out to sneak peek at presents!!! Not on Hendrix’ watch!

The family is super proud of Hendrix being such a good present protector. This is the kind of story that kiddos will laugh along with while perhaps, somewhat uneasily, recalling a time when they tried to sneak peek as well.

It’s a simple tail – sorry, tale – and the boldly colourful illustrations are a great match for the narrative which takes a potentially unhappy slant on unwitting exclusion and turning it around successfully. It would certainly prompt some open conversations around helping, and making sure everyone feels included in a family/team/group. I give it a 3 🎄🎄🎄for readers around 6-8 years old.