Thursday, December 31, 2009

A.E. Wright Middle School

I just wanted to take a moment to thank the 7th Grade Language Arts teachers at A.E. Wright Middle School, in Calabasas, California, for choosing The Paper Bag Christmas as their December reading project.  It's been wonderful to get so much positive feedback about the book, both from the teachers and the students. I'm told that their final assignment, following vacation, may include a note to me.  How nice!  Maybe some of them will even want to post their letters here....(hint, hint)...

Go Spartans!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!


296 comments:

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The Armitage Family said...

What an awesome feeling to have young readers using your work as part of their education! You rock, bro! Love ya!

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Justin Lester and I recently read your book Paper Bag Christmas in my language arts class. I thought it was an excellent book and in this letter I will list some reasons why as well as how it has affected me.
I found that your book had the power to teach others lessons about serving those who are not as fortunate as you are. I have also learned that giving is better than receiving because of the feeling you get from others joy.
After reading this book I have decided to help others more often. I'm not sure how yet but I know eventually a time will come when I am needed. I've learned that family and friends are very important because you can count on them for almost anything. They also provide support in your life, and you can give the same to them.
I thank you for your book, and wish the best for you. I hope others will get the message that your writing has provided for them.
Yours truly,
Justin Lester

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hello my name is Erica Gould; I go to A.E.Wright Middle School, I am in 7th grade, and I am twelve years old. I truly loved your book The Paper Bag Christmas. The book really show the magic of Christmas.

At times your book was funny, made me smile, and sometimes made me want to cry. I am so glad I read such a great book this holiday season.

I have changed in so many ways after reading this book. I appreciate how lucky I am to be healthy. Also I am grateful not having terrible tragedies in my life. I think your book teaches people in general to be grateful for what you have. As you can see I really enjoyed your book. I hope to read another one of your books soon.

yours truly,
Erica Gould

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hi, I'm Hailey, a 12 year old girl from A.E. Wright in Calabasas, CA. The Paper Bag Christmas was an amazing book that made me want to volunteer at a children's hospital over the holidays.
In the Paper Bag Christmas, I liked how the kids weren't excited to go see Santa at the mall, until they got in line right in front of the Toy Store and wrote everything imaginable down, and didn't even realize how fortunate they are to be able to get all those gifts. I also like how Katrina was nice after all, and gave Madhu his Christmas Present, her liver.
This book changed the way I feel about Christmas. This winter break I tried to volunteer at a children's hospital, but i had to be 18 or older. Also, under the Christmas tree I had 18 presents, and i was really thankful that I got all those presents, when a lot of kids don't get what they REALLY want or need for Christmas.
Thank you for letting me know the true meaning of Christmas.
Yours Truly,
Hailey Fitzpatrick

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,

My name is Anna Page go to A.E.Wright Middle School. I think your book is very interesting and really shows the importance of family, friendship, and serving others.

The Paperbag Christmas is an intriguing story. Your book tells everyone what the real meaning of Christmas is. It tells the reader that Christmas is not about presents or Santa Claus; it's about something unexplainable and very special. The Paperbag Christmas is a story that shows the importance of family and friends. I was impressed.

Ever since I read your book, I started understanding the true meaning of Christmas. The true meaning of Christmas is something you can only understand if you are rich in spirit, not worldly. I truly understand, now, that Christmas is not about presents. Your book shows the importance of family and friends very well. It made me understand that there were people in the world that didn't have any friends or family. After I finished reading your story, I noticed that there were many people that don't appreciate their family or friends.

I enjoyed reading your book. It taught me many valuable lessons that I never thought I'd learn.

Sincerely,
Anna Page

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Austin Zimmerman, I go to A.E Wright Middle School, and I am in seventh grade. We recently read your book,The Paper Bag Christmas, it is one of my favorite books of all time.
What I liked about The Paper Bag Christmas is that it taught lessons to greedy selfish kids or adults. It showed the people who read your book what the real meaning of Christmas is. What the real gift is being healthy and being with your loved ones.
One lesson I got from this book is being not as selfish as I was before reading this book, another thing is appreciating what you have and not taking it for granted. The importance of your book is telling straight out to the people who need to improve in those ways and appreciate what they have and know that there is other people out there in pain and don't have what we have because of how lucky we are.


Thank You Mr. Milne, for making me different and care about others more.
Yours Truly, Austin Zimmerman

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne

Hi im Ricky and I really enjoyed reading your book, "The Paper Bag Christmas." I have brown eyes, brown hair, and im about 5 feet tall. I have to say your book was mind blowing.

In your book, I really liked how you gave details cause it really made things a lot more clear. Another thing i liked was that you left me hanging at each end of the chapter, witch was making me on the tip of my seat.

Your book taught me a valuable lesson, I have changed a lot since i have read it.I think of others before myself much more now too. I am very glad you wrote this book, cause in a way it changed my life, and probaly others too. You made me think a lot about friendship. This Christmas i thought of what other people wanted instead of myslef, and i owe that to you.
I hope you keep writing books because you are an amazing writer.
Yours truly
Ricky ( A E Wright Middle School)

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,

I am a student at A.E. Wright Middle School. My name is Gwen Lewi and me and my fellow students have read your wonderful book, The Paper Bag Christmas. This book has been a joy to read and has tought me the true meaning of Christmas.
This book has touched my heart more than any other book that I have read. I no longer think of Christmas as just presents, but I now think of the spirit and joy. I also enjoyed all of the characters personalities and details about them.
Now instead of getting presents I have decided to give more this year. The importance or your book is to teach people the true meaning of Christmas and you have succeded in your goal. This year I have put extra thought into other peoples gifts instead of just mine. I have also learned the true meaning of friendship.
I enjoyed reading your great book very much! I hope to read some more of your fabulous books!!!!

yours truly,
Gwen Lewi

Ms. McDonnell said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

This morning you will be receiving a number of letters from seventh graders in my English language arts class at A.E. Wright Middle School.

We all hope you will enjoy reading our letters and hearing our thoughts about The Paper Bag Christmas.

Your story is touching and powerful; thank you so much for sharing it with us!

Sincerely,
Ms. McDonnell

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,

My name is Rene Sanchez,I am form AE Wright Middle School, Calabasas,California.I have read your truly amazing book,Paper Bag Christmas.Through the days I have read,Paper Bag Christmas I was truly shock and touch.

I have like the story how one kid truly embraced the true meaning of Christmas.This book had very
amazing characters and thrilling parts of the story.

I am completely shock and changed the meaning of Christmas to
me.I believe that toys doesn't make me happy its me that giving toys makes me happy.

Paper Bag Christmas,is the best book ever.


Your's Truly,
Rene

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hello my name is Rachel Silber and I am a student at A.E. Wright Middle School. We just finished reading Paper Bag Christmas. We really enjoyed discussing your book in class. Mrs. McDonell Our L.A. teacher just loved your book.

I really enjoyed your book because it talked about the importance of selflessness acts and how the importance of a selfless act that Katrina did by donating her liver to Madhu even though they were not related. It was very beautiful part of the story. the other part of the book that i loved was when Dr. Ringle gave the children faith and hope when they had nothing.

The two things that really got me when I was Reading this book was when Mr.Milne talked about the importance of family and friends serving others. That part got me because it talked about how caring some people actually are. This book did change me because it made me see how other people can help others without being asked to.

This changed me in a way that many other books Can't. I would like to thank you for writing this book to show what real christmas spirit is

Yours truly,
Rachel Silber

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne
My name is Devin and I think The Paper Bag Christmas has a great message to all, old and young. As I was reading your book, I found that it started very casual but later as I read on on, I realized that there was more to it than what it started off to be. In the beginning of the book, I felt like it was more of a kid's book and it did not have a real central message. However even though I am not to fond of some children's books, I felt this one was not just for kids, but also has a message for all ages and one I could relate to very easily.
There were two points in the story I enjoyed and really thought about even after I finished the book. The first was when Molar helped "Santa Claus"get through to Katrina, even though she was rude to him. Molar had a friend ship with Katrina even though they did not realize it at first. Second was when Molar went to extreme lengths to get Katrina into the pageant and how he really made a strong connection while helping her. Those two parts really stood out and taught me that you should help people and maybe they will try to be more grateful.
When I have learned through all the events that Katrina and Molar have gone through is that as both of them were getting to know each there better. I realized that the true meaning of friendship is to always help others and if you help them well enough they will learn, from being helped, to also help others. What I will do is to remember family is the most important this when someone is in need to help your family and serve others with your family because it is good for you and your family and the person you are helping. The reason is because when your are together with your family you are having together time and some one else is getting while your are spending time with your family.
I had different experiences while reading your book and realized that even though this is a fiction book it still has a nonfiction message which will be great for all. Everyone who reads your book must get a realization about everything around them

Yours truly,
Devin Behjatnia
A.E. Wright Middle School

Anonymous said...

Dear MR. Milne
My name is Alex Horland and i am a student at A.E.wright. Most of the time don't like reading but this book i did like reading. The book was dramatic, funny, and heart warming it blew me away.
I liked the Paper Bag Christmas because it was so dramatic how could anyone make a better book. Madhu made me laugh from his fast talking voice and funny jokes. Nurse Wimble was also a great person in the story because without
her there would be no evil in the story. My last comment that i would like to share with you about the book was how nice katrina was in the end.
One thing that inspired me in the book was that Aaron, Moe, and Madhu could change a selfish little girl to a nice young women. I also learned that i should never treat someone the way they don't want to be treated.
It was very nice of you to make this book and i hoped you liked my comments.

Yours truly,
Alex Horland

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Leah Moffett. I am 12 years old, I go to A.E,Wright middle school, and I loved THE PAPER BAG CHRISTMAS. I thought the meaning of the book was great. I could really tell how you changed, but was surprised that you were the younger brother. I thought that was a great lifelong lesson.

There are many reasons why I loved THE PAPER BAG CHRISTMAS. One reason why is because you made it seem so easy to be nice to all the kids in the hospital. It almost seemed like that the story was fiction and not real life. Another reason why is that in the end you included your kids in the story, I really loved that.

Since I read THE PAPER BAG CHRISTMAS, I have changed in many ways. I have looked in to what it would take to visit the children hospital in Los Angeles. I would like to do what you did, but not just during the holidays. I have noticed that most people only visit the kids near the holidays, and I would like to change that. The other way I have changed is that I now don't look at people's appearance. Instead I try to see what they are on the inside. That is how THE PAPER BAD CHRISTMAS changed me.

Thank you so much for writing the book I hope that you I can read it again soon. Please keep writing books like this because it really tells a leason. I hope your kids learned the same lesson you did. once again thank you.

Yours truly,
Leah Moffett

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Emmy Tendler and I live in Calabasas California. I attend A.E. Wright Middle School as a seventh grader and read your book, The Paper Bag Christmas, in my language arts class. Before I started reading your book, I knew it would be a meaningful book!
I absolutely loved your book for two main reasons. One reason is that you put so much depth into your book, which helps me strongly feel the characters’ emotions. The second reason is that although your book is very sad, it is still very exciting and I was extremely eager to know what would happen next.
After reading this book, I have changed in many different ways. Now I know what the true meaning of Christmas is. I used to think Christmas was the day of presents and Christmas trees and decorations and what not, but now I know the exact meaning of Christmas. The importance of reading your inspirational book is to realize what Christmas truly is, to appreciate everything you have such as friends and family and to always remember the people who truly care about you. It is also important to be grateful for your health and to respect other people around you. Lastly, it is important to be thankful for teachers, because without teachers, nobody would know anything or have any knowledge.
Thank you so much Mr. Milne for writing this life-changing book. I really learned a lot of new things, especially to appreciate and be grateful for what you have.

Yours truly,

Emmy Tendler

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Roni Nisim; I go to A E Wright Middle School. I am very happy I read your book The Paper Bag Christmas in my language arts class.
One thing i liked in your book was that there was a bad side in it. Everyone in the Hospital cared for each other and were nice but then there is also Nurse Wimble that is very mean. another thing i like about your book was that Dr. Ringle was Santa Claus.
i think that the importance of you book is to show people that Christmas isn't a holiday just to get presents but to show love to others. i think i learned to appreciate more from reading your book.
Thank you for taking your time to read this letter. i really enjoyed reading The Paper Bag Christmas.
Sincerely,
Roni Nisim

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Tayler Elder and My class read your book Paper Bag Christmas. I would just like to say that I really enjoyed your book. This book made me want to volunteer at a children hospital. But sadly I didn't get to and I really how to do it soon.
I really thought your book was a great was to tell kids that we should be more apprecative and we should try to think about others and help the. I love the way you told people that. I think you told us in a more joyful way than the truth is.
I honestly loved the characters in this book. I liked Katrina. I liked how she's a stubborn person on the outside but a sweet loving girl on the inside. I also liked Madhu. I thought Madhu was still very happy even in his condition. He tried to make the best of it and even though he had a horrible sickness, he is still happier and more joyful then some rich spoiled people I know.
I really and truly think this book changed my life, and it ,made me think that I should be happier and more joyful then where I am now.

Thank you very much for writing this book. Hope to read more,
yours truly,
Tayler Elder

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Hailey Hesterman, and I am in the seventh grade at A.E. Wright. I read your book, The Paper Bag Christmas. This book truly opened my eyes in a new perspective and made me care less about the presents and care more about the true meaning of Christmas. I have to be honest that this book made me cry, yet smile. It was really sad when Katrina passed away, but it was happy to know she would be in a better place without all the pain. I hope other people who read this book will appreciate their lives and know somebody is there for them always, and that somebody is God.
As I said before, this book was sad, but happy things happened too. I really liked The Paper Bag Christmas because it shows you how lucky you are to be able to spend Christmas with your family at home instead of at a hospital. I also liked that it taught you the true meaning of Christmas, Jesus’s birthday and to love, share, and give. So far, this is the best Christmas book I have come across. I also liked how Dr. Ringle helped all those poor, sick kids in need. Katrina was so sweet to donate her kidney to Madhu. Katrina saved that boy’s life.
Before I read this book, I worshiped God and Jesus. I knew it was Jesus’s birthday too, but I cared more about the presents. They were more fun and exciting. Now after reading the book, I care much more about Jesus’s birthday. My family is very important to me, and if I didn’t have a family to take care of me and love me, I wouldn’t know how it would feel to be loved. I would be stuck in an orphanage hoping someone would adopt me. My family loves and cares for my needs. They love me through the good and tough times, they love me no matter what.




Yours truly,


Hailey Hesterman

Anonymous said...

4029 Las Virgenes Road
Calabasas, CA 91302
January 2, 2010

Dear Mr. Milne,

I am Sofia Chambers a student a at A.E.Wright middle school. I just read your outstanding book called “The Paper Bag Christmas”.
What I loved about your book is the concept. The way you put it inspires other people to help out. One more reason I liked you book is that it tells you about the true meaning of Christmas. My favorite part is the first page of the introduction.
The book has changed my life because lately I have been helping people. Even though it was the tiniest thing, it makes a difference in their life. His book is a great way to show it doesn’t matter how much you help, it is the thought that counts. Also because of your book I asked my parents if we could go help the needy. It was very fun! I help abused kids buy clothes and toys. At my temple we go to the Sova Food Pantry, and make bags full of supplies. Like toothpaste, books, journals, pillowcases, and a lot more. Without a family you cant have all he love and support. I am so grateful of what I have. I am also so thankful for my family and friends.
I would like to thank you for writing that book. Just because of that book you opened the eyes of younger kids. Thank you so much!

Yours truly,
Sofia Chambers

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne

Hi, my name is Trevor Woodruff and I am a student in A.E.Wright Middle School. I read your book The Paper Bag Christmas and I was not sure if I would really like it. I started to read the book and after a while I didn’t want to put it down. It was a great book and it also had a lot of meaning.
My favorite part of the book was how every body got along so well at the hospital. I’ve been to a hospital before and none of them are as nice as this one. You must have worked very hard to be able to come up with all of the things you did. I also liked when Dr. Ringle disappeared at the end of the story. It was a great cliff hanger that I now and then think about. Most of the kids in my class shared different ideas but I can’t decide.
Since reading The Paper Bag Christmas I learned how I could be nicer. When Molar got Katrina to go to the pagent, I realized how nice it really was. Before I probably would of just skipped it and thought it was boring.
Thank you for your time.

Yours truly,
Trevor Woodruff

Anonymous said...

4029 Las Virgenes Road
Calabasas, CA 91302
January 2, 2010

Dear Mr. Milne,

I am Sofia Chambers a student a at A.E.Wright middle school. I just read your outstanding book called “The Paper Bag Christmas”.
What I loved about your book is the concept. The way you put it inspires other people to help out. One more reason why I liked you book is that it tells you about the true meaning of Christmas. My favorite part is the first page of the introduction.
The book has changed my life because lately I have been helping people. Even though it was the tiniest thing, it makes a difference in their life. His book is a great way to show it doesn’t matter how much you help, it is the thought that counts. Also because of your book I asked my parents if we could go help the needy. It was very fun! I help abused kids buy clothes and toys. At my temple we go to the Sova Food Pantry, and make bags full of supplies. Like toothpaste, books, journals, pillowcases, and a lot more. Without a family you can’t have all the love and support. I am so grateful of what I have. I am also so thankful for my family and friends.
I would like to thank you for writing that book. Just because of that book you opened the eyes of younger kids. Thank you so much!

Yours truly,
Sofia Chambers

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
It is an enormous honor to be writing to the genius who wrote The Paper Bag Christmas. My name is Natalie Yakobain, and I am currently attending A.E. Wright Middle School, where in our langue arts class we have completed reading your book. I must profess to you that I was skeptic about reading a book about Christmas being Jewish, coincidentally though the summary entranced me and sparked my intress in the book. By reading it I learned (from Muddu especially) that it doesn’t matter what religion you are but what your actions are. His extraordinary book teaches an important life lesson that adolescent in middle school, such as my classmates and I, sometimes need to be reminded of.
One o my favorite parts of this book was how Katrina grows. Before she was so unconfident, sure that nobody would ever like her, but then she finds a friend. I loved the way you made Molar be patient with her, and how he told her she was beautiful especially on the outside. The way you wrote it really made you get a feel for the characters, I felt Katrina’s sorrow and joy, and Mo everlasting determination to help her. Another beloved part of your story was the end. I very much enjoyed seeing Mo grown up and married to the endearing Lynn. In the end you also showed how history repeats itself. Now Molar will enrich his children’s lives, and from my hypothesis the will do the same and so forth. The book overall gave me a overall feeling of contentment. One of those moments where you feel like the sun is warming your whole soul.
Your book is such an importance because it is a wake up call to not juge people. It shows us that just because we may look different , it the values and the impressions that we leave behind as memories. Your book tells not to “judge a book by its cover”, a lesson we have been taught countless of times but not like this. We have never really seen the big picture, but your book highlights it for us to see. One of your book lessons was of the importance of family, friendship, and serving others. This is important to everyone because what life really boils down to is not what people think of you, or how you look, its family, friends, and helping others. Your book reminds us of this.
I just want to thank you for writing this book. You reminded of key qualities to have and not to judge people for looks or religion. Thank you.
Yours truly,

Natalie Yakobian

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne
Hi, my name is Jonah Swigart.I really enjoyed The Paper Bag Christmas.
One thing that I liked about your book is the feeling that you get at the end of the book. Another thing I liked was the ways that everything connected at the end. I liked how Mudhu got a heart and how the janitor had the money to pay for his brother.
Since reading your book,I take more things into consideration. I am more thankful for the things I and the stuff I get. I an going to serve other by treating them the way they want to be treaded.
I would really enjoy hearing from you in the future.
yours truly,
Jonah Swigart

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne
Hello, my name is Tiana Stauffer, and I am writing this letter to tell you what I think on your book The Paperbag Christmas, which I thought was a very good book.
The Paperbag Christmas was a good book for several reasons. I thought this story showed what true friendship was and how to be a team and be kind to everyone and be a friend to everyone, even if they might be different than you. It also showed how to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas, and to think of your family and friends, not material things.
After reading this book, I really thought things over, like what Christmas is really about. One thing I thing I learned was that you shouldn't take your family and your health for granted. Reading this book I learned how important family, friendship, and serving others is. I'm really going to try to serve others more, like helping out at hospitals if they need a hand.
I'm lucky that I got the oppurtunity to read your wonderful book. I really enjoyed it.

Yours truly,
Tiana Stauffer

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
I am a seventh-grader from A. E. Wright Middle School. My Name Is Marina Basta. I have read The Paper Bag Christmas, and it is now one of my favorite books!
I have many reasons why I loved your book. the first thing that clicked in my mind was how much the characters grew on me. I actually felt like I was in the book. The words of description you used just came to life when you read them. Also, another thing I liked was Katrina's parts. When I read her parts it felt like I knew her and the sound of her voice just runs through my head.
The importance in The Paper Bag Christmas is that Christmas is not only about gifts, its about friendship and love of being around the people you care about and the people you love. Also, I noticed that it gives the meaning that you should be thankful for having many opportunities to live and not just take it for granted. The Paper Bag Christmas changed me for sure, I had no idea hat Christmas had way more behind the gifts. I truly did take what I read from The Paper Bag Christmas and shared it with the people I love this Christmas.
Mr. Milne, overall your book was one I would definitely recommend. I wouldn't mind reading it a second time. I for one know that I will be passing on the meaning of Christmas from your book and what I got out of your book.

Yours truly,
Marina Basta

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hello my name is Stella. My class has read your book The Paper Bag Christmas and it's so amazing. It's a great way to show the true meaning of Christmas and celebrating it with your family. It's a very sweet story and an entertaining one.
There are many things I liked in The Paper Bag Christmas. I liked how Mo meets so many new friends and discovers the true meaning of Christmas. Perhaps my most favorite character would be Katrina. I thought it was very kind that Lynn stood up for Katrina. The saddest part was when Katrina passed away.
This book taught a lot about being able to append time with family and serving others. The way it taught spending time with family as possible and spend it all to the fullest. It also taught trying to help others in need. People who can't do the stuff that many people can do and it's good to make them feel that they can if they try.
This is some of the things that I have to say about The Paper Bad Christmas. The book was wonderful and heart warming. That's why I enjoyed it.

Yours truly,
Stella Golden

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
Hello I am Juma Glynn. I liked the way you put quotes in front of every chapter.
In The Paper Bag Christmas I liked the part when the nurse let Madhu be a wise man. I also liked the part where they raced the gurneys.
I have changed because it is better knowing the meaning of christmas is a feeling not a gift. Your book is so important because I learned what the true meaning of christmas is.
Thank you for writing this book. I really enjoyed it.

Yours Truly,
Juma Glynn

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Cyrus Tabatabai and I'm a 7th grader who goes to AE Wright Middle School. Your book, The Paper Bag Christmas, was absolutely fantastic! The story really made a bunch of sense to me. It made me sad though when Katrina died.
Other reasons why I liked the book was that it was extremely touching and very sweet. Another reason is that the books that you make are one of my favorites, and this was one of them. How I have changed by reading your book is that I have become a more better and caring person and I care about my family much more. I also care about my awesome friends. From now on I am going to treat others the way they want to be treated.
Thank you for making this wonderful book; I am looking forward for more books by you.

Sincerely,
Cyrus Tabatabai

Genaa :) said...

Dear Mr.Milne,

Hello there. My name is Gena Ryan and I go to A E Wright Middle School in Calabasas. I am in 7th grade and I red you book The Paper Bag Christmas this month. It was superb. I am so glad I read it because if I hadn't, I wouldn't know the true meaning of Christmas. Even though I am Jewish.
I really enjoyed your book. I liked the fact that Santa was a big part in the book. I really enjoy Santa because Santa brings joy and happiness. I might be Jewish but Santa is a big part of my life, you know. I also liked the part where Katrina dies because that really made me feel sad and I think it brought out a lot of people's emotions out and reminded everyone of being thankful they don't have cancer.
I think I have definitely changed scince reading The Paper Bag Christmas. I definatley saw the value in family and friends and how they are always there for you like Mo was there for Katrina. I have definitely got more interested in charity work and I would love to go to a childrens hospital and volenteer one day.
I liked reading your book. I think I might read it every Christmas and I hope my teacher will read it to her classes every year too. Merry belated Christmas and Happy belated New Year.

Yours truly,
Gena Ryan :D

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
My name is Gabriel Acevedo,a seventh-grader from A.E.Wright Middle School and I really enjoyed your book called The Paper Bag Christmas.Your book was very touching to me and to my teacher Mrs.Kimball,It made her cry at some points of your book.This book was fantastic and I would read it again and would recommend it to anyone.

Some reasons why this book showed me so much was because it told what Christmas really was.I used to think that Christmas was all about the gifts and having fun.I recently just figured out that it is much more than that.It is really supposed to be to spend all the time with your family and spend more time with them then you usually do.It really shows people to value the time that you should have with your family because truthfully you will not have them forever.

Now,thanks to your fantastic book,I will always keep in mind that Christmas is a day that you should value spending time with your family.Whenever I get a present on Christmas I will remember that it is the that the people giving you the gifts are trying to only give you something that will make you happy.

Your book really touched and now I can walk away saying I really learned a lesson.Thank You.

Yours Truly,
Gabriel Acevedo

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne
Hello Mr. Milne my name is Sydnie. I'm a seventh grade student at A.E Wright Middle School, and my class and I just finished reading The Paper Bag Christmas. I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed your book and I look forward to reading some of your other books.
One of the reasons I liked The Paper Bag Christmas was all the questions you asked the reader that made me want to read more. One example was when Katrina and Mo were Gurney racing and fell down the stairs; it kept me wondering what was going to happen to them. Another reason why I liked your book was of all the detail you gave about the characters and their feelings. An example was wall the detail you put into Katrina's character because everyone in my class grew to love her throughout the book.
What I think the importance of your book is the true meaning of Christmas and friendship. Why I think this, is because of the lesson Dr. Ringle taught Mo and Aaron, and the friend ship Mo and Katrina had together. Also, I have changed in many ways after reading your book. One way i have changed is to be more grateful in life because some people like Katrina, Madhu, and Tim don't have it so great like I do.
Once again I really enjoyed reading The Paper Bag Christmas. I hope you continue to write more books because you are a very talented author and I would love to read more books by you. As you can see I have had a great time reading your book and I have learned many things from it.
Yours truly,
Sydnie

Shantelle said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hello, my name is Shantelle and I am a 7th grader of A E Wright Middle School. I read your book, The Paper Bag Christmas, recently. It was a very meaningful book. It taught me the true meaning of Christmas. I am Jewish, but the meaning is something everyone from different religions should know.

Something I really liked is how you showed that even though only one person and not plural could be harshly ill, it doesn't mean people shouldn't care. Another great point in the story is that you shouldn't judge people the way you see them the first time, you have to know them well enough to come to a final conclusion. I will be sure to consider reading this book when I am older and hope to find more meanings.

Since I have finished this book I started thinking more about other and I decided to go to a place with less fortunate people than me and give them some food and blankets. It was a great feeling seeing the wide grins that grew across their faces. I think that this book is a very important book that shows a great thing in life, loving and caring. Nothing can be better than the ones surrounding you are the people who you know love you. This book shows that without friends and family, your life isn't fully complete. They are the things that are most valuable in life, not money and gifts. When I help others I get this wonderful sensation of joy inside of me, and I am planning to volunteer for more things in my future.

Reading this book has forever changed my life. I will make sure I recommend this book to my friends and family and hope they get the same messages I got and more. I think this is a great class book and more schools should start reading this every Christmas. I wish you a Merry Christmas!

Sincerely,
Shantelle

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
My name is Andrew Friendship and i am thirteen years old. I have read your book The Paper Bag Christmas, and i thought it was a very good book
and had a great moral. It was very sad but also a but heartwarming. It proved a good point and there is not very many other books like it.

What i like in the book was how it shows that it doesn't take much to cheer a person up and that no toy can add up to the the joy of changing someones life. I also like how Mo tried so hard to include Katrina and make her feel like when she didn't have anyone else to do it for her.

Since reading this book I have changed by not being as selfish and being more caring and understanding of others. The importance of this book is to show people that their are people less fortunate as them and to not judge people by their looks and really get to know them. Family,friendship, and serving others are so important and show others that your caring and a good person.

that was one of my favorite books and i would recommend this book to anyone.

Sincerely,
Andrew Friendship

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Carly Shandler. I am a seventh-grader currently attending A.E. Wright Middle School. My seventh-grade Language Arts class just finished your incredible book, The Paper bag Christmas. Your book is the best book I have ever read in my life.

Every single thing in The Paper Bag Christmas evoked me, but if I had to choose two parts in particular I would choose when the boys asked what the sign ED.... meant, and how Katrina lived past that. Another one of my favorite parts is when we find out all Katrina wanted was a friend, and how she didn't believe that was possible and her wish came true.

Boy did your book change my life. I saw your book differently from others because I grew up with my mom having cancer, understanding a lot more changed my perspective. After reading this book I didn't need presents from the holiday. The truth is being healthy , safe, loved etc. is a present not everyone can have.A couple ways the book changed me is to talk to more people i don't know and make friends with them.

Mr. Milne boy do I have lots of respect for you. You must me a very special person to have come up with a book like this, you are such an amazing role model. Thank you so much.
Your Truly,
Carly Shandler

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne

My name is Nick and my class and i read your book. I thought it had a great story line, and i like how it kept my interest throughout every page. I told my grandparents a short summary about the story and they loved it for the same reasons I do. It really speaks to you and that you should always treat people the same way you want to be treated.
In the story I liked how Molar finds out how important it is to help people and to not be selfish especially on Christmas. I like how he and his brother find out the true meaning of Christmas and that it is not about the presents, it's about being with people you love and care about even if you don't like someone and be friends with everybody no matter what. An example is could be that Molar turns out to be great friends with everybody in the hospital but mainly on the fifth floor.
I know that from reading this book i have changed a lot in the same matter Molar did. I have begun to think about my family and friends more than ever. I now do thins with them almost everyday, even things as simple as going and getting mail or grocery shopping. I think the importance of this book would be to show how to care for others even if they don't care about you, the true meaning of Christmas and how it is about family and friends and caring about people but the only reason i think there is presents is because you are showing someone you care about them even if it means a small card, it doesn't matter.
I had a great time reading it and I will be reading it again, and I hope you will write more books like this because I like them.

sincerely,
Nick Chang-Dickel

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr Milne,
My name is Brandon Simanian, and i really enjoyed the book The Paper Bag Christmas. The book was very exciting and I asked Ms. Kimball almost every day if we could read on even though we only have two minutes left in class.
Two things i really enjoyed about your book is that it brought the tension up in me saying that I really wanted to know what would happen next. I also liked that in the end Mo is grown up and he tells the story of his first Christmas and tells about what he did in the hospital to his kids. I changed because this book told me that I should be thankful that I am healthy and to be happy on what you have. Also I learned that people in the hospital are in a lot of pain even though the doctors are doing there best. I also serve some people at the hospital by going door to door and saying hello to everybody and errands for the nurses and kids or adults that are staying in the hospital.

I really enjoyed your book
yours truly,
Brandon Simanian

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
I wanted to write to you in the New Year because we have another new begining and new goals to accomplish.
My name is Michael I am the oldest of four kids in our house. I have two one brother Daniel, a sister named Gaby, and another sister named Arielle. I am twelve years old but I am turning thirteen on March 26. I have two wonderful parents and three wonderful dogs. My favorite thing in the whole wide world is basketball, i have played since i was two and a half.
Some reasons i loved your book (The Paperbag Christmas) was because it involved many important things in life like family,friendship,and life itself which is very important. One of my favorite parts of the book was when Mo and Katrina had the gurney race because
he took a risk just to have Katrina be in the pageant.
The importance of your book is that it sends a message out which is the importance of family, friendship, and serving others. The way i will serve
others is do more charity work and be better behaved.

Yours truly,
Michael Hayon

Anonymous said...

Dear mr.milne,
my name is Kyle Ten-Napel I enjoyed reading the paper bag christmas. The book you wrote really makes you think about what you have and how basic things are so important. I still dont know if this is based on a true story
or not. I think you should do another book on the paper bag christmas except about your kids you have now I would read it. I hope to read your other books in the near future.
sincerly,
Kyle Ten-Napel

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,

Hello,my name is Isabelle Najera, and I like to read books. I've liked reading many books such as Twilight.I would like to read all three of your books.I'm sure that they are as good as the one I read in class, The Paper Bag Christmas.
What I liked about The Paper Bag Christmas is that the Characters actually came to life, and that I felt there feelings.The story really touched me with the happiness and sadness.I almost felt like crying when Katrina died.I think that your story is one of my favorites.What I also liked about the story is that Katrina got a friend, and the two boys didn't want toys anymore, but instead they got the true meaning of Christmas.What was also interesting is that there were some clues that Dr.Ringle was Santa.One clue was when he disapered into the hallway.
How I have changed after reading your book I learned not to be greedy and to always give and share.The importance to family and freindship is to love and give.

Sincerely,
Isabelle Najera

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

I am a student at A.E.Wright middle school. Our class read your book The PaperBag Christmas. I really enjoyed the book and thought it taught a very important lesson.
The reason I enjoyed the book was because it told the true meaning of Christmas and about helping those in need. Another reason I liked the book was because the story was very touching and made me feel good except when the Katrina died. I believe your book had a message
After I read the book, I changed by being more helpful by taking out the trash more often and helping with the dishes. I think your book helped me change to become a better person by making me appreciate more of the things I already have and not ask for so many materialistic things like ipods or toys.
To conclude, I enjoyed your book and thank you for giving me the inspiration to be more appreciative. I look forward to reading your other books on my own.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hello, I hope this letter reaches you well. My name is Kian Zartoshty. I am a seventh grader at A.E.Wright Middle School. We read your book The Paper Bag Christmas in Language Arts. I am not Christian, but I enjoyed your book because i think the spirit or Christmas is giving and being kind to each other. When I think about it everybody shares that.
One thing I likes in The Paper Bag Christmas was that even though Katrina died it was still a good ending at the end. Another thing I liked was Tim. Even though he was sick , he was almost always happy. For instance, for Christmas he got a pair of socks but he made the best out of it and played catch with Molar. The Paper Bag Christmas also taught me the true meaning of Christmas, family and friendship.
Since reading your book I think more about family and friends than gifts. I also think about my good health which is something i had never thought about before. The importance of your book to me material things aren't as important as good health, family and friends. The importance of family in this book is strong. Molar and Aaron always helped each other whenever they were nervous or needed help. Friendship and serving others tie together in some way. Like when Molar was trying to help Katrina, they started to bond slowly, until Molars accident. Then there bond became friendship.
I hope that you will make more books that are as good as The Paper Bag Christmas. Have you considered making this into a movie?
Yours truly,
Kian Zartoshty

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne

My name is Ryan Gautereaux. I am a seventh grade student at A E Wright Middle school. Mrs.Kimball,my teacher,and or class read The Paper Bag Christmas understand the true meaning.
One of my most absolute favorite parts of this book was when Katrina took off her paper bag,in front of everyone,to give the gift to baby Jesus right after the play had ended The paper bag was apart of her,and to take it off in front of everyone must have taken a lot of courage. Another one of my favorite parts of the book is when Katrina passes away but gives the gift of holiday joy by donating her liver to Madhu and,donates money for Franks brother to pay for the medical bill.She also gives Molar her most valuable thing her paper bag
The one thing that I will remember for the rest of my life from this book is that Christmas is not about presents,its about spending time with family, friends, and helping others. The Paper Bag Christmas has changed the way I look at thing. I now make friend everywhere I go, and try to think about the positive thing not the negative things
Im looking forward to reading your next thing

Sincerely,
Ryan Gautereaux

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Dylan Samantha Alet Messenger in Mrs.Kimball's class. Your book The Paper Bag Christmas is eye opening! I loved reading it!
I liked the facet that even though everyone picked on Katrina, the girl who played Vergin Marry(sorry but I forgot her name) stood up for Katrina's spot in the play. I also liked that Dr.Ringle had that mysterious character who fooled me many times into thing he was Santa!
Your book to me is important because it makes you think about people who are less fortunate than you.(I think lots of people have forgotten how good they have it.)Also friendship is important,when you have friends you can tell them stuff that you don't or can't tell your parents,like if you forgot your homework, or who you have a crush on.
I can't wait to read more of your books!

Yours truly,
Dylan Messenger

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Baylee, and I go to A.E. Wright Middle School. I am in Seventh grade and i recently finished your book, The Paper Bag Christmas. I really enjoyed it. You really showed me the true meaning of Christmas and how its not about the gifts, its about service, friendship, family, and the joy of having others.
A couple of things that i really loved about your book was that you really brought your characters to life. For example, it felt like Mo was there telling the story to you from his own perspective, and it was like you could picture hime talking to Katrina and the way she showed her emotions. Another thing is that I loved the story line. I enjoyed how you made the story pop right out of the book! It was so exciting that i didn't want the book to end.
After reading your book, I have changed so much with the way I look at life. It was so important to me to read your book because you got me thinking about the meaning of life and how to be thankful for it. I am going to be more appreciative of my family and always do my best in being nice to others.
Thank you so much for writing this book and giving me a chance to read it. I was really touched by this book, and now i feel more and more happy to do for others. Hope to read your next book soon!

Yours truly,
Baylee Blumenthal

Anonymous said...

HI, My name is Shoshana, And my class and I all read A Paper Bag Christmas.
I thought it was a very well written book, and I enjoyed reading it as well.It felt like you were actually there at the hospital with all the characters.It was funny, interesting and sad at times.
In your book I liked that we were able to see a lot of different sides of most of the characters, like Katrina had a harsh, mean side because she dealt with her sickness with anger but when you got to kno w her she was sweet, kind, and caring. I also like how Mudu was really excited to learn about Christmas and Christanity even though he was Hindu and he thought that Santa Claus would not visit him because of that.
What i have learned from The Paper Bag Christmas is that Sometimes people are scared to be friends or even friendly with people with cancer or other life threating diseases, and that leaves them lonely and especially in Katrina's case becuase she has no family left either. The people who are sick are just like us except for there disease, and we should comfort them, and help them, and be friends with them. The importance of Mr.Milne's book is to know that kids with cancer want friends, and yes most of them have families that love them very much, but everyone needs a friend, includng them
Thank you for a wonderful book, i have learned a lot from it.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Stephanie Alva. I am a student of Mrs. Kimball's, one of the winner from your Thanksgiving contest and i truly enjoyed reading your book, The Paper Bag Christmas. The Paper Bag Christmas was an amazing book. It helped me understand things a lot better.
There are many reasons why I like the Paper Bag Christmas. One of the many reasons is that it has a good meaning behind the story. The meaning behind the story is that friendship and family are the best gift of all and thats what really matters , not materialistic thing like toys and money. The materialistic thing come last compared to family and friends. Another reason is why I liked The Paper Bag Christmas is because it shows you don't have to be pretty to have friends, that doesnt matter. The only thing that matters is what's inside you. No one cares if your pretty or ugly.
Family and friends are very important. Family is important because they are the ones that you can count on and the ones that will always be there when you need them. They are the ones that help you with homework when you need help or when you need something they will help you. Thats what family is for. Friends are also important. Friends are people you can tell thing to and you know that they wont tell anyone. They also help you with thing things that maybe friends dont understand. Friend hang out with you during lunch or just whenever. Thats what friends are for.
The Paper Bag Christmas was a really good book and I hope to read more book by you.

Yours truly,
Stephanie Alva

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hello, my name is Quinn and I live in a great little community called Topanga in California. I love sports, video games, computer, music, TV, and playing music. I am an only child and have two loving parents, plus a dog.I go to a school called A.E Wright Middle School and there we just finished reading your first book, Paper Bag Christmas, and it was really, really good.

One thing I liked about your book was the story. The story was,just great and felt like my eyes were on the main characters head. It was warm and inviting. Another thing I liked about the were the characters. All the character were great, funny, and held a special place in the book. Everyone was unique. the all seemed to fit in the story snuggly.

I think I have changed a little since reading this book. I have donated a lot of clothes and toys to charity. I like to think how lucky I am and to think about the less fortunate. I have even donated money to help people in Congo.I learned everyone needs a friend, everyone needs love, and everyone needs to at least care.

Sincerely,
Quinn Williamson

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,

I am one of the many students who read The Paperbag Christmas. Which I must add is a good read. Especially the part where Mo and Katrina race with the gurneys.

The book itself was a good story, but in my opinion it had its finer points. For instance the scene when Mo is waiting with Aaron for Santa I felt like I was there with the two of them. Another part that I enjoyed was of course the part when Mo falls down and breaks Katrina's candycane the reason being is because see the emotion that Katrina shows after the incident.
Sine reading The Paperbag Christmas, I believe I've changed. The reason because your story gives the message to everyone that the true meaning of Christmas is to be grateful for what you have. The important symbol your book shows is that you can have everything you ever wanted by the things you never wanted.
I wish for you to have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Sincerely,
Christian Franco

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
My name is Shyanne Roberts. I got to A.E.Wright Middle School and I am twelve years old.
I loved your book, The PaperBag Christmas. one reason I really liked your book is because it was very heartwarming.It was a sweet book that showed love and the true meaning of Christmas. Another reason I really enjoyed your book is because it told a good, well thought out story, but had humor.
Your book was very inspirational and has really changed me. I red it a few weeks before Christmas, and when Christmas came, I didn't want presents. I had learned the true meaning of Christmas and I really just wanted to be with my family. I really would like to serve others like Mo and Aaron did. I think I am going to sign up for charity work.
Thank you for writing such a heartwarming, inspirational book.

Yours truly,
Shyanne Roberts

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
My name is Neda Tahmasbi and i read your book The Paper Bag Christmas with my seventh grade class. Your book is truly a heartwarming masterpiece.
One thing that i enjoyed very much was Katrina's character and her personality, the way she started out kind of cold and sharp with Molar, but then she melted and really showed him what a loving, caring, warmhearted person she was.Also,another thing i enjoyed about your book was the kind of hope, faith,and joy in Christmas.
Personally speaking the book has has moved me in so many ways, making me want to go and volunteer more and just really sit down with kids who are going through a really,rough, hard,scary times at this point in their lives when they shouldn't be. Your book is very inspiring to people everywhere; it changes their way of live, their emotions, and the way they look at things. We don't really realize the importance of family and friendship until we really start volunteering, helping other, and doing the little things in life that really count.
yours truly,
Neda Tahmasbi

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
My name is Trevor Kierstead your book changed my life. The Paper Bag Christmas was a great book.
The book actually tells the true meaning of Christmas. It also had a very interesting story. The book made a movie in my mind and it was in 3D and made me think I was Mo.
How I changed from the book was I want to help people that are needy and are as fortunate as me.Now I want to spend more time with the whole family. I now want to try gurney racing and I know the true meaning of Christmas.
Thank for spreading the true meaning of Christmas through the book.
Your friend
Trevor Kierstead

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hi, my name is Kevin Goldfinger, and I read your book the Paper Bag Christmas. I thought that your book was a really good book and had a very good moral.
In the book I liked how it wasn't just about having Christmas time and presents but that you put the setting in a hospital where there are kids who never got to have a Christmas like that. Another thing I liked about the book was the two kid characters that you chose were really nice and caring. the "Dr. Ringle" I thought was a great idea to work with the kids because he was handicapped and knows what it is like to not have a fun filled Christmas with family and friends and presents.
Since I read your book, I have been inspired to help others because when I realized that maybe I don't get anything I ask for i'm still really lucky because I saw that some kids who have cancer or a bad illness, their home is in the hospital. So I think after seeing that big picture I will be more willing to to maybe join a charity or volunteer at a hospital. I think the importance of this book is that when maybe people want to make fun of someone because they are a little bit different from everybody else, they will actually think twice about it before they do it because of how people made fun of Katrina just because she had a bag over her head.
I really liked your book and I think that it will actually make a difference to some people wen they do things that are wrong.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Emma Gabay and I'm a 7th grader at A.E.Wright Middle School. The Paper Bag Christmas was our most recent reading assignment. I found the novel to be very captivating and emotional.
Looking at the cover, I had originally thought that it was going to be a typical Christmas story. I was pleasantly surprised. This story was about Molar's challenge befriending Katrina who is embarrassed by her scarred face. Later on Molar finds the true meaning of Christmas, while Katrina learns that she is more beautiful than she had imagined. I was taken in by the goodness of the characters and the way they stood up for each other.
Since reading this book I've realized the importance of my family and friends in my life. Friends are like living in a sunny day, they bring sunrise. Any size or shape, friends are always there for you. As years go by, I get more involved in charities all around the world. Your book has opened my eyes to what I really should be paying more attention to. Reading the line, "All I want for Christmas is a friend," I understood what the Paper Bag Christmas was all about.
My class was very fortunate to read your book. It was a mind blowing and page turning novel that I would suggest anyone to read. I really hope you make a book following it. To conclude, thank you for your time.

Yours truly,
Emma Gabay

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
My name is Max Horland. I loved your book,it was so heart felt.The Paper Bag Christmas tore me apart in so many good ways.
How could someone make such a good book? Katrina brought everyone closer to their heart. Also, Madhu was a great, funny character who kept the story going. Another thing about the Paper Bag Christmas is that it made me open up to see that christmas isn't all about the presents.
Since I have read your book i have changed. one way i have changed was that you shouldn't be selfish, so I am not. The importance of your book, I think, was to let people know what a real christmas should be like.Family and friendship is tremendously important because you need love and happiness Now how I am going to serve others is by caring for them.
I am so happy I read your book, the Paper Bag Christmas. Can't wait to read your new book coming out.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Chase Moody from Mrs. Kimball's seventh-grade class at A. E. Wright Middle School. We read your book, The Paper Bag Christmas in class, and I thought it was one of the most beautiful books I've ever read. The story was wonderful, and in some parts, it was funny, but the end was the saddest, most moving, and probably the best part. I really enjoyed the epilogue, though, I thought it tied nicely into the story
One reason I loved your book was the deep meaning found in its pages. Another reason is the surprises found on every page and that every character changed emotionally by the end of the book. It was amazing and made me appreciate the true meaning of Christmas. The Paper Bag Christmas expressed the importance of family and friends. Friends are there to build you and guide you along, and family hangs back to catch you if you fall. This book is also about choosing love and serving others over presents and gifts.
The Paper Bag Christmas was truly an amazing book, and I can't wait for your next one. I hope you had a wonderful holiday and a great new year.

Sincerely,
Chase Moody

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne

Hello, my name is David Bura. The Paper Bag Christmas was an extremely great book. It brought my attention on every chapter.
The Paper Bag Christmas was also a very dramatic book which is good in my opinion. I think it tells people what Christmas is all about. It also tells what people go through in their life and still manage it well.
Reading this book has taught me certain things. While reading The Paper Bag Christmas I learned what Christmas is all about. It has also told me that there are very ill people in this world that still have fun celebrating Christmas with their family how they look or what they have.
The Paper Bag Christmas was a fantastic book and I'm looking forward to reading your next book


yours truly,
David bura

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hi my name is Jonathan Bura and i liked your book, The Paper Bag Christmas. Every I read from this book got better and better.
What i liked about this book is that it got my attention every chapter. Another reason why i like this book is because it has a message and because it is a holiday themed book. I also like that it tells people what the true meaning of Christmas is and to give more then you receive.
This book taught me to always like people for who they are inside not outside. I have changed after reading this book by giving presents and not worry about getting presents. I think it is important for people to be with their families and to always server others. i will serve others by giving my old things to charity and to feed the hungry.
I liked reading The Paper Bag Christmas, and i hope you keep making good books.

Yours truly,
Jonathan Bura

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hi, I'm Mitchell Rosenberg, and I loved The Paper Bag Christmas so much!

Two reasons why I liked The Paper Bag Christmas is because it was a very touching and hopeful story and it had a main character that I could really relate to. The story was touching and hopeful because it made you realize what was really important about Christmas. It's easy to forget that Christmas and the holidays aren't just about presents but it's really about being together with family and friends. This story really touches your heart.

Over this Christmas break I really came to appreciate family even more. My oldest sister has been away at college and my other sister will be leaving for college next year. Our whole family, me, my parents, my brother, and my two sisters were all together in Utah. We've spent lots of Christmases together in Utah before, but this was different. Most years there's been lots of bickering and arguing. This year, we laughed so much and I really felt like we enjoyed being together more. I guess we're all growing up and realized the things we fought over aren't important. What is important is being together, skiing, talking, and laughing. I also had a friend come visit me there, and it made me feel really good to have such a good friend. i have always cared a lot about helping other people. When I saw a lady fall on the ski slope, I stopped and must have taken about 15 minutes to help her get up and get her skis back on. Even though it was really cold and I knew people were waiting for me, it felt really good to help her to get back on her feet. I know that part of my life will always be helping other people. It is one of the things I like doing best and I will find a way to always help. I always feel sorry for people--if they're homeless and hungry or if they're voted out on a reality show. It's just part of me to want to help them.

The idea of family and friends and helping people isn't a new idea at all. Everyone knows it's important. But it's nice to be reminded and that's what's great about this book--it reminds us of what's really important.

Yours truly,
Mitchell Rosenberg

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne
I read the Paper Bag Christmas and thought it was a terrific book. The Paper Bag Christmas made me tear up when Katrina took off her Paper Bag
to show everyone what she was going through.
When I read The Paper Bag Christmas it made me sad at the end when Katrina died. The Paper Bag Christmas was a good book of how you showed emotions, and how u made the reader feel like there in the book rehearsing with Katrina with her part as an Angel.
I think that I am going to be with my family as much as I can.
Sincerely your friend,
Mohammad D. farahani

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne
i really enjoyed reading your book with my class.My name is Chris
I attend A.E.Wright Middle school.My favorite part of this book was when they had the gurney race with Molar and Katrina
During the Katrina had a paper bag over her head during the race after the race molar had broken his arm and katrina felt bad for molar.I started to laugh when madhu almost started to scream so he can get another wise men in the pagent every body at that floor heard madhu speaking louder and louder so everybody went to the door and was wondering what nurse wimble finally she said yes.
i wondered why did katrina had to die because she could've had the money for surgey I felt bad that molar had to lose a friend rather than helping her.
i changed by reading this book that is alot of people need cure for sicknesses than anything in the world .I should always help somebody in need for some surgerys.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hi, my name is Samantha Kin and I really enjoyed reading The Paper Bag Christmas with my class. I think my classmates and I recognize the true meaning of Christmas now that we have read your meaningful story.
One reason why I liked The Paper Bag Christmas is because it had a great lesson that people can learn from and relate to. There were actually many lessons taught in the book, but the one I can relate to the most is to be grateful for the things that you already have, such as love, happiness, health and joy. Another reason why I liked your book because the story plot was simple and easy to follow. I loved your book because I always wanted to continue reading to find out what would happen next with the characters.
I personally think that I have changed since reading the book because now I truly know the meaning of Christmas, how everyone deserves to have at least one friend, and how everyone deserves to be loved. The importance of your book was to teach people about the true meaning of Christmas, which is that it is not about the gifts, it's about being with family, friends, and the people you love and being grateful for the things you have and others may not, such as less fortunate people who don't have a family, a home, or food. I think the message is that some people just want a friend and they want to know that someone cares for them.
Thank you for teaching us these valuable lessons and I hope you continue to write other great books. Your book really affected my life and made me feel much more grateful.

Yours truly,
Samantha Kin

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hi my name is Anthony I read The Paper Bag Chritsmas, and think it was a good book.I read The Paper Bag Chritsmas and I though it was a good .It was a good ending. The part I didn't was when Katrina dies. when I read The Paper Bag Chritsmas it was wonderful at the beganing but when it got to the ending it was sad. I thing I learned the true meanig of chritsmas I also leanred that your healthy.
Your truly
Anthony Rodriguez

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
I am a 7th grade student who attends A.E.Wright Middle School. My class members and I have had the honor of reading your book, The Paper Bag Christmas. The Paper Bag Christmas was a book i really enjoyed reading. Mo, Aaron, and all the rest of the characters seemed so real , like it wasn't even made up.
There are multiple reasons why i enjoyed reading this book. One reason is I love Christmas and can never seem to understand the true meaning of it, and your book really helped me understand completely. Something else I liked was the lessons that Mo learns through the book. He learns that the greatest gift of all is the gift of life, or the gift of giving not receiving.
Noticing that other people have it way worse than me, and that I should be greatful for what I have, is a way I've changed since reading The Paper Bag Christmas. I think the importance of family is that you always have someone to go to. Also that your family will love you no matter what, and you'll love your family no matter what.
The Paper Bag Christmas is a book I highly recomend for a lot og schools and just people in general. Thank you for writing this story to show people around the world many good lessons and the true meaning of Christmas.
Yours truly,
Mariah Kimbrough

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Cherich Salazar, and I enjoyed The Paper Bag Christmas very much.

A few reasons why I loved the book was that I enjoyed how you could describe the emotion and how the story line was so meaningful. I also liked the character's personalities and their traits.

I have definitely changed since reading your book by wanting to help the less fortunate. I have always donated money to St.Jude's Children's Hospital,as well as clothes to homeless,and glasses to the people in Africa who can't afford them.

That is by far one of my favorite books by Kevin A. Milne or you.

Yours Truly,

Cherich Salazar

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,

Hi my name is Adam. I thought the Paper Bag Christmas was a very good book. It was a good book because you used a lot of detail and other things to make this book good.

One of the two things I like about the Paper Bag Christmas is that you used a lot of detail to describe things, it made it clear on what we were reading about. When you were describing Mo, I could really picture what he looked like. Another thing I really liked about the Paper Bag Christmas is that you put a lot of expression in your writing. I could really feel the tension.
Since I have read your book, I have changed by helping people who are in need of help. When I see a homeless person on the streets by giving them food every time I see a person in need. Also the importance of family. I have learned that family is very important and, to always have family.

You know I really enjoyed reading you book Paper Bag Christmas. It was really good. I hope to read another one of your books.

yours truly,
Adam

Anonymous said...

dear Mr. Milne,
Hello! My name is JOntelle Cabral. I really enjoyed your book The Paper Bag Christmas. I cant wait to read all of your other books. It would be a real pleasure.It was genius and really opened my eyes.
One reason why i loved Thepaper Bag Christmas is that it was not only abot Christmas, but it was about family, friends, and what was really going on in the world.It also taught me about me about friendship and part of the bible. I also really liked how molar and his brother changed throughout the book. They were a little selfish in the beginning but they learned how to give and what was really important.
I have changed so much nowthat ihave read your book such as I didnt really ask for anythin during Christmas and now that i see or hear about someone with cancer Im actally going to know what they are going throught a little better. The book youhave written was very important because it will open peoples eyes just like it did to me. Family, friends, and serving others is also very important. most kids and I at my school would be nothing with out their family and friends. Also some people need to realize that it is not all about them and that every once in a while forget about themself and think of the less fortuate. After you do that, put that thought into an action. I will help th less fortunate by helping out at local charities and donate my old cloths and bye toys for kids in the hospital.
Thank you so much for wrigting this book and changing the way i see many things

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne

My name is Joseph Baena ,and I wanted to express how much i liked The paper bag Christmas book you wrote. i would like to start by saying that the suspense leered me into reading more and more of your book. i think that my class mates also enjoyed it too. the comedy you added into the story really gave it a boost in the way we all looked into the story. you made the characters so realistic that i thought that i was in the story with everyone.
i also have more reasons why i like this book and how it inspired me. one of the books inspiring moments was when timothy told mo that he shouldn't stop believing in what he wants to believe in just because everyone els thinks different. katrina also inspired me when she told mo not to to give anything up as long as you believe in yourself befor she passed away.
I hope you had a merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Yours truly
joseph baena

Anonymous said...

dear Mr.Milne,

My name is Emily Katz (meow);I'm a seventh grader who just adored The Paper Bag Christmas.It was just suck a beatiful story,and i loved it till the end.I did wish Katrina dident die, but it made out for a very sweet and heart touching ending.
I liked Katrina the most; because of her I will never look at a paper bag the same ever again.The story felt so real like it was actually hapening as we read it out loud.To tell the truth, I secretly would read ahead whene some one would read painfully slow for me,or i just wanted to know what hapend next.Well call me guilty,because that probely means i skiped ahead for more than half the story.That's how much i loved youer book
Youer book is very important, because most children these days dont understand the real meaning of christmas.they think its all about toys.I have tried to teack my littel sis this but she wont listen . I have tried to show her its about youer family and good will but she wont take a word I say.WEll maby she will find out some day.I have felt this way ever since I found out how seriouse my mom's illness was.ever since I have asked god to help her feel better.You see she has a ilness with her lupus where her immune system instead of protecting her body it atckes it.So she is always sick.THe illness is one she will have her whole life so all i can do is wish for her feel a littel better.that mean because instead of helping her it makes her more weak (im lucky because it atacks her kideny wich you can replace)so she gets sick easly.if she caght a seriouse illness like namonya she could die.Well i gess thats a good reason to cherish what you have, befor its gone.Also every summer i volenter to colect mont for west vally animal shelter.I love animal so when im older im gonna open my own shelter for all pets no kill, and im even gonne go to places like china,japan, and mexico to colect pets on the street to tak beck home.Well hope you have a merry christmas and a happy new year.
youer reader,
Emily Katz (meow)

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hi my name is Ashlynn Sanchez and I am a seventh grader at A.E Wright Middle School, and i read your book The Paper Bag Christmas. That book had to be one of my favorite book I have ever read. I think the reason why I like the book Paper Bag Christmas is that it has love, friendship, and happiness.
The Paper Bag Christmas has love it from how Mo, Dr. Ringle, and some kids in the hospital are very sad when Katrina dies. I also think that Katrina her self learns to love herself and everyone else, like when she gives her will to the janitor, that has to work at the hospital to pay his younger brothers hospital bills. The thing I also like very much is how you put friendship in the book. When Katrina gives her liver to Madhu, that is a big part of friendship.
I think the importance of your book is not to judge a person on how they look, it is the inside that really matters. The book has changed me in many ways, one, to love my family and friends more, two, to try to be more greatful for the things in my life, and last, to be more nice to others.
This was a really amazing book, and I hope you make a Paper Bag Christmas 2.
your friend,
Ashlynn Sanchez

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Aren Barnes and I am in the seventh-grade at A.E.Wright Middle School. During the past week my language arts class has been reading your amazing book, The Paper Bag Christmas! My favorite part in the book was when Molar told Katrina that she was beautiful, and that she didn't need to ware the paper bag. I think that I like that part because I hate the idea of anyone being teased because of the way they look. It only matters what you are on the inside, not the outside.
While reading The Paper Bag Christmas I learned that the best gift of all is to help others. Even though helping others isn't a shiny new bike or a stack of presents, I think that every kid in the world should experience having a real friend like Katrina. Another part of the book that I admired was when Molar went sleuthing with Timothy. I really admired Molar because even though he was convinced that Dr. Ringle wasn't Santa Clause, he didn;t spoil Tim's fun. Only a true friend would care enough about a person to not spoil their happiness. The last best part of your amazing book was when Katrina passed away. I think that it was time for her to go because she was all alone, ahe was in pain, and she got her Christmas present. Katrina was a sweet girl, because even though she kept to herself. Katrina was by far the wisest character in the book because instead of leaving the world exactly the same, she gave back to people.
Mr. Milne, because of your book I think that I really understand what Christmas should really feel like. It should make you feel like you have really accomplished something, helping other people. Every kid loves waking up on Christmas and seeing tons of presents under the tree, but we don't need them. My health seems a lot more valuable then presents.
I enjoyed The Paper Bag Christmas so much that I am recommending the book to my family. I hope that you will write a sequel for the book because I will definitely read it. I hope that you have a great holiday season.
Satisfied Reader,
Aren Barnes

Anonymous said...

Hello, my name is Blake DeBenedictis and I am from California. I really enjoyed your book The Paper Bag Christmas.
Here are some reasons why I loved the Paper Bag Christmas. to start, it was a touching story because of the fact Katrina gave her life to Madhu. It made me shed some tears. the sweet part of it was that mo and learned the true meaning of Christmas. For example, when they helped the kids with medical needs to give them the best
Christmas and for some their first true Christmas.

I have changed from this book because it's not all about presents, Christmas cookies, and lights; its about spending time with your family and friends. Also giving to others that don't have as much food or clothes as you do. Most importantly be thankful for what you have such as toys, a family, and being healthy and alive. I serve others by recycling bottles and cans. The money we raise is donated to City of Hope and St. Jude's hospital for kids that are in bad medical conditions. Also my family and I give toys for "Toys for Tots" foundation. My family, in addition, gives our clothes to "Goodwill" and "Battered Women" society.
I hope you have Happy Holidays and a very Happy New Year

Yours Truly,
Blake DeBenedicits

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne

My name is Jordan Cherkes, and I loved your book.I especially liked the message it conveyed.

I liked how your book explained how the spirit of Christmas isn't material possessions, it's about celebrating the joy of the season,and living life as well as you can. I also liked the great amount of detail used to describe everything Mo sees and experiences.

Since I read your book, I have focused less on presents, and more on spending time with my family and pets. Rather then spending the holiday system playing with the presents I have gotten, I spend my time with my dad whenever I get the chance.

Thank you for writing the book, it was awesome.

Yours Truly,

Jordan Cherkes

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Alex, and I attend Arthur E Wright Middle School. The Paper Bag Christmas was probably the best book I've ever read and I will cherish the message in my heart forever.
There are many reasons why I liked The Paper Bag Christmas, but the first reason is that the message was very heartwarming. The second reason is because at the end of every chapter there was a great cliffhanger.
I have changed after reading this book because now I know that Christmas is not about getting presents, it's about being nice and helping others. The importance of this book is to give people that message.
I think you should make a sequel because the book was amazing.
Sincerely,
Alex

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Nathan, and I absoloutely adored your book. I am in middle school, and my class has just finished reading The Paper Bag Christmas. After reading it, it is now in my top five favorite books that I have read.
The book was amazing. It really shows what a gift is. It shows how the best gift of all is not the biggest nor the largest, but the one that comes out of the goodness of your heart. The ending was outstanding. I loved how Katrina paid off Frank's brother's bill, and how she donated her liver to Madhu. It was a very nice thing of her to do that. Also, I was shocked and amazed at the ending when Katrina gave Mo her paper bag and how every year, Mo puts it on the top of his Christmas tree.
Next, I would like to say, that after reading the book, my thoughts on gifts has really changed. I have realized to be thankful for things like an arm and a leg. Also, I have realized the importance of friendship. Friendship is a bond between two people that will always be there for each other no matter what. Friendships like that are hard to find these days.
Lastly, I would like to say that your book was so amazing, that I can't even find enough words to describe it. Hopefully it has changed the way people think. I know it has changed the way I think.
Your fan,

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hi, this is Justin Chi from A.E.Wright Middle School wanting to tell you that your book was one of the best books I've read this year. One reason I loved this book was because the book had meaning to it. The meaning I got out of The Paper Bag Christmas was to not think that Christmas is not all about gifts but rather to help people and give them gifts.

There are many reasons why The Paper Bag Christmas was one of the best books I've read this year, but one reason was that it had meaning unlike other fictional stories. Another reason is that the story line and the characters are so interesting and makes me just want to keep on reading.

The Paper Bag Christmas changed how I act because it makes me want to help the people in need instead of asking for allowance when people don't even have money to support their lives. The book has also taught me to not get so fed up in materialistic things but rather to help others and give them the stuff we have and don't use. Your book worked because at the end of every chapter, there was a question in my mind and that question bugged me and made me want to keep on reading. I also loved the quotes in the beginning of the chapter.


Yours truly,
Justin Chi

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,

My name is Rohan Dod I am an honor student at A.E. Wright Middle School in Calabasas,California.Your book,The Paper Bag Christmas is an excellent example of the greatness of quality rather than quantity.This charming story has a wonderful message to make the reader understand the true meaning of Christmas.
The Paper Bag Christmas has a lot of wonderful reasons to be read and read again.I like the message you gave to readers.It helps them find "everything they never wanted for Christmas."Also,I loved how you gave everyone the true meaning of Christmas.
Reading this book made me change my thoughts about Christmas.I am now thinking to serve others and give more.Your book is really important to show the true meaning of Christmas.You should always serve others and befriend everyone,regardless of how they look or act.
The Paper Bag Christmas is a heartwarming story and must be read by everyone.It is a great book and shows the true meaning of Christmas.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hello,Mr. Milne,my name is Nima Bencohen.I'm a big fan of The Paper Bag Christmas.

One of the many reasons why I loved The Paper Bag Christmas was the way you described the book;it made me picture the scene every time. I could imagine when Molar fell off the gurney and how the pain was. Another reason I loved the book was because it seemed like it wasn't made up. I felt as if it was based on real life events and a little fiction was added.

At first,before I read the book,I was very materialistic. Now after reading,I feel like I don't need to think of the new technology that is coming up. I feel like instead of receiving I should be the one giving now. I think without the book most people will still be materialistic. It shows how being compassionate to others can change someone's life. Family can also be a huge influence throughout some one else's life it can make a difference also and example is that Katrina's grandfather made her not believe in her vanity but after he passed away she began to care. Serving others can also make a difference such as giving someone a smile can make their day.

Thank you for writing this book. It has changed my life and soon the other friends and family that I will tell about this book

Your fan,
Nima Bencohen

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne
My name is Cameron Atwater, and The Paper Bag Christmas was one of the best books I've ever read. It taught me so many lessons about life in general, and that you shouldn't want what you don't need.
If the world never learned to help others, we would never feel that warm, tingly feeling when you put a smile on someone's face. This book taught me to love what I have, and to help out others in need. I wish everyone was more like Mo, someone that forgot about all the presents of the holiday, and chose this time to be helpful, rather than materialistic. The Paper Bag Christmas also taught me that no matter what you look like or where you come from it doesn't matter because in our hearts, we are all the same.
This book has changed me in so many different ways. After being spoiled with presents on Christmas day, I decided to go through my room and donate old clothes, books, furniture, toys, and bags that I wouldn't need anymore. Not only did I just do a MAJOR cleaning of my room, it also assured me that I would be helping people out less fortunate than I. My dad always tells me, "You know, some people out there don't even get birthday parties, or food, or nice clothes, or a home like you do, so don't be wasteful." Before I read this book, I just thought that I shouldn't be wasting money, but now I know that he really meant that I should be grateful for the life I have in general. Over winter break, my family also decided to spend time in Utah with my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and all eighteen of my cousins. Although it seemed extremely crowded and the cousins were fighting on and off, it was nice to be together with the family and to hear the adults laughing and sharing stories. Family is very important and they should always come before presents.
Thank you for writing such a wonderful book with such great meaning. It was definitely worth reading, and I've changed immensely since reading it. Thanks again! :)

Sincerely,
Cameron

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Nikki Mobini. I just finished your book The Paper Bag Christmas and thought it was very inspiring. It really grasped the true meaning of Christmas.
One of the many reasons I enjoyed The Paper Bag Christmas was because of the transition of Mo and Aaron's thoughts on Christmas. I liked how they got to see how the less fortunate got to spend their Christmas and started being a little more thankful for not only things they had like food, shelter, and clothing, but also their health. Another thing I liked about your book was how you emphasized the importance of friendship and how it can change some people's lives.
I have also changed while reading your book. I now realize that while I'm here enjoying all the nice things I am so lucky to have in life, there are some people out there who don't have goos health and are not able to go home and spend time with their friends and family. The importance of friends and family was also apparent in your book because it proves that when you have someone who you know is there for you, it really boosts your self confidence.
In conclusion, I think your book showed that the holiday season is not only about getting gifts, but also giving, not only gifts, but friendship too, because it can really affect people's lives.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hi, Mr. Milne, my name is Caitlin and i thoroughly enjoyed your book, The Paper Bag Christmas. The combination of sadness, joy and the true meaning of Christmas made the book a delight to read. I thank you for teaching that.
You are an excellent writer and I would love to read more of your books. I'm so glad that my teacher picked this book to read over the holidays. Some people lose the true essence of Christmas. The presents shouldn't matter as much as being with your family or appreciating that you do get these kinds of gifts. I think you explained that some kids are not as lucky as the kids in my school, let alone class. I have to admit I was one of those kinds who really loved getting those presents but as I get older and I mature, I assure you they become less important. Thank you again for teaching me this wonderful lesson. One other thing I liked about your book was the clever way you wrote it. Dropping little hints about Dr. Ringle being Santa Claus was a way for us to really get into the book and read between the lines. Even though some of the hints were a little more obvious than others, it was fun to find them.
I will take many things from reading this book. One of which is giving to those in need. I have thought about giving some of my time to a children's hospital to give help wherever is needed. I do get very emotional thinking of the kids that don't have much time left or that are not as fortunate as i may be. I want to meet a Katrina so I could change her life just like Mo did for Katrina. I also will take away the appreciation for having such caring and giving family and friends. I feel like this book will do a lot for kids everywhere, just like it did for me.
The emotions that came out of me from reading this book were a surprise. I laughed and smiled at your descriptive writing but I also shed a tear at the end of the book. Reading those few words really hit me hard and for the third time, I thank you for teaching me many things from your book, The Paper Bag Christmas.

Yours Truly,

Caitlin

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne

My name is Maya and I just concluded reading your incredibly moving story The Paper Bag Christmas, which I happened to really appreciate after finishing.
First off, one thing about your book that I really liked was the cliffhangers after every chapter. Each one created a lot of suspense that made the book that much more enjoyable. Also, another thing I really enjoyed about your book was how you gradually, not instantly, made a connection between Mo and Katrina. Every friendship has to start before it grows, and I really liked being able to read about their friendship throughout the majority of the book. Lastly, I really took pleasure in how you were so descriptive and vivid in every bit of the book. I felt as if I was in all scenes and I was an actual character in the story.
After reading this wonderful book, I feel like I honestly changed. I learned to always be grateful for what you have and not to strive for the materialistic things, but rather things that actually do matter. This book is very important for others to read because one can actually get something out of this book, not just the satisfaction of reading a book, but a warm feeling in your heart that is irreplaceable.
To conclude, I want to thank you for one of the few books that actually moved me and made me want to change myself to become a better person.

Sincerely,
Maya Peress

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Reading you book, A Paper Bag Christmas, has been a pleasure, for it truly widened my knowledge of the genuine value of Christmas. My name is Vera and I've read many books, but something about your novel appeared to be especially heartwarming.
What really made the book for me is the reality in your writing. I loved how your characters corresponded with modern children, acting as greedy as kids do today. In my opinion, everyone should read this book whether they are ancient or child-like, for people need to be reminded to love, care, and desire things that really matter, not like video games and such. You cleverly sent a very deep message to people everywhere through a fantastic book, and I admire your ideas. Not to mention, I was quite fond of the Christmas spirit that seemed to never die out until the end, and how you continuously kept the reader questioning whether Dr. Ringle really was Santa Claus after he mysteriously disappeared from the hallway.
Ever since i finished the book, I'm reminded to never judge someone by how they look, since it really only matters what's inside of them, as Katrina's character clearly proved. Friendship is really all that matter and it is now evident how friends and family effect our lives. People need eachother to love and encourage just like Mo did with Katrina. She was alone and helpless when her grandfather died and Mo changed her so much that she eventually took away the only thing that was holding her back in the end ,the paper bag.
Having a good moral is what makes a great book, and you audibly accomplished that.

Yours truly,
Vera Weber

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Alex, and I attend Arthur E Wright Middle School. The Paper Bag Christmas was probably the best book I've ever read and I will cherish the message in my heart forever.
There are many reasons why I liked The Paper Bag Christmas, but the first reason is that the message was very heartwarming. The second reason is because at the end of every chapter there was a great cliffhanger.
I have changed after reading this book because now I know that Christmas is not about getting presents, it's about being nice and helping others. The importance of this book is to give people that message.
I think you should make a sequel because the book was amazing.
Sincerely,
Alex Resnick

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hi, I'm Lauren Hsuan and I enjoyed your book, The Paper Bag Christmas. I even had my mom read it! (She loved it too).

Although your book had many amazing qualities, I really liked two things. First, I loved how you put the true meaning of Christmas in a story that could actually happen. Second, I liked how you didn't include Dr. Ringle in the main learning part of the story, so that it felt like Mo and Aaron really learned the true meaning of Christmas on their own.

I have really changed since reading your book. After I read how some people really do suffer, even during the holiday season, I have given more thougt to how i can help. Now whenever I pass the Salvation Army collection boxes, I never pass it without contributing. I have also have talked to my mom and we are now sending in an application for joining the National National Charity League (NCL) I also enjoyed how you put the importance of friendship into a very thoughtful message at the end when Katrina tells Mo the one and only thing she wanted for Christmas was a friend.

Again, I really enjoyed reading your book, and look forward to maybe reading more of your books soon.

Sincerely,
Lauren Hsuan

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Aynsley Lemon and I am in the seventh grade at A.E. Wright Middle School in Calabasas, CA, located in the San Fernando Valley. I recenty finished reading your book The Paper Bag Christmas. I found it very interesting, mainly because of all the different emotions you gave the characters.
There were many great parts in The Paper Bag Christmas, but my favorite were parts I could imagine actually happening and the parts that made me feel terrible or amazed at the character's actions. Those parts were when Mo and Dr. Ringle visited Katrina and how she was dressed as a candy cane. I liked that part because you could tell Katrina worked hard on figuring out what to dress up as, it probably hurt her feelings when Mo didn't guess what she was at first. The other part I liked was when Lynn stood up for Katrina when she wanted to be one of the singing angels in the play. It was so sweet of her to do that because no one asked her to, she just felt bad about Katrina always being treated so poorly and she wanted to put an end to it.
Since reading The Paper Bad Christmas, I've become more appreciative of everything I have that other people might not, like how I spent my winter vacation in Texas with my family. I knew I was really lucky to have them. It's great to give whatever you can even if it's as simple as a smile because for some people, just a smile makes their day better. Also, giving can make you feel amazing to know that you helped someone. The Paper Bag Christmas is such an important book because it shows you should really be grateful for many things, like just living. Some people fight for their lives, like children in hospitals and, in the book, like Madhu and Katrina.
Thank you so much for writing The Paper Bag Christmas, I think this book helps people realize how great life can be if you reach out to others and try to make a difference.
Yours Truly,
Aynsley Lemon

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hello, I'm Madeleine from California, and I was amazingly touched when I read your heartwarming novel, The Paper Bag Christmas.
There are countless reasons why I loved your book, however, to avoid making this letter too lengthy, I can only list a few. One reason is because of the variety of believable and memorable characters. Each and every character was unique and had his or her own way of appealing to the reader. There was persuasive Madhu, grumpy Nurse Wimble, outgoing Tim, brave Karina, and of course, loyal Mo. I believe that the various characters that you provided made the book the masterpiece it is. Not only that, I loved how every chapter ended with a cliffhanger, leaving me bombarded with questions. Each time one chapter ended, I wanted to read another, however, since my class was reading it together, that wasn't allowed. In my opinion, the cliffhangers in your book made the reading adventure much more worthwhile and exciting to be part of. Nevertheless, I was also extremely impressed by he massive amounts of dialogue included in The Paper Bag Christmas. The dialogue added character and drama to the various scenes and even added a touch of comedy every once in a while. Without a doubt, the dialogue in your book kept me a wake and alert throughout the pages.
After reading your bittersweet novel, I believe I have changed quite a lot. I am now much more informed of the true meaning of Christmas: to serve others and to bring out the goodness in our heart to help those in need. In addition, I am now more alert that presents shouldn't flood my mind when I think about Christmas. Instead, I should be thinking more about being of help to others, spending time with family and friends, and being full of Christmas spirit. To add on, there are also many reasons why The Paper Bag Christmas is important. One reason is that it teaches us a a sole lesson in life: that Christmas isn't just about presents, but about serving others through friendship and service. Also, this book shows us that one thing that binds us all together, despite our differences, is Christmas spirit. Equally important, it shows us that being beautiful doesn't always mean physical beauty- what really counts is inner beauty: the beeauty of your heart, like Katrina discovered later in the book. After reading The Paper Bag Christmas, I hope to serve others by assisting my family more if they are in need of help and to help my younger brother more in his homework and other daily tasks.
The Paper Bag Christmas has really earned a special place in my heart. Thank you for writing such a n inspirational story full of family love, friendship, and Christmas spirit.

Sincerely,
Madeleine

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne, My name is Max and I attend A.E.Wright Middle School. My Language Arts teacher, Kristy Kimball, had assigned us to read your book, The Paper Bag Christmas. I enjoyed it very much and hope that you will produce more heart-warming books like this one. I had a very good time reading The Paper Bag Christmas. I enjoyed The Paper Bag Christmas because of its thorough details provided for each of the characters. As I played the character "Dr. Ringle" in our class reading, I began to see that each character has a true personality and unique reaction to the events happening in the book. I truly enjoyed the thoroughness of the book. I have changed since reading this book, because I have learned that everyone is beautiful on the inside, no matter their outside appearance. The character "Katrina" was considered ugly and was afraid to show her face, due to the mocking and laughter of the other children. Katrina was afraid to make friends because of the way she thought people would react to her face. I learned from katrina's behavior that everyone needs a friend and not just the "pretty people". I also have changed because I have learned that the way you treat others affects how people think of you tremendously. Once again, I had a great time reading The Paper Bag Christmas. Sincerely, Max Miller.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne
Happy holidays, I am Perry Wasserman a seventh grader a AEW Middle school and we read the Paper Bag Christmas in class.
As someone who doesn't celebrate Christmas, I liked the two main characters, Mo and Aaron learned a
lesson about the value of the holiday. the way most people think about Christmas is bright lights and gifts. Additionally I liked how Katrina learns not to be ashamed of herself and lets mo be her friend.
The twist in the story works when Dr. Ringle as Santa Claus tells the brothers they will have the best Christmas ever Although it will not be any gifts on their list. It is hard to imagine that they would like spending time with the kids, but they learn that giving is the best gift ever. Every year during Hanukah my family has a "no gift night" where we just donate gifts instead of getting. After reading your book I learned a lesson to about the holidays and giving.
I know your book is very popular and I hope that everyone who reads the great book learns the lesson I did about family, friends, caring, and giving.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Anna and I am a seventh grade student at A. E. Wright Middle School. I am twelve years old and my main hobby is horseback riding. I just read The Paper Bag Christmas during the holiday season. I enjoyed your novel because the book teaches the true meaning of Christmas.
Some of the reasons that I liked The Paper Bag Christmas was because the book showed to not always wish for materialistic items, the characterization of Molar was well-developed, and the dialogue in the book was interesting. Wishes do not always have to be about toys because toys will not last a lifetime but health or happiness would. I liked the characterization of the people in the book because I could identify with Molar. Molar cares fr his best friend, Katrina, and he seems to be a regular kid, like me. The dialogue in the book was interesting, realistic, and most of the characters were children, like me.
The importance of The Paper Bag Christmas is it teaches the true meaning of Christmas which is to be giving and caring of others. On the first Christmas, the three Wish Men brought gifts to baby Jesus to show their love. Christmas is also being with your family and exchanging gifts with each other. The author wanted the reader to know that Christmas can be fun with or without your family. The importance of family is that they are always there for you. Friendship is like family. You can count on friends and they will support you when you need it. Friends will also help you in tough times. The importance of serving others is that when you treat them with kindness you will be treated with the same kindness back. "Treat others the way you want to be treated." The way I am going to serve others is that I am going to help around the house, respect my elders, and donate my time and good to those in need.
Yours truly,
Anna

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Stefan Maish and I am 12 years old. I am a 7th grade student at A.E. Wright Middle School. MY language arts class just read your book the Paper Bag Christmas in early December. I enjoyed reading your book because I like the holiday season and your book helped show what Christmas is all about.
What I enjoyed most was how you took an average sentence and turned it into something that I could picture in my own mind.For example I could imagine Dr. Ringle in his wheel chair with all of the Christmas lights decorating it. Another scene I enjoyed was when Nurse Wimble ate the "reindeer poop". I also like how you combined different genres,for example, comedy and drama were two of the main themes.
Some of the lessons that I have learned from your book that it's better to give better than to receive and to appreciate each person for who they are on the inside. Now I appreciate more in life like my parents,aunts,uncles,siblings,cousins, second cousins,third cousins,etc. The importance of your book is the lessons it teaches to everybody who reads it. They will hopefully become more considerate people.
I am glad that my teacher,Mrs. Kimball assigned us your book The Paper Bag Christmas, for my class to read during the holidays. I hope you and your family had a Merry Christmas and a happy 2010.

Sincerely
Stefan Maish

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Alexandra and I would like to discuss your amazing book, The Paper Bag Christmas. This book helped me to realize that I am lucky to be healthy and how fortunate I am to have a family to care for me. Your book is a heartwarming story that moves me to tears, for in no other book can I find such a touching moral, and unforgettable tale. As true as this is, your book also provided humor. The sarcastic tones and altogether hilarious jokes put a warm comfortable feeling deep down inside of me.
In addition, at the end of the book, just about where Kat died, I realized something. Something important. I learned that as long as you have someone there for you whether it be a friend, a parent, a sister, a brother, or maybe a grandparent, you have everything you could ever need. Since I read this book I felt a terrific desire to volunteer someplace where less fortunate people need help, and that is just what I'm going to do. My Bat Mitzvah is coming up, and what better time to help people then at the time when you are being accepted as a mature, responsible being. Furthermore, I understand the importance of this book. The point is to be kind. That charity and compassion are the true businesses of mankind. Lastly, that you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover. Sometimes the most beautiful of gems are hidden in a rocky case.
To conclude, this book reached out to me. It made me feel sympathetic, and it made me want to help the destitute. After all, there is no better gift than the gift of friendship. Thank you for writing this book.



Sincerely,

Alexandra

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hello, my name is Henry Bond and The Paper Bag Christmas is one of my favorite books of all time! I have recommended the book to at least ten other people since I have read it, and all the people I know that have read it say it is their favorite book. The story sparked my interest on the first page and I couldn't put The Paper Bag Christmas down!
One reason why I like The Paper Bag Christmas is the little stories on the side. One of the little stories is Tim and Mo trying to prove that Dr. Ringle is Santa Claus, and how Madhu does not believe in Santa Claus because he is not Christian. Another reason why I like The Paper Bag Christmas is the vivid descriptions that make me think that I was in the hospital with Mo and Katrina. The last reason why I like The Paper Bag Christmas is an interesting story to tell, and is a story worth telling.
I have changed quite a bit since I have read this book. I realized that I don't need a bunch of gifts for Christmas, that seeing another person have joy because of you is better than all the presents in the world. I realized after reading The Paper Bag Christmas that friendship is very important. I realized that a friend can comfort the soul, which no present or amount of money could ever do.
The Paper Bag Christmas has taught me how to be a better person, and I can't thank you enough for showing me that.

Sincerely,

Henry Bond

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Delaney Kinford and I attend school at A. E. Wright Middle school and am in seventh-grade. I truly enjoyed your book The Paper Bag Christmas. It was a well written book that told a beautiful story and shared a heartwarming meaning.

There are many reasons why I liked your story. Most of all it always kept me interested and surprised me all the time. It made me feel like I was there when in the hospital when Katrina died , when the gurney races took place and during the memorable Christmas Pageant. Also this book made me realize that even when you think you have nothing to give, you can always give the gift of love and friendship. When Madhu laid the empty box net to baby Jesus I almost cried. It was very inspirational.

I have changed tremendously since reading your book. It made me rethink what I really want for Christmas and encouraged me to help others and be thankful for what I have. I will never again think about Christmas as a time to get gifts and cookies but rather as a time to give. Your book is important because it tells the untold sadness of how many people are not lucky enough to spend the holidays with their family but have to spend it ill in the hospital. It shares the stories that so few of us know even though they are not that uncommon.

In conclusion we should be thankful for what we have and help people that are less fortunate. That is the true spirit of the holiday season. And helping someone out gives us more joy than any shiny new toy can bring. Thank you for writing such a special book and sharing with me your insight into the true meaning of Christmas.

Yours truly,
Delaney Kinford

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Kelly Wrinkle, and I go to A.E. Wright Middle School. I thought that The Paper Bag Christmas was one of the most beautiful books that I have ever read. The Paper Bag Christmas had a lot of detail; it felt as if I was actually a character in the book.
I liked The Paper Bag Christmas because it showed the true meaning of Christmas and friendship. It showed the true meaning of Christmas when the main character, Molar, discovered that Christmas isn't about just getting presents but about family, friends and rejoicing. It showed that Friendship is about being there for your friends and about helping them through tough situations, which is what Molar did for Katrina during the Christmas Pageant.
The Paper Bag Christmas has changed me. Now I know how hard it is for some families who face illnesses in their lives and how lucky I am that I don't have to deal with cancer in my life. I am going to serve others by volunteering at the hospital with all of the cancer patients when I am older. I will also donate and raise to find a cure for cancer.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It had a heart-warming storyline with being both sad and happy at the same time. I look forward to reading other books tat you have written.

Yours truly,
Kelly Wrinkle

Anonymous said...

dear mr. milne,

My name is carl Massarella and i very much enjoyed your book, The Paper Bag Christmas. The book reinforced the meaning of Christmas and brought joy to our class. The Paper Bag christmas was one of the most heart-wearming stories I've ever read.

I liked the book for many reasons. The writing style was intriguinfg6 because from the beginning to the end of the novel, the main character,Molar, changed his attitude drammatically and finally excepted the miracle of Christmas. Also i felt emotion of every character and understood their roles well. My fvotite character was Madhu. The way he talked and acted in situations always managed to turn a bad one into a good one. It put a smile on my face every time he talked.

This Christmas was different this year as i learned it is better to give a gift than rather get something you don't really need. Three weeks ago after finishing The Paper Bag Christmas, i went out to get my mom a present with my dad, and took a long time preparing it. I've never done that before for my mom, but it felt realy good when she opened the gift up and looked shocked and happy. She keeps talking about the gift and keeps saing how thankfull she is that I am starting to be thoughtful of others. From now on I would rather give a gift than recieve a toy or such. The Paper Bag Christmas helped me make this Christmas an extra special one.

The importance of your book served me, as well as others with joy. People, when they read The Paper Bag Christmas will always learn to be a better all around person, someway no matter how big or small. Thank you for writing this book.

Sincerely,

Carl Massarella

Anonymous said...

December 28, 2010
Dear Mr Milne,
My name is Garrett Coffman and I am a student attending Arthur E. Wright middle school. In English we recently read your heart warming story The Paper Bag Christmas. It was a truly wonderful story that showed everyone the true meaning of Christmas and how everyone can experience it by helping those in need. This was a wonderful book and everyone in my class enjoyed reading about how one person can make a big impact in people's lives.
The Paper Bag Christmas has many great attributes, but two stand out as my favorites. The first reason I absolutely loved your book, Mr. Milne, is because it showed that anybody, even a 7 year old, can make a huge difference in someone's life just by offering to be their friend, such as spending time with them so they feel loved. The second reason why I thought your book was positively wonderful was how you showed that anyone can be a good person even if they keep it hidden. For example, Katrina just wanted to be left alone but Mo kept coming back and trying to befriend her. Eventually, Katrina's shell fell away and she showed her true colors to Mo. When Mo did that small thing and tried to become her friend, he made her last couple of weeks on Earth worth living because she had something to look forward to each week and someone she could call a friend.
This book has showed me the errors in my ways. It has showed me that no act of kindness goes wasted and that it is always good to go out of your way to be kind to another person because even just one compliment can make their day better. An example of this lesson is showing gratitude to your parents by saying thank you to your parents for making you meals. Another lesson it showed me was that the best thing you can do in your life is make other peoples lives better like Dr. Ringle. He tried to make the ill children feel joyful by dressing up as Santa Claus and handing out candy canes. This is an especially easy thing to do because even if you don't have a tangible object to give, you can still give people your attention and talk to them. The third and final lesson that i have learned from this touching book is the importance of those that surround you. Without family there would never be someone willing to listen to your trouble and make you feel better. Without friends we would all be lonely because we wouldn't have anybody to share our thoughts and time with. To show thanks for these things you can be kind to friends and family by doing small things like opening a door for them or helping them up when they have fallen. I have learned the importance of sharing good times and bad times with friends and family.
Thank you for writing this touching story that teaches us true meaning of Christmas. This book has affected all of my class mates and me in that we have become aware of how to treat other people. I believe that reading this book has changed my perspective of the world and has helped me become a better person. I look forward to reading your next book Sweet Misfortune which i hope turns out as spectacular as The Paper Bag Christmas

yours truly,


Garrett Coffman

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Laney and I am twelve years old and in seventh grade at AE Wright MS. I really enjoy reading and i found your book THE PAPERBAG CHRISTMAS a truly wonderful and touching story.
With that said, one thing i really loved about your story was how you describe the characters in such detail. I felt as though I personally knew them. Also, you made action sequences so real I could visualize every last detail as though it were happening right in front of me; specially the gurney races.
Since I have read THE PAPERBAG CHRISTMAS, I have realized how important it is to help and serve others. By looking at the relationship shared between Mo and Katrina, I saw that even if you don't want to help someone at first and it feels like a waste of time, once you really get to know and get get closer to them, it develops into a want to help the person, not a need or force keeping you with them. Your story also showed me how i have changed since reading it. For one, I now cry at the end of books; Katrina's death made me very emotional. Also, I took a way the gift of giving. I learned, as Mo an Aaron did, that the holidays aren't about receiving, but giving and helping others.
In conclusion, I would just like to say that you are an incredible author and I can't wait to read other books written by you! Thanks for writing THE PAPERBAG CHRISTMAS! IT ROCKED!
Thanks from a truly
satisfied reader,
Laney Garren

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Jake Anderson and I am in 7th grade at A.E. Wright Middle School. I thought your book, The Paper Bag Christmas, was very interesting and fun to read. Your book made me think differently about Christmas, and it also taught me about the kids who are sick and what they go through all year long.
The most interesting part of your book was when Mo had all the kids wear paper bags over their heads to make Katrina feel better about herself. I felt sad for her when she took off the paper bag that was hiding her face. I thought that was very brave of her. I would have felt scared of what everybody else would think. I was also happy for her because I knew she felt cared for by the others. My second favorite part of the book, was when Katrina was dying and she gave Molar her paper bag and her Christmas list, which said that she wanted a friend. That part was very sad, but at the same time, I felt happy.
One way that I changed after I read this book was the way I feel about Christmas. When Christmas passed two weeks ago, I thought of all the children who are sick and have to stay in the hospital all day. Another way I changed was the way I care for my family. Now that I see what some people go through, I don't want that to happen to my family. I am also going to help others because as I can see in The Paper Bag Christmas, you get something back.
Thank you for writing this book, because it is probably the best book I have ever read. I am suggesting this book to all my family members, because I want them to know the real meaning of Christmas. I also wold like them to see what other kids in this world have to deal with. I love this book so much, and I hope you write another.

Yours truly,
Jake Anderson

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Garrett Burns, and I attend A. E. Wright Middle School. Mrs. Kimball is my language arts teacher. Our class just finished reading your book, The Paper Bag Christmas. This book taught me the true meaning of Christmas.
The best parts were the cliffhangers at the end of each chapter. they added a lot of suspense and made me want to keep reading. Another thing I liked was when Tim was trying to convince everyone that Dr. Ringle was Santa. Nobody believed him but he kept finding clues. Tim has alot of perseverance. The lesson of the book is told very clearly and is one that needs to be told.
There have been many changes in my life after reading your book. One of them is to give away things that you don't need anymore, like old toys. Our family gives our old clothes to Good Will. I am also thinking about volunteering at the animal shelter where we found all of our pets because I realize how many animals are in need of help. the book is important because it teaches that some people are not as fortunate as you. Many people needs to learn the lesson in this book so then they could make the world a better place.
Thank you for writing this book. It has taught me a gret lesson. I hope you keep writing great books.

Sincerely,
Garrett Burnes

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne

My name is Annie Reznik and I am a 12 year old student at A. E. Wright Middle School in Calabasas. I think that The Paper Bag Christmas is a wonderful and inspiring book to read during the holidays. It makes you stop and think about not only the gifts you are receiving, but the people behind the the gifts, the people who are not fortunate enough to get the gifts you do, and the few children who are so selfless that they don't even want gifts, they just want a friend.

One thing that I loved about The Paper Bag Christmas is that it was all completely from the perspective of Molar. In a way, because it sounded like it was being told by an older Mo looking back at the experience, it showed how he had matured and what he had learned. There were parts when he would talk about realizing something later in life and I really enjoyed that. Another thing I thought was excellent about your book was that it had so much feeling and taught so many lessons with characters who were all very young. Usually, when an author wants to teach a lesson to his readers he uses an older, wiser character to do so, but in The Paper Bag Christmas the moral is learned from characters like Madhu and Katrina. Because I was able to relate to the characters, I found the book to be much more touching.

Since reading your book I have changed a lot in a more positive way. The charity and giving in your book inspired me to contact a children's hospital and local animal shelter and ask if there was any way I could volunteer periodically. I'm sure I'm not the only person who has read your amazing book and been inspired to find some way to contribute to a good cause or help someone in need and that is why The Paper Bag Christmas is so important. This holiday I looked past the presents and cherished the time I had with my family, thanked God for my amazing friends and realized that without them life would not be enjoyable and I wouldn't be the person I am today. I want you to know how much your book personally affected me. Around the time I read your book an extremely close family friend who I've known since birth went into liver failure. On the night of Christmas Day she died. I instantly thought of Katrina's death and felt I had to do something. I am currently planning on donating my time and money to a few charities in her name.

Thank you so much for writing this amazing book. I had no idea when I first started reading it in class that it would make me cry and drive me to do something good in my life. The Paper Bag Christmas will have a positive impact on anyone who reads it.

Your satisfied reader,
Annie Reznik

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
I'm Scout and I thought your book the paperbag Christmas was a very thoughtful and amazing book. it has changed my life. i really like the paperbag christmas because it taught me many things like the true meaning of christmas. i also liked how before each chapter you had a quote that foreshadowed it.
The Paperbag Christmas really touched my heart because it showed me that Christmas isn't all about material things its about giving.today X-mas has become comercialized and wrapped up in physical presents without meaning. before reading this book, i would make a list of things that i wanted for X-mas. even though i still woke up at early hours with my dad to go buy things on black friday. i tok that time to talk with him and to get to know him better, and for him to know me better although we were still going to get gifts we still had a great time together.
I thought the quotes at the beginning of the chapters were like wrapped presents because they foreshadowed the chapter. they were like X-mas gifts because you could predict what would happen but you wouldn't know what happens until you read it.
Sincerely Scout

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
I would like to introduce myself,I am Ed Munoz of Agoura Hills, California,and it's very nice of you to be reading my letter. Mr.Milne, my class and I have your fine book the Paper Bag Christmas,which has lived up to it's name.Undoubtedly,the Paper Bag Christmas is the kindest,most heartwarming, and touching story of Christmas I have ever read.

My favorite thing about your book is that the characters is that the characters learn to never loose hope. Such as when Mo races with Katrina on the gurney and breaks some bones just to get Katrina to do a part in the Christmas Pageant.I didn't have enough time to finish this.Sorry.


Sincerely,
Ed Munoz

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
My name is Morgan Davidson and I am a student at A.E.Wright Middle school.Our entire grade just read your book The Paper Bag Christmas.It was a wonderful story that I enjoyed very much.
There were many things I adored about this story. I love that you inserted lots of dialouge and your concept was something we can all put in our daily lives.As we read this book in class we assigned speaking roles to students and that made me feel like I was a little bird following the characters around the book. Your theme of the book warmed my heart for the better as we finished the book on the last day before winter break.All through break I have been thinking how I can be more like the boys.
In your awesome book we all learned a lesson , to appreciate what we have .I personally learned how important it is to give,and if your hand is open to give it is also open to receive. Recently my family and I went to feed the homeless at a rescue mission, and I automatically thought of your book and Dr. Ringle .My family and I were all nervous as Aron and Mo were. Also for Hanukkah this year my brothers expected the most new popular toy and had a huge wish list they didn't realize how lucky they were to even get a gift.
Having my grandmother just pass away from cancer and my grandfather just being diagnosed with it this book was something I could relate to.When Katrina died my heart melted and I was crying for a long time. My friends all asked me why I was crying and I said,"I finally realize how much I take for granted. My health,family dog, you guys too.I am crying about Katrina but not as a Character but as a reminder of how selfish we can be sometimes without even noticing." They were all in shock and had finally jumped on to my train of recognition.This book pops in my mind every time I drive past the hospital or see somebody homeless on the side of the road.
I must thank you again for this beautiful story and the friendly reminder of how lucky we are today .


Best wishes,
Morgan Davidson

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Madeline and I was truly inspired by your touching novel, The Paper Bag Christmas. The book demonstrates the actual meaning of Christmas-celebrating the birth of Jesus and gathering with beloveds.

In The Paper Bag Christmas, I adored the scene when all the angels in the Christmas pageant came onto the stage with white paper bags, so Katrina wouldn't be mocked. This scene is so memorable because it shows just how far true friends will go in order to make you satisfied. Another scene in the book that was sweet yet distressing was when Katrina was lying in her deathbed in the hospital and she gave Molar her most treasured possession-her paper bag. That moment was so special because Katrina really trusted Molar with all her heart; and by showing that she did, she handed him the most important object she ever owned.

After I read the novel, I opened my eyes to the fact that I should be more grateful for my family and friends, for some children like Katrina don't have anyone. Similarly, by reading the novel, I realized that that becoming someone's friend could mean the world to them. This is because when Molar became Katrina's friend, he later found that having a genuine friend was exactly what Katrina wanted for Christmas. The Paper Bag Christmas is a heartwarming story that shows true friendship, family, and the gratifying feeling of serving others. For in the book, Molar makes new friends in the hospital while serving them because of their illnesses, and he also becomes more grateful for his family.

I truly enjoyed reading the Paper Bag Christmas. I hope you will make more books similar to this novel! Thank you for acknowledging my letter.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hello. My name is Mehrnaz Ashley Siavoshi. I truly enjoyed reading your novel The Paper Bag Christmas. Although I have read many touching books, this was the one I enjoyed the most and I have learned many virtuous things from each of the characters.

There are many things I learned and enjoyed from your book. The first one is obvious and you have probably heard it many times in praise. The Paper Bag Christmas showed the true meaning of Christmas and how one can change someone's life for the better. Another reason is that it showed how one experience can change someone. Molar matured and became much more understanding during his experience at the hospital, which was something I enjoyed. Finally, The Paper Bag Christmas showed that gifts and joy don't have to be things you pay for, and they can mean much more that that. For example, Katrina gave Madhu much more that a liver, she gave him back his family, the most precious gift of all.

Your book has much importance for young readers because it shows not to be greedy and how charity and helping someone can be like a miracle to them. Ever since reading your book, I've tried to be everyone's friend because I don't always know what problems they might have in their lives and a friend might be all they need. I will also try to help others a lot more. There is a nursing home near by and I plan to go volunteer there in the near future. Whenever I volunteer there, the smiles on their faces after I've played the piano or helped them write a letter to their children is a present I will never forget; something I will always cherish.

In closure, I really enjoyed your novel and I can't wait to read your other books and be first in line to purchase Sweet Misfortune in June. Thank you for putting time and effort into writing these amazing, insightful books. You are truly a hero of today.

With all and more due respect,
Mehrnaz Ashley Siavoshi

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hello, my name is Kathryn Meola. I really enjoyed reading your book, The Paper Bag Christmas.
One reason why i enjoyed your book was that it was very well written and the whole time had me wondering what was going to happen next. Another reason is that the book is a great example of the importance of family and friendship, and the true meaning of christmas.
Family, friendship, and serving others is very important. Family and friends are in your life to love and help you. Serving others is very important because you need to treat other the way you wish to be treated. If you were in need of something, you would want someone else too help you out. I plan to help others out by being a nicer person and volunteering at hospitals, and retirement homes.
I really enjoyed readig your book and i hope you write more in the future. Your book really inspired me.

Yours truly,
Kathryn Meola

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Alex Behlers, and I read your book The Paper Bag Christmas along with the rest of my class. Your book changed my point of view to Christmas. I recommended your book to my whole family.
I love the fact that you realy described what Katrinas room looks like so your readers feel like they are sitting next to Katrina. My favorite part in this story is when Katrina and Molar race on the gurneys and Molar gets hurt. That part was suspenceful.
After I read this book I realized that I had everything I could ever want for christmas, a family, a house, and food and water. I also learned the importance of friendship and family and how I need to appreciate them while I can. Friends and family help you through your hard times. They are always there when you need them.
Mr. Milne, I really loved your book and I really hope you come out with a second one or a movie, that would be cool. You are an inspiring writer.
Yours truly,
Alex S. Behlers

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
I am i student at AE Wright Middle school who has just recently read your book.This story showed me a new perspective on how i should be living my daily life. It truly was an amazing book to read.
I enjoyed The Paper Bag Christmas because it had true meaning that anyone can relate to. It made me want to go do something kind or share my love with others because i now know how happy it really makes people feel when you someone shares an act of kindness.
When i read this book i thought back to all the important and wonderful things my family has done for me. My family has given me everything i need to stay stable in my life and they teach me things that i would never learn from anyone else. I may not have appreciated any of these things if i hadn't read this book. I now know that even one man, and one book can very easily and quickly influence someone to become a completely new person. A person with real thoughts, kindness, and pride to help them succeed in the responsibility of helping one another.
i learned many new and important things in this story that i will never forget because now i believe it had changed me for a lifetime. Thank you for writing this spectacular book.
Yours truly,
Talia Plachta

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

I am Julia Wysocka from Mrs. Kimball's class of A.E. Wright. I enjoyed reading your book The Paper Bag Christmas.
Your book was stuffed with suspenseful description which made me feel like I was there and experiencing it. When my class got to the part where Katrina died and donated her liver to Madhu,even knowing it wasn't real, but thinking of tragedies like this could actually happen, made me sob. The description is what made it so intense, describing how Mo felt and trying to put that as my own feelings could only make me imagine the sorrow and mourning he felt of Katrina's death. I also liked reading the quotes before each chapter. The quotes were very meaningful and took some thought to really understand what they meant.
Since reading the book, I feel like I have really changed. I remember Christmas of '08 being horrible. I had made my wish list months before the big day, hoping to get exactly what I had wanted.The day Christmas came I opened up all my presents, but couldn't find anything I had asked for. Just because of that it ruined my mood completely. This book taught me the true meaning of Christmas, I should not want anything but be grateful for all that I have, for instance family, food, and shelter.
Once again thank you for writing this book and helping me realize the true meaning of Christmas. I hope to read more of your books in the future.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Abeera Tareen and your book, The Paper Bag Christmas, really touched my heart, and your writing dug me into the story. I really enjoyed this book for many reasons.
A few reasons why this book was so great is not only were the characters realistic, but they were sweet, thoughtful, and trustworthy. The overall story realistic, and I was able to visualize every moment of it. Another reason is that i personally love a happy ending. The way you created sadness ans mixed into everyone getting what they wanted for Christmas was perfect and interesting.
I feel the importance of your book is to find and to understand the true meaning of Christmas. I learned that Christmas is all about helping each other and to share the holidays with your new friends, old friends, and your family. Plus Christmas is not only about the presents it's about making the holidays special and worthwhile. I've changed after reading your book by having the urge to help others whether it's donating to the poor, reading books to sick children in the hospital, or to just start out reading to my baby brothers class at school. I found out that children who don't have much, appreciate what you do for them even if it's something simple like reading them a book.
Once again your book was very interesting to read and I hope I have a chance to read the book again. Thank you for the books we enjoyed them greatly.

Yours truly,
Abeera Tareen

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne

My name is Jacob Breddan , I am a student at AEWright middle school in calabalasas California. I have just finished reading the Paper Bag Christmas and it's a heart warming story that tought me all about family, freinds, and love.
In your story I loved how helped the reader visualize what he was reading .By reading your story I have changed dramaticly Like by not looking forward to presents but the face my family makes whaen they get there's .I have found the importance of yous book is to get poople to greatful for what they have not what they don't.
Dear Milne thank you for writing this novel and sharing the true meaning of Christmas with me.
Yours truly,
Jake

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Greetings! My name is Mackenzie Jordan and I recently read your book, The Paper Bag Christmas with my language arts class in school. I really enjoyed the story and think everyone should have the chance to understand the true meaning of Christmas.
The story of Aaron and Molar is a unique one, and there are many things I like about it. The first thing i like is how much Mo and Aaron changed by the end of the book. At first, they thought it would be sort of strange to work at a hospital all the time and weren't excited to visit the children. But after a while they made some new friends like Madhu and Katrina, and couldn't wait to visit them. I think it is wonderful that Mo and Aaron learned to love doing service for the hospital and enjoyed helping out. The second thing I liked about the book is how Katrina got up enough courage to reveal her face to the hospital and audience of the Christmas Pageant. It was a very exciting part of the book, and a big sacrifice for Katrina. I nthink that giving her bag to baby Jesus was a symbol that she will never hide her face again.
I believe that The Paper Bag Christmas is very special, and it shows kids how important it is to respect your family anf friends, and serve others. Family and friends are rare treasures, and you've shown that when you do find them you should respect them, care for them, and love them. They are important because everyone needs a friend to talk with, play with, and laugh with. And when you have a bad day, someone should always be there to cheer you up. Your book has also inspired me to serve others. I probably won't dress up as an elf in a hospital, but I do plan to be more caring and helpful by helping people with homework, inviting people who look lonely to sit with me at lunch, and sticking up for friends who are being teased.
The Paper Bag Christmas was very exciting and I hope tat you continue to write more books. Thank you for showing me the true meaning of Christmas.

Yours truly,
Mackenzie Jordan

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hi, I'm Hannah, I'm twelve years old and I am in Ms. Kimball's Seventh Grade Language Arts class, and we read the Paper Bag Christmas. It was a great story, in my opinion about how holidays bring people together and are a time to celebrate with family and friends
I enjoyed your book because it says during the commercial moments of the holidays, forget about yourself for a while and focus on people who can't give their family elegant gifts, and to be charitable. Another reason I like this book is because it is somewhat relatable. If you don't understand Christmas, like me, you are Madhu. Or the many other characters in this book.
The book supplies the reader with knowledge and the ability to change in a few ways. I changed while reading it by thinking more about others before thinking of myself. This book is important to tell others that to give is better then to receive. The importance of family, friends and serving others is also a major part in this book. Families are people that you love,live with, and couldn't live without. Friends love you, listen, and help with problems. Serving others is a major thing in this day and age that people haven't been doing lately. I want to serve and help my community more as well.
All and all, I loved the book and want to read your next book that you write! In the crazy moments of the holiday rush, the true meaning of the holidays was important. Happy New Year!
Yours truly,
Hannah Levin

Anonymous said...

Hi Mr. Milne!

My letter is posted above. My teacher, Mrs. Kimball, was the one who won Sweet Misfortune, and she lent it to me. I just want to say that it is an amazing book. I love your ideas for the book! Thanks for writing these great books!

---
M. Ashley S.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Sarah Zhou and my teacher Mrs. Kimball introduced our class to your book, The Paper Bag Christmas. After reading The Paper Bag Christmas I felt extremely touched by the whole story. Usually a is supposed to leave just a memory, but this book changed me in many ways.

When I first started to read the book, I thought it was a little bit boring, but as I kept on reading I understoof it more. The Paper Bag Christmas represents not only the spirit of true Christmas, but it also represents what you can achieve though service and volunteering The book also taught many valuable lessons, like not to judge a person on first encounter and not to give up. When Mo first met Katrina and Nurse Wimble they were both extremely grumpy people. As the story unfolded, Katrina opened up to Mo about why she acts the way she does and Nurse Wimble showed that she is a kind person-deep down. The relationship between Katrina and Molar showed what it would be like between true friends, I felt touched that Molar cared about Katrina to the extent that he got all the angels to put on paper bags so Katrina wouldn't feel left out, but, then again, that's what true friendship is. Even though Katrina knew she was going to die and 'join her family' soon, she still had to give back to the people at the hospital. Madhu received a liver and Frank received enough money to pay back his brother's hospital fees.

At first I thought The Paper Bag Christmas was just going to be a book I had to read, get a good grade on, and forget for the rest of my life, but it didn't turn out that way. After reading the book, I felt changed in many ways. One way is that I started to stand up for more people, just like Lynn did for Katrina. I've tried not to make fun of people, since I probably won't understand their situation. All through my elementary years, I've thought that Christmas time meant presents, but now I understand that it's better to give than to get. Having family and frieds to be there when you are down is one of the simplest, yet most important things in life. Some people on want, while others give. When you give to others, you get this feeling that you are a kind person, and that feeling just automatically brightens up your day. Helping others that arent as fortunate as you is also very important, since you can give back in some way to them, since they can't be helped.

The Paper Bag Christmas is a story that everyone of all ages should readat one point of their lives. I hope that one day I will change into a person like Lynn, stand up for more people, and everyone will be changed in one way or another after reading this story.

Yours truly,
Sarah Zhou

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Emily Marcus, and I attend A.E. Wright Middle School in Calabasas, California. My language arts teacher, Mrs. Kimball, had our class read The Paper Bag Christmas right before the holiday season. I really enjoyed reading your outstanding, heartfelt novel,and it taught me to never judge somebody until you stand in their situation.
I loved the theme of the story, for it truly made me understand the real meaning of Christmas and how lucky and fortunate I am to live a healthy and happy life. I also thought it was clever how you made hospitalized children most of the the main characters in The Paper Bag Christmas. It was an excellent way to teach children that most kids don't appreciate what they have and always want more, while others are thankful for living one more day. AS well, I liked how the book was both serious and funny. The holiday show the children at the hospital put on had me laughing loudly in the beginning. Towards the end when Katrina removed her paper bag, I couldn't stop the tears from rolling down my cheeks.
I have profoundly changed after reading your touching story, and the characters really encouraged me to do better in my life. The Paper Bag Christmas taught me that instead of buying materialistic items for no reason at all, I can be wishing for more valuable and important things. Also, the book teaches me to accept that I have a fantastic life, but to help out others who are not as lucky. It is sad but true that a good amount of children in the world aren't going to live a long life, and their time left is limited, for they were infected with horrid diseases. Katrina knows that, and therefore wants a friend for Christmas; someone in her last few weeks that will be nice to her, and be there for her. Madhu wants to go home to his family, but needs a new liver. Then there is Mo who isn't sick, and is trying to figure out what he wants for the holiday. The Paper Bag Christmas inspired me to serve others. My mom and I occasionally volunteer at our local food pantry, and I will work extra hours to help families who are not as lucky as mine. AS well, I am going to do more charity work,and I would really love to spend time being a friend to sick children at the hospital, and know that I made a different in their lives, just like Mo and Aaron.
Yours truly,
Emily Marcus

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Samara Kleinfinger, and I am a seventh-grader at A.E. Wright Middle School. In my language arts class I read your book the The Paper Bag Christmas. It was one of the best books I have ever read.
There are many reasons that i enjoyed your book. First, it taught a great lesson about not judging people and acceptance. Second, it also taught a great lesson about helping others. Lastly, I liked the way you gave those lessons while making it a great book for kids.
Since reading your book I have changed by not judging people by the way they look and getting to know them first. Also, since I've read your book I plan to serve others by donating my old clothes and books to people in need, and to particopate in any upcoming toy drives and food drives.
Your book was really great and I will recommend it to all of my friends and family.

Yours truly,
Samara Kleinfinger

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,

Hello my name is Payge Green. The Paper Bag Christmas was one of the best books I have ever read. I felt like I really connected to the characters.
I remember how the intense parts really touched my heart. The scene I remember most was when Katrina became brave enough to sacrafice the bag she held onto for so long. Not only did she sacrifice the bag but, but Katrina sacraficed her identity, too. I also enjoyed the Paper Bag Christmas because the story showed a beautiful friendship that blossomed. Katrina only wanted one gift for Christmas. That one gift was a friend. Both Katrina and Molar learned the true meaning and value of friendship.
After reading this book, my eyes really opened up. The Paper Bag Christmas taught me to never take life for granted. Being healthy, happy, and having a great family is a privlidge. Not everyone in the world has a great life. This book shows the importance serving others and doing good deeds. A lot take and receive, but never give back. People should understand love isnt love until you give it away.

Mr. Milne, thank you for writing this book. i really enjoyed reading the Paper Bag Christmas.

Yours Truly,
Payge Green

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hello, my name is Jackie Prosser,and I go to A.E. Wright Middle School. The Paper Bag Christmas was an amazing book, and I would recomend it to all of my friends.
In The Paper Bag Christmas, I liked how I could Picture exactly what the characters looked like, and I liked how I could do the same with the setting. Also I loved Katrina and Mo's friendship,it started a little rocky, but then the became closer than ever imagined.
The importance of your book is very great. The Paper Bag Christmas shows that friendship can be found in the most unlikely of places, and that you can make the best of a bad situation just by having a good attitude, like Tim and Mudhu. Since reading your book, I have become more thankful for everyday things things so many children have to live without. Also, for the first time since I could write, I did not write a Christmas list, not because I think I am too old. but because all I wanted for Christmas was a happy and healthy family.
After reading the Paper Bag Christmas, I look forward to reading all of your other books. Also, The Paper Bag Christmas is now one of my favorite books.
Yours truly,
Jackie Prosser

Anonymous said...

dear Mr Milne,

I am Adam Lemons a student at A. E. Wright Middle School and of of my E.L.A teacher Mrs. Kimball. As you already know my class read your book The Paper bag Christmas.

I love Christmas because of how everyone is brought together even my mom's bickering sisters. I liked your book because it included friendship which iv always thought as important. I also liked how u described the Christmas morning at Molar's house in the end because it so much resembled mine

I really do think that your book is important to those who think Christmas is all about getting the most presants.

I want to thank you for writing this inspiring story. I strongly recommend your book to all who haven't read it yet.

Yours truly,
Adam Lemons

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Ben Levi and I recently finished your very touching book, The Paper Bag Christmas. It was definitely one of my favorite books.
The Paper Beg Christmas made me think differently about the holiday season. I enjoyed reading about how one little boy changed the meaning of Christmas for so many people. I liked that Timothy had so much spirit in Santa Claus, and he didn't care about what other people told him. what I was most fond of was that Mo gave Katrina the best gift she could possibly receive; a friend. I think that was the purpose of this book.
I have changed in so many ways after reading your book. I now know that the holidays are not just about presents, but about friendship, kindness, and family. I also understand that serving others can effect the ways someone acts and lives in your life.
I am so joyful that you had the time to construct The Paper Bag Christmas. I am inspired by your purpose to change someone's perspective on Christmas.
Yours truly,
Ben Levi

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne
Hello my name is Dante Augello. I go to A.E Wright Middle school. My classmates and I have read you book, The Paper Bag Christmas. One thing I liked about it was that at the end everything tied together and made sense. I think your book was very touching and inspiring book for me ad many of the other kids here.
Your book The Paper Bag Christmas is an important book for children to read. Another thing i liked about it is that everyone got what they wanted in the end. Those are the two most important things in the book.
The reason that they are the most important things is because it shows how one person can make so many people happy. The book hasn't effected me as much as most of the kids in the class because i don't celebrate Christmas. i have no religion Your book is important to show what family and friendship can achieve.
I think your book would help many people who read it. I will try to encourage friends and family to do so. If your great book does not help spread the word about the true meaning of Christmas, i don't know what will. Thank you Mr. Milne for writing The Paper Bag Christmas.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Gwen Royal and The Paper Bag Christmas touched me in a way I didn't think possible. The Paper Bag Christmas is a book that I think everyone should read at least once in his/her lifetime.
When I started to read The Paper Bag Christmas, I didn't get into it as much as I did towards the end, like most books. But there is something special about this book and and it brings joy, happiness, sadness, and thought. What I mean by thought is that The Paper Bag Christmas brings thought of appreciation and friendship. There was true friendship between Katrina and Mo because true friends would make a flock of angels put paper bags over their heads to make the other one feel better about themselves. Some of my true friends would do that for me and I would do the same for them. The ending of the book was truly spectacular not because Katrina died, but because of the gifts she gave. There were some oblivious gifts such as her liver to Madhu and her trust fund to the janitor, but she gave her list and bag to Mo. Those simple things symbolize something else, her dignity.
When my class started to read The Paper Bag Christmas, I thought "Okay, here is just another book I have to read to get a good grade." After reading it however, my heart felt warm and my eyes had tears in them. The ending was sad, but the book taught me lessons about friendship, family, and serving others. This book made me appreciate what I have and how lucky I really am, to have friends and family that I know I can turn to if I have issues in my life.
Thank you for writing The Paper Bag Christmas, Mr. Milne, and I hope other people can be touched by that book just like me. Someday, I hope to experience a real Christmas, just like Mo.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
I currently attend A.E. Wright Middle School. My teacher Mrs. Kimball dearly loves you book The Paper Bag Christmas. Your book was a joy to read, I am sure the whole class could not stop reading it. Your book was fun and descriptive; it is a great book for all ages. The Paper Bag Christmas also showed me the importance of treating others how you wish to be treated.
I also enjoyed most, if not all,of your characters. One of which I was completely wrong about, Katrina. The first time you introduced Katrina,it lead me to believe that she was a cold selfish person.Boy was I wrong . At the end of the story she was a really a nice , giving person. this was a huge influence why I loved your book. It also had very vivid realistic description. your book showed me the way to treat everyone in the world with kindness.
Thank you for putting such a phenomenal story out for everyone to read.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hello, Mr. Milne, my name is Sharon Ghalchi, and I am twelve. I am a seventh grader at A. E. Wright, and I just finished your book the Paper Bag Christmas. I thought it was a wonderful book that shared the true meaning of Christmas with all its readers. It's a great book for readers everywhere.
I loved the book because it showed the true meaning of Christmas and because I alway wanted to see what would happen next. Everybody thinks Christmas is about getting presents. You showed that its about friendship, giving, and just making someone else feel good. The message reached all your readers. Yous also left each chapter with a cliffhanger, and I was dying to see what would happen next. I love it when a author does that because I can never put the book down. You wrote the best Christmas book ever.
Your book changed me in more ways than one. you taught me that the holiday season isn't just about presents, that the best gift is the gift of giving. I will never see the holiday season the same way again. You also taught me about the importance of friendship and how being a friend to someone can change both your life and theirs.
Reading your book has changed my life. I am really looking foreword to reading your other books. If your new book is half as good as this one you will see me buying it in the summer.

Yours truly,
Sharon Ghalchi

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hello, Mr. Milne. I'm Ashlyn Gary, and I thought The Paper Bag Christmas was a touching, inspiring, humbling, emotional, and heartwarming story.
I liked The Paer Bag Christmas because the book showed the true meaning of Christmas. The Paper Bag Christmas showed that Christmas isn't about materialistic things such as toys or the hustle and bustle of getting perfect gifts; it's about being joyful, the birth of Christ, and spending time with family. Another reason why I liked The Paper Bag Christmas was that this book showed the importance of friendship and serving others. This book has also taught me to have consideration for others.
I've changed since reading The Paper Bag Christmas because now I know the true meaning of Christmas. This book is a perfect example of the greatness of quality rather than quantity. Often it is easy to forget the true meaning of Christmas, with all of the materialistic things that revolve around the holidays. Christmas is really about spending time with family and friends, serving others, and being joyful. It is not about what we get or what you even give material wise, but rather what we an give ourselves and in return receive the greatest gift of all-or rather, as stated in the book, the gift that is "everything you've never wanted for Christmas." After reading this book, I'm going to get involved in community service. I'm also going to donate clothes, blankets, gift cards, and more to the poor and needy families.
You bring light to the true meaning of Christmas. The Paper Bag Christmas is a wonderfully beautiful and heartwarming story that brought me laughter, as well as tears. I hope you make a sequel to The Paper Bag Christmas.


Yours Truly,

Ashlyn Gary

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
I am Ally Freed and I go to A.E.Wright Middle School. I am in the seventh grade in Mrs. Kimball's Language Arts class where we read The Paper Bag Christmas. I really enjoyed reading your book and it opened my eyes to how fortunate I am to be healthy and have so many wonderful friends.
In your book you described every detail so thoroughly like what Katrina wore, how itchy the elf costumes were, and how Katrina felt. I felt like I was there, in Katrina's position and in Mo's position. You described how deathly sick Katrina was to how sick she was of being alone and having no friends. Your book described friendship and how important it is to help others. Another reason why I really enjoyed your book was because it taught me some very valuable lessons. I learned that the gift of helping others, lending a hand, and being a friend is better than a present. Katrina taught me this by giving Madhu her liver and Tim her trust fund money. Mo taught me that just by being a friend you could make a difference in someone's life.
The importance of family and friendship is so powerful. Being close makes it easier to talk about things and having a friend is a fun way to spend time. Family always has your back just like a real friend would. Without friends and family there is no one to talk to about sad times,happy times, and about daily life. Serving others makes me feel good inside and it is important because you should always put others in need before yourself. Just one person could save a life but a lot of people could save a lot of lives. Since I have read the book I have wanted to be a better person and do better things. If you can lend a had then lend a hand.
Your book really spoke to me in many ways. Always helping others is the right way to go. I am really looking forward to reading your next book.
Sincerely,
Ally Freed

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hi, I'm Aram Modirmassihai and I recently read your book The Paper Bag Christmas with my language arts class at A.E. Wright Middle School. I truly enjoyed reading this book.
I enjoyed this novel because it always kept me interested, I was definitely inspired. This novel was fictional, but it was such an amazingly written book that I almost cried when Katrina died. Another great aspect of the book throughout the whole thing from begining to end, the whole story comes full circle. From Mo going to visit Santa as a child to when he took his own kids to visit Santa. This book is great, it never sugar -coats anything; it tells you the truth no matter how sad, from Katrina's death to the survival of Madhu. This causes scenes so vivid and emotional you feel as if your their.
Since I read this book, my view of the world has changed. I learned how blessed I am to live such a great life. the importance of this book is the importance of family and friends. What is shown in the novel is that all people need are people that really care about them whether that's a friend or family member. Love and kindness are the best gifts anyone can give to someone. That's what this book Christmas and everyday mean to me. I plan to be nicer to people, help my family, and complain less to my parents.
Mr.Milne, this book was awesome, an amazing piece of writing. Thank you.
Yours truly,
Aram Modirmassihai

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Cameron Costin and I am a seventh-grade student at A.E Wright Middle School. As a class assignment we read your book little by little each day. When I first heard the title I assumed it would be a boring and uninteresting story, but as the book progressed, I found myself absorbed with every page. Trying not to read on, I often found myself pages ahead.

There are an endless amount of reasons why I enjoyed your book but here are two. Firstly it was interesting. Normally when there are books with strong messages and moral value they aren't interesting or fun to read. Every page of your book was interesting or exciting to read. Secondly it was educating. your book taught me the true meaning of Christmas, love, and family.
The following are details I would like to add. I have really changed since reading your book. One way I've changed is that I'm not selfish anymore. I don't ask for lot's of gifts for holidays and I think about others before me. Also, I want to discuss the importance of your book. The reason why it's important is because it lets people know what true love, friendship, happiness, and family is. The book also teaches you about what Christmas is about. It shows how grateful we are to have a loving family that cares for us. Also it shows to be friends with people not for there appearance but for there personality.
I really enjoyed reading your book. I hope that other people see the message and value that your book showed.

Your truly,
Cameron Costin

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Darby Tarlow and I thought your book The Paper bag Christmas was very unique and interesting. When Mrs. Kimball told the class about your book and that we were going to read it, I thought it would be another dull, uneventful school book, but was pleasantly suprised with the plot and the quality of the writing.
One thing that I thought made the book really good was that I could to the characters . For example, when I was Mo's age I too wanted every single thing that I saw in every toy commercial that I saw;but when it was finally Christmas time and I had gotten some of the toys that I had asked for I was always dissappointed that I hadn't gotten all of the things on my list. Also I would play with them for one day but by the next morning would forget that it even existed. Another thing that I enjoyed about your story was the mystery about Santa Clause. It added suspense and made a satisfying climax.
Thank you for reading this letter, and I hope to read more of your books in the future.

Yours truly,
Darby Tarlow

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne

Hi, my name is Eric Winikoff, and I thought your book was utterly amazing. I just wanted to keep reading and reading.

One thing in the Paper Bag Christmas I really enjoyed was all the adventure. I liked the adventure because it always made me want to keep reading. My favorite adventure scene was when Mo and Katrina had the gurney race; I loved it. Another thing I really enjoyed in the story was the friendship that took place (between Mo and Katrina). It was truly amazing how Mo was able to help Katrina through her differences and become friends.

I think the importance of Mr. Milne's book is to show others that no matter how different someone is, it doesn't make them mean, ugly, stupid,etc. And even if you, as a person, think you are any of the things above, then you shouldn't let them bring you down. Also, this boo definitely brought the importance of family to my attention. When you have family, you always know there is someone who cares for you, loves you and will always be there for you. Family also brings you a state of comfortability, so when you are with people you love you feel comfortable.

I thought your story was truly fantastic.


Yours truly,
Eric Winikoff

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Kelsey and I am 13 years old. My classmates and I just finished reading The Paper Bag Christmas. I was very impacted by your story and it helped me to learn the true meaning of Christmas.
Your book is now one of my favorites. I really enjoyed reading it and it taught me a lot. I learned that you have to enjoy life while you have it because you never know when it will be over. I also learned that a friend is the most valuable gift you could ever receive and that they will help you through all the hard times. I liked how you wrote about a children's topic and decided to make it something that appeals to every age.
Since reading your book I have started to be more worry-free and enjoy every minute life gives me. I have realized how lucky I am to have amazing friends. I am going to try to visit the children's hospital and bring stuffed animal or something to put a smile on their faces.
This last year, one of my friends had an aneurism and a couple months later a different friend passed away. It was difficult reading your book because it brought back a few sad memories, but it was also comforting to know that I had other friends to help me through it. Your book was very relatable and showed me that even in life's toughest moments you have people that love you and life goes on.

Yours truly,
Kelsey Gold

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr Milne,

My name is Cruz Gutierrez, and I'm a student in Mrs.Kimball's seventh-grade class. I'm athletic and energetic kid. Our class just finished reading your sensational book Paper Bag Christmas. It was a caring and really sad story.
I liked the story because it makes you rethink the way you live
your life and how you conduct yourself. One of my favorite thing about the book was the quotes from famous people at the beginning of each chapter. My favorite quote was from Shirley Temple when she said,"I stopped believing in Santa when I was six and he asked me for my autograph."
Since your book, I've changed because I tell my parents I love the more often, because you never know what could happen. The importance of your story is for people to put themselves in Katrina's to see how they would feel. The story also shows how important family and friendship are to a person, which Katrina didn't have for a long time. This year I plan to go out of my way to be a better person and put smiles on people's face.
After all of this I plan to read many more of your books. Thank you for your enjoyment. I also hope every one in your family is doing well.


Yours truly,

Cruz

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Darby Tarlow and I thought your book The Paper bag Christmas was very uniqueand interesting. When Mrs. Kimball told the class about your book and that we were going to read it, I thought it would be another dull, uneventful school book, but was pleasantly supprised with the plot and the quality of the writing.
One thing that I thought made the book really good was that I could to the characters . For example, when I was Mo's age I too wanted every single thing that I saw in every toy commercial that I saw;but when it was finally Christmas time and I had gotten some of the toys that I had asked for I was always dissapointed that I hadn't gotten all of the things on my list. Also I would play with them for one day but by the next morning would forget that it even existed. Another thing that I enjoyed about your story was the mystery about Santa Clause. It added suspense and made a satisfying climax.
Thank you for reading this letter, and I hope to read more of your books in the future.

Yours truly,
Darby Tarlow

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,

Hello,my name is Shannon Garvey and i was the student in Mrs.Kimball's class who won your book with it's brand new cover. When I won, I was exited but it wasnt until i read your book that i discovered the treasure inside. You wrote an inspiring story that I will read to my children and hold close to my heart.

I enjoyed your novel because it showed love and kindness. It especially showed these traits when Mo became Katrina's first friend and when Lynn stood up for Katrina when no one else did. It was impowering to understand the meaning of Christmas. How presents are nice ,but love is better than any gift. These thoughts filled my head with appreciation for being so fortunate.

Since I read your book, I've noticed changes about myself. How even if I dont know someone,but I see them getting bullied I'll stop it. If everyone is doing one thing like teasing someone for a bad grade, I will go comfort them instead. I feel that even if you dont fit in, but your the better person, you're the one people should look up to. Another thing I have noticed is the importance of family,friendship,and serving others.When it comes to family I find that even if you argue,you love eachother. My parents provide for me and give me food and shelter. Even though sometimes my brother and I yell, I know he will always have my back. When it comes to my friends, they are my family away from home. They have my back and stand by me. If I were to lose them,I do not know what I would do. To serve others is to be responsible. If to serve others is to help a disabled person across the street, or just doing your work. These are some of the changes I have noticed.

Your novel moved me to be nicer and show the importance of others. I will recommend your book to people who seem lost. This was a good experience for me reading it and I hop it was a good experience for you to write it. I hope you write another book like this.

Yours truly,
Shannon

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,

My name is Shae Souter, and I always love to find good morals and lessons in the books I read. That is why I enjoyed reading The Paper Bag Christmas.
In The Paper Bag Christmas I liked how so many moments in the story were deep enough to feel the emotions of your character. Another element I liked about the book was the ongoing mystery that slowly unfolded through the course of the story. This compelled me to read on.
Ever since I read The Paper Bag Christmas I've been thinking about how much better a person I could be by helping others. Every other weekend I go to a Sunday School that encourages us to do some kind of community serves, like collecting money for poor families that don't have as much as we do. Formerly, I didn't do this with my hole heart. Now that I've been motivated by your book I can feel joy when helping others.
Overall, I think that your book is a great inspiration and could bring out out the good side in people all around the world.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Darby Tarlow and I thought your book The Paper bag Christmas was very uniqueand interesting. When Mrs. Kimball told the class about your book and that we were going to read it, I thought it would be another dull, uneventful school book, but was pleasantly supprised with the plot and the quality of the writing.
One thing that I thought made the book really good was that I could to the characters . For example, when I was Mo's age I too wanted every single thing that I saw in every toy commercial that I saw;but when it was finally Christmas time and I had gotten some of the toys that I had asked for I was always dissapointed that I hadn't gotten all of the things on my list. Also I would play with them for one day but by the next morning would forget that it even existed. Another thing that I enjoyed about your story was the mystery about Santa Clause. It added suspense and made a satisfying climax.
Thank you for reading this letter, and I hope to read more of your books in the future.

Yours truly,
Darby Tarlow

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Darby Tarlow and I thought your book The Paper bag Christmas was very uniqueand interesting. When Mrs. Kimball told the class about your book and that we were going to read it, I thought it would be another dull, uneventful school book, but was pleasantly supprised with the plot and the quality of the writing.
One thing that I thought made the book really good was that I could to the characters . For example, when I was Mo's age I too wanted every single thing that I saw in every toy commercial that I saw;but when it was finally Christmas time and I had gotten some of the toys that I had asked for I was always dissapointed that I hadn't gotten all of the things on my list. Also I would play with them for one day but by the next morning would forget that it even existed. Another thing that I enjoyed about your story was the mystery about Santa Clause. It added suspense and made a satisfying climax.
Thank you for reading this letter, and I hope to read more of your books in the future.

Yours truly,
Darby Tarlow

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hello, my name is Spencer Moskowitz and I am in Mrs. Kimball's seventh grade English class. We read one of your books, The Paper Bag Christmas, before our holiday vacation, and I found it very interesting.
One of the many characteristics of your book that I liked was the eloquent way you blended in foreshadowing into your story. Another way that your book pleased me was with the deep feeling that was felt by the many different characters in your story.
Your book made me think a lot more about the importance of my family. I now pay more attention to my family's feelings and try not to leave any bad memories with them about me. My behavior around them has also improved. The Paper Bag Christmas is an important book because it gives us many different messages. One of the messages in your book is to serve others in need. If everyone in our world served others who needed the help, our world would be a much better place.
I appreciate you taking the time to read this. Reading your book was very fun for me. I hope you continue your career as an author.

Yours truly,
Spencer Moskowitz

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hello, my name is Jordan and The Paper Bag Christmas was a very inspiring and touching book to me. The intensity of some of the scenes in this book were so touching and deep, that it made me feel as if I was there, at the exact moment watching it.
I felt that the most descriptive part of the book, and my favorite, was at the end, when all of the angels are on stage and Katrina and Mo walked across stage in their paper bags and went to see Baby Jesus. Another really descriptive scene in the book was when Katrina and Mo were gurney racing, and Mo broke his arm. As they were falling and Mo broke his arm, I cringed in pain as if it was happening to me.
From reading this book, it has taught me the importance of friends and family. Without my friends and my family, I wouldn't be who I am today. Also, I have changes since finishing this book. Now, I think about how I can help others before helping myself, and I now know that the true meaning of the holidays isn't about what you receive, but whom you spend it with and how you can make it better for someone else.
I thank you for writing such a touching and amazing book, which was kid of like a wake-up call to me. The Paper Bag Christmas made me thankful for my family and all of my caring friends.
Yours truly,
Jordan Cohen

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
My name is Sanam Le'a Tiffany and I am twelve wonderful Christmases old. Reading the Paperbag Christmas, it felt more pure and true than other Christmas stories that all end up happy. Unfortunatly, reality doesn't always correspong with happiness. Thus, I am very happy for a wonderful and true-to-heart story like the Paperbag Christmas.
The Paperbag Christmas was a unique departure from the average and traditional Santa stories. It helped everyone to take a moment to truly grasp the meaning of the holidays. I think it's rare that a book can do that to people. so I applaud you for being an outstanding author. I also think that the read time was a good length. It's not a very long book, but it has enough detail to keep you enthralled. I never once counted the pages waiting to be read; I was too emersed in the well-scripted words to bother with numbers.
I've always felt I grasped the true meaning of the holidays. It was the one time my grandma would pack all her medications and sleep over. The times I could get my foreign aunts to hop on a plane and visit us for the first time in years. It was always to me a time of love, when nobody is allowed to get mad at each other. This book was a beautiful reminder, though, of how being united over the holidays is more important than an Air Jammer Road Rammer. My friends and family are the world to me. As a mark of the holidays, I volunteered one Tuesday to help set up apartments for people who have come from the streets or bad homes. Help them to get back on their feet. The book inspired me to not just say, but do.
Thank you for a wonderful book and many fun moments with my classmates.

Yours truly,
Sanam Tiffany

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne

My name is Henry Weddle; I am a seventh grade student at A.E.Wright Middle School. I enjoyed your book, The Paper Bag Christmas. My favorite seane in the book is the afamed gurney race.

I liked that specific sceane because it was full of suspense, action, and meaning. Also it seemed as a point in the story of high tension and excitement.

The book taught me to put others before myself and to preform community service for the less fortunate. To me my friends, family, and school work are very important in my daily life.

From
Henry weddle

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hi, Mr. Milne! My name is Lindsay Feder, and I am in Mrs. Kimball's English language arts class. During December, we read The Paper Bag Christmas. To read The Paper Bag Christmas is an opportunity I'm glad I didn't miss.

In The Paper Bag Christmas, there was more than one feeling you felt while reading it. At times it makes you smile, and then at others it makes you cry. I didn't know I could actually cry from reading a book until I read this. My favorite part in the book, was at the Christmas pageant when everyone felt compassionate towards each other. Even Nurse Wimble started singing "Silent Night" when Katrina gave up her bag.

When we finished reading the book, I felt like I wanted to do something to help others. I wanted to start doing volunteer work, and working at the childrens hospital the way Molar and Aaron did. I started realizing how much I use the words "I want" in my life. Now, I'm more self-consious about what I ask for. I realize now what the true meaning of Christmas is.

I look forward to reading more of your books. I really enjoyed reading The Paper Bag Christmas.

Sincerely,
Lindsay Feder

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Riley Gibson and I am from Mrs. Kimball's seventh-grade language arts class. We read The Paper Bag Christmas around the holiday season a few weeks ago. My classmates and I agree that it was a really great and meaningful book.
I liked The Paper Bag Christmas for several reasons. Many people don't understand the true meaning of Christmas. I especially enjoyed that you included that topic in the book because it's true. Another reason I was interested in the book was that I could really connect with the characters. They all seemed so realistic and it made me think about the people who really are like Katrina and Madhu.
Since I have read your book I have changed. On Christmas Eve I found that I wasn't all that excited about the gifts like I had been years before. I was happy enough to see my family members and friends. Also, your book made me rethink what to put on my Christmas list, or if I wanted to put anything at all. I believe the importance of The Paper Bag Christmas was to teach people what I learned; appreciate what you have and be thankful for even being healthy. The book makes you realize that there are people who stay in the hospital on Christmas and may stay there for the remainder of their life.
Overall, I have learned valuable lessons from your book and loved it. I think that it would be great for any child, or adult, to receive the gift Dr. Ringle gave the brothers. I hope you had a happy holiday yourself.

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Remy Dennis and I was assigned your book to read as part of my curriculum. I thought it was a great read.The Paper Bag Christmas was a very touching story.

I thought The Paper Bag Christmas was a wonderful story and one that really made you think about the true meaning of Christmas.One thing that really appealed to me were the characters.They were really realistic and easy to imagine because of the way they acted towards certain things. they were also a lot of fun, especially Madhu. Another thing I liked was the way you portrayed the meaning of the book.

Family, friends, and helping others are very important. It's important because everyone need family and friends. Also it does everyone good to help others not just themselves.I will help others by doing chores around the house or doing jobs for them. I could also look after other people's pets or get their mail while they are away.

I think The Paper Bag Christmas would make a great movie.

Yours Truly,
Remy Dennis

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Molly Goldring. I am a seventh grader who attends A. E. Wright Middle School. In my language arts class my teacher, Mrs. Kimball, read aloud in class your book, The Paper Bag Christmas. I truly enjoyed the with its heart-felt thrills and life changing experiences for Mo and Aaron.
I have to say my favorite part of the book is when Mo races Katrina down that slippery hallway strapped in on gurneys. I felt it was at that moment that Mo and Katrina would soon be friends. My second favorite episode of the book is when Mo stood up for Katrina at the near end of the book. Since Katrina's surgeries, she has felt self-conscious of her image. She stuck a paper bag over her head and hid in misery. It was in time of the big show at the pageant and Katrina felt she couldn't fulfill her part as an angel because of her paper bag, however she insisted on keeping it on. Mo did what he felt was right, and stuck them on everyone's faces just so Katrina would fit in. I believe that was wonderful writing.
After reading your book, I have found the true meaning of Christmas: Love, family, friends, and happiness. It's not about the gifts and money, but the simple pleasure of spending time with your loved ones and those surrounding you. Also from watching the bond between Mo and Katrina grow with every page I flipped, I discovered how a friendship should look, feel, and be like. Give all that you've got and love every moment spent with your friends.
Thank you for writing this heart-warming book. The pleasure has surly been mine since there was never a bore or unpleasant part or scene in your novel.
Yours truly,
Molly Goldring

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

We have just read The Paper Bag Christmas in Mrs. Kimball's language arts class. Your book taught me so much about life and the true meaning of Christmas. Reading this book was very enjoyable.
There are many reasons why this book is one of my favorites. I adore it because of its thrilling climax. My fingers couldn't wait to turn the page of every lively cliffhanger. There was always questions left after each chapter. Such as when Mo first met Dr. Ringle as Santa Claus. He was supposed to meet somewhere and dress like an elf, but we didn't know where. Another reason I liked the book is because of all the friendship between the characters. Imagining Katrina and Mo's friendship through good times and bad times was something very clear to picture. Even thought it was sad when Katrina died, it showed how much kindness and love she had to share with others. Thats is the true meaning of Christmas.
The Paper Bag Christmas really changed the way I saw Christmas. When I received a present this year, instead of only saying thank you, I wrote then a meaningful card on how much I appreciated their gesture. Also I realized how fortunate I am and didn't ask for a lot this year. Focusing on more giving that getting made this year feel like a true Christmas.Your book is very important, because with it you can spread this message to others. I hope this book's meaning lives on forever and can teach people the good and warmth that is embedded between Christmas.
Again, it was a joy reading The Paper Bag Christmas. I would really like to see this as a movie.

Yours truly,
Katie Dawes

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Josh Gabay, and I live in Calabasas, California. I am a 7th grader in Mrs. Kimball's English Language Arts class. As you may have known, Mrs. Kimball's classroom has read your amazing holiday book The Paper Bag Christmas and taught many of the students (including me) about the true meaning of Christmas. The Paper Bag Christmas is truly a heartwarming and page-turning novel, and I would give this astonishing book two thumbs up.
In The Paper Bag Christmas, I liked the interesting quotes in the beginning of every chapter because each quote was a step closer to knowing the true meaning of Christmas. When I thought hard enough to notice the true meaning of Christmas, I recognized it was the importance of family, friendship, and serving others. I also admired the beautiful new cover because it was full of pretty colors and included my favorite characters: Aaron, Mo, and Dr. Ringle (Santa Claus). My favorite part in the story was the Christmas pageant because it had some courageous and sad parts such as Katrina revealing her identity and when Madhu spoke to the audience about the gift of love.
On the other hand, I have changed since reading your magnificent book by adding more vivid vocabulary in my writing. Thanks to your book, I write better and receive better grades. When I read about the true meaning of Christmas, it inspired me to help and serve others. I will serve others by filling large baskets with goodies to the poor and participate in funds such as in school to help the sickness. Even though I have participated in many foundations in the past, it is always best to volunteer in a lot of funds to end world hunger, cure cancer and other diseases, provide shelter for the homeless, etc.
The Paper Bag Christmas is an astounding novel to read, and I will encourage others to read this touching book. It would be great if the book became a series and had another holiday story attached to it, for example, on Thanksgiving or 4th of July. Mr. Milne, it was a pleasure writing to a remarkable author who shared a tremendous novel to all. I wish your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Yours truly,
Josh Gabay

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hi, my name is Niki Zahedi from Mrs. Kimball's class. We recently read The Paper Bag Christmas, and it was truly amazing. I have read nothing like this breathtaking book.
One reason I fell in love with this book is because it's a perfect mix of friendship, family, and the special ingredient, a dab of sadness that touched my heart. The indestructible friendship Mo and Katrina shared was moving and sunk your heart into the book. My absolute favorite part is at the epilogue when Mo is married to Lynn and their tree topper is a figurine angel with a paper bag on its head. That is a piece of a true genius!
After reading this book I've learned that Christmas isn't about the goodies you get in your stockings or all the presents you get under your decorated tree, it's about the love and care you give and get to and from your family and friends. Your book signifies many ideal points such as the significance of giving to others without an expectation to receive something in return. It shows the power of believing and setting your mind to something.
I really hope you make a movie to The Paper Bag Christmas or a sequel to the book. I would definitely watch/read the book.
Yours truly,
Niki Zahedi

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne
My name is Anonymous, a student at A.E. Wright Middle School. I am an avid fan of your book The Paper Bag Christmas. I thought of it as a work of art. The details you added were fantastic and your story had an incredible plot. I felt that you had fascinating ideas. Your work had eloquence i extremely enjoyed.
In The Paper Bag Christmas I loved how you left the reader hanging making them have to read on. You made the book extremely interesting. When you stopped at a really high point of tension it forced me to want to keep reading. My favorite part about the book is the suspense you added. Overall, I enjoyed the whole book and everything about it.
Since reading your book, I have changed in a many number of ways. I appreciate my family much more and the vital things I have and many people don't have at all. In the book I learned that those kids in the hospital have nothing compared to what i have, and yet i still ask for more stuff. Also, in the book how they appreciate and love their family it showed me that i need to be more like them and love and respect my family a lot more. You taught me that money and toys aren't what is important its family, friendship, and helping others. From now on I am not going to ask for a lot more stuff instead I'm going to give back and help others not myself.
Mr. Milne, I think your book may be my favorite of all time. It was intriguing and suspenseful and I love every word of it. Reading this book makes me want to read all your others. I plan to read The Paper Bag Christmas again and again. Mr. Milne I think I love you.

Yours truly,
Anonymous

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Thank you for writing The Paper Bag Christmas. It has truly touched my classmates and myself enough to finally understand what the true meaning of Christmas is. My name is Halle and I'm in seventh grade, here at A.E. Wright Middle School. After my class and I began reading your book I immediately fell in love with Katrin and her paper bag.

Even after Katrina died, she continued to give; her liver to Madhu, Her bag to Mo, and her trust fund to the janitor/elf with the 'funny accent'. If I had to die, I would want to be able to do something for each of my friends and family who need help with something. I loved that even though she had gone through terrible things in her in her short life, she continued to do nice things for others. As the narrator for our class, I got goose bumps ans I read some of the heart-warming sentences out loud in your book, which proves how much I was moved by it.

Believe it or not, I think I have grown up a little since reading The Paper Bag Christmas. Reading your book was probably one of the things that will help me learn how to be a good person when I get older. Who knows maybe I'll volunteer at the hospital someday and help needy kids? Family is also one of the things that I have respected and card for a little more since reading your book. A few weeks ago my grandma asked me to help cook dinner for her birthday. Usually I would have made an excuse because I don't like cooking, but now I take the time to spend time with her because she might not have that much time left.

Again thank you Mr. Milne for writing your touching book, it taught me to relish everyday and that waking up is a present in itself.

Yours truly,
Halle Singer

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr Milne,
Hello, my name is Margaux Benèe Joelson, and I attend A.E Wright Middle School. I thought your book The Paper Bag Christmas was a heart warming tale that really shows the true meaning of Christmas. It brought tears to my eyes towards the end of the novel. I intend to recommend this book to all of my friends.
There are many different things I liked about the Paper Bag Christmas. One of those things is Molar and Aron's wants in the beginning of the novel, and over time at the hospital their wants begin to change. The boys begin to lose their greedy edge and begin to think of the friends they have made at the hospital, some with terminal illnesses like Katrina. I also enjoyed Madhu's enthusiasm throughout the book. Even thoughhe was weakened due to a cancerous liver, he was in full spirit and very very talkative. He never seemed unhappy, but he seemed most happy when Molar and Aron came to visit.
The Paper Bag Christmas has truly changed my out look on life. It shows to be grateful for my good health. The book shows me strong friendship and I hope that I have friendships like that in the future. As Aron and Molar have provided service to others I am now motivated to do the same. I am going to arrange more community service projects with my girl scout troop so we can all take part.
I really enjoyed reading your novel and I hope you have a Happy New Year.

Your friend,
Margaux Benèe Joelson

Anonymous said...

Dear. Mr. Milne,
My name is Victoria Te, a seventh grader of A.E. Wright Middle School, and I would like you to know that your book The Paper Bag Christmas is an excellent book for children and adults of all ages should read! Your book can warm one another's heart.
In The Paper Bag Christmas, I liked a lot of parts that happened in the book, but there are some that I liked most. When Mo and Aaron went to the mall with their parents to see "Santa Claus," they get a big surprise! After the line stopped for seeing Santa, he let Mo and Aaron come inside his shack and talk to him. It was really funny when Mo screamed when he sat on his lap, whose name was actually Dr. Christopher K. Ringle, and I liked that part because that's when Mo and Aaron's adventure begins when Dr. Ringle gave them an address which turns out to be a hospital. My other favorite part of the book was the Christmas Pageant, when Katrina took off her white paper bag that was on her head for many, many, months. Everyone in the room was surprised and silent. Even I was too. Sure, she looked pretty bad, but for Mo, it doesn't really matter what you look on the outside, it is what counts from the inside. I'm glad that Katrina took off her paper bag, and I'm sure that she must have had a lot of courage to do it.
Ever since I have read the read the book, I began to realize that there is only on important thing that can fulfill one's Christmas present/ list: love from family and friends. I just realized that because I imagined if I were Katrina: all alone in my hospital room with no friends (well except for maybe Madhu and Dr. Ringle) and no family. I would be sad and not really care for gifts, I would just want a friend to play and hang with everyday. The importance of your book really has a message to tell the readers: All the cool and wonderful things like toys, dolls, and electronic stuff don't really matter to you. For the people who gave them to you, guess what they had with them. Love. Yes, and after all those adventures with Mo Aaron, and Madhu, Katrina had finally gotten what she really wanted all along which are new friends and love.
The Paper Bag Christmas was one of the heart-filled books I have ever read. I would be really nice if people read it and if it was a movie! Then everyone would know the real importance of Christmas. i hope that Mo will never forget the story of his first real Christmas and pass it on and on.
Yours truly,
Victoria Te

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne
My name is Ryan Armstrong. I am a seventh grader at A.E. Wright Middle School. I really enjoyed The Paper Bag Christmas.
I enjoyed the book for many reasons. One reason I liked it is because it was about kids. A lot of books are about adults and are harder to keep interest. Another reason I thought it was a good book is because it had some mystery to it. There were many clues that Dr. Ringle is Santa Claus but you never know if it is true.
Your book has a lot of importance to it's meaning. It shows the true meaning if Christmas and friendship. Since I have read this book, I have changed in many ways.
I've learned to be nice to everyone even if they are different. I've also learned to be more generous and less greedy.
Thank you for teaching me all of these valuable lessons.

Sincerely,
Ryan Armstrong

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Alex Alon, and my language arts class recently finished reading your marvelous book The Paperbag Christmas. After reading that amazing novel, I have learned so much and am forever fascinated with the story.
I liked so many things in the novel that I can't even count, yet I will tell a few. This story made me fill up with emotions and excitement, making me always want to know what is next and the answers to questions within the story itself. It also made me understand the true meaning of standing up for someone, just like Lynn did for Katrina when she was being made fun of.
This great book has changed me by making me realize what a true friend is and how I can become a true friend to those in need of one. I believe the importance of your book is that serving others, in a matter big or small, is an honor, not a command and that the greatest gift is happiness and joy to the world.
Your story has been a magical journey for me and I shall continue showing my consideration by doing just as Aaron and Mo have.

Yours truly
Alex Alon

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hello! My name is Kyle Sparrman. I read your book, The Paper Bag Christmas recently with my class, and I truly loved it!
In your book, I enjoyed experiencing how honest your characters are, especially Katrina. After everything she's been through, she still remains strong, and that's the kind of person I've always wanted to be. Also, I love the detail you put into your backgrounds instead of just letting them be unimportant. For example, describing the background of Molar and Aaron outside of just when they help Dr. Ringle was very interesting to me because when I read a book, I like to know where the characters come from.
Since I've read the book, I have emotionally changed as a person. I know I will always try to find the friend in people instead of the enemy, nor will I judge a person based on what they are on the outside, but what they are in their heart. Now that I have finished your book, the meaning of family, friendship, and serving others has a whole new meaning to me. Family and friendship is not something to be taken for granted, and can be lost at anytime, anywhere. Serving others is one of the most important actions a person can do, and so I am prepared to take my place in helping others when they are in need.
Mr. Milne, The Paper Bag Christmas has really changed my life, and I'd like it to change others, too. Have you considered making it into a movie? I hope so, because you can count on me to be the first in line to see it.


Yours truly,

Kyle Sparrman

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
I am Jack Korchek and I am a student at A E Wright Middle School.I thought that your book was amazing and it really showed the true meaning of Christmas.
There are a lot of reasons why i liked your The Paper Bag Christmas, but two biggest reasons are that every chapter left you wanting to read the next one and made you feel like reading the whole entire day.The next reason was that it taught me the real meaning of Christmas.
I have changed after reading the book by helping others and not making Christmas all about getting presents more about giving presents.Also everyone needs a friend because people get lonely.
I think you should make a sequel because I loved the book and I think everyone would read it.


Yours truly,
Jack Korchek

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
I am Jack Korchek and I am a student at A E Wright Middle School.I thought that your book was amazing and it really showed the true meaning of Christmas.
There are a lot of reasons why i liked your The Paper Bag Christmas, but two biggest reasons are that every chapter left you wanting to read the next one and made you feel like reading the whole entire day.The next reason was that it taught me the real meaning of Christmas.
I have changed after reading the book by helping others and not making Christmas all about getting presents more about giving presents.Also everyone needs a friend because people get lonely.
I think you should make a sequel because I loved the book and I think everyone would read it.


Yours truly,
Jack Korchek

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

Hi, my name Amanda Mihalovich, and I'm a seventh-grader at A.E Wright Middle School. Reading books is an activity I love to do. The types of books I usually read are fantasy and science fiction books. The Paper Bag Christmas was a very different book than the kinds I usually read, but I enjoyed reading it. It was a great book to read, although I wash Katrina hadn't died.
The friendships of Katrina, Mo, Madhu, and Aaron had were nice to read about. Katrina and Madhu were in the hospital with cancer and they probably got very lonely without friends. Another thing I liked about this story is that Mo's children get to go through the same thing Mo and Aaron did. They get to go to the mall to go see Santa, who is Dr. Ringle. Mo's children get to learn the true meaning of Christmas.
This summer, I get to help at a veteran's hospital in West Los Angeles. I don't know what I'll do there, but I'll be glad to do anything because it will help the patients. If someone read The Paper Bag Christmas, it will make them think more about others than they might have otherwise. Once people start thinking, they are more likely to take action and do good things for others.
I hope you continue writing books. Since I enjoyed The Paper Bag Christmas, I can't wait to read more of the books you've written!

Sincerely,
Amanda Mihalovich

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My mane is Ansh and I am a seventh grade student at Arthur E, Wright Middle school. Our class read your book and also enacted it. Your book reflects the true meaning of Christmas and it really got us in the Christmas spirit.

I liked your book because it was very realistic, and I felt like I got to know the characters as if I was there during all this. I also liked how you started each chapter with a quote. After each chapter, you would leave some suspense and we all wanted to take our books home, but out teacher said we would read the whole book in one night if she let us take it home. When Madhu said his gift would be "Splendid indeed" and you ended the chapter, I was dying to find out what gift he would present to baby Jesus. I just loved the suspense you created! I even went online and tried to look it up!

After reading your book, I realized, new Ipods, Wii games and just stupid little toys are insignificant compared to a good friend. Games will break and stop working but a true friend will always be on your side when you need them the most. Friendship is the best gift anyone could receive and although I have a lot of nice friends, there never seems to be too many. Your book works because teaches us readers about the true meaning of Christmas and that it is better to give, than receive.

Our entire class really enjoyed your book and you've probably heard this suggestion in letters you have read before mine and your going to hear it again. Our class thinks you should make your novel into a movie or make a sequel. Keep writing!

Sincerely, Ansh Tina

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne
Hi, my name is Alex Ansari, and I'm a seventh grader at A.E. Wright. My language arts teacher, Ms. Kimball, had us read your book The Paper bag Christmas. After reading The Paper Bag Christmas, I thought to myself, that I would have to read all of your books if they were that good. (coming from someone who is not a big fan of reading)
One reason that I liked The Paper Bag Christmas is because it was a heartwarming story about a group of friends finding out the true meaning of Christmas, through some sad times and happy times. Another reason that I liked The Paper Bag Christmas is that it taught me a couple of things throughout the book, like sticking up for your friends no matter how the situation looks. Also to always find the best in people, because even if they seem mean you might not know what they're going through.
In my opinion the importance of The Paper Bag Christmas is show people that all you need for Christmas and in life is friends and family who care about you, and for you to give them the same. Now I understand that the importance of friends and family is to cheer you up when your down and to always be there for you. Also the same goes with serving others whether you are the friend or the family, you should always be there for them and to always cheer them up.
Reading your book was a pleasure, and I will definitely refer it to other people.Thank you for writing this book.

Yours truly
Alex Ansari

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
I am Juliet Risko, a seventh grader at A.E.Wright Middle school. My class and I just read your book, The Paper Bag Christmas, and it is the best book with the most meaning I have read.
True meaning is connecting with the reader and reaching their heart. The Paper Bag Christmas shoots the message across of love, friendship and coming together no matter what you look like, believe in, or act like. All of this love and friendship make readers all over the world,including myself, feel connected to the book.
The Paper Bag Christmas has changed me by showing the true meaning of friendship and love. Even though Katrina had a bag over her head because of all of her scars from operations, Mahdu wasn't Christian and didn't believe in the Three Wise Men,and Molar didn't believe in Santa Clause anymore, the three were able to form an unbreakable friendship and discover the surprising truth about Dr.K.Ringle. It shows that family, friendship, and serving others is far more important than a trampoline and all of the toys in the toy store. Toys will last for a few minutes of your own happiness, but helping others will make you happy, warm the hearts of others around you, and bring an unforgettable memory of joy to that person. Now, because of your example, I want to help and serve others by adopting families, giving to others at Christmas, and participate in community services in my neighborhood.
I hope you continue writing to set the examples of friendship and love for many others as you did for me.
Sincerely,
Juliet Risko

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
Hi, my name is Yoni Bork, I am a seventh grader at Arthur A. Wright Middle School. My English/Language Arts class and I have just finished reading your book, The paper Bag Christmas. The day we finished, my teacher, Mrs. Kimball, handed out white paper bags and candy canes as a symbolic holiday gift. We each drew a picture from our favorite scene from your book. Mine was when everyone received his/her Christmas gifts in the end. I love your book, and so do many of my classmates.
I love your book because it offers such a great story about the true meaning of Christmas. It shows that Christmas is not about material objects, but about love and giving. I think you wanted to make sure that everybody knows that friends and family are much more important than the newest ipod. I think your book also has great characters. I like Aaron's leadership and his ability to improvise. I admire Mo's compassion for Katrina and the way he always looks at everything optimistically. I think the ongoing suspicion of Dr. Ringle possibly being Santa Claus and all of the clues Timothy finds. I like the transformation of Madhu's belief in Christmas. I especially admire Katrina's strength and courage about herself. She isn't afraid of anything.
I think your book is very important because the world must never forget the true meaning of Christmas. The paper Bag Christmas is helping the true spirit of Christmas live on by teaching about friendship and compassion. This book has definately moved me by teaching me that in the end, objects hardly matter, it's one's family and close friends that matter. I would be devastated if I lost one of my parents or one of my close friends, and I would give anything to keep the healthy and alive.
I look forward to reading your other books, and I really liked the new cover for The paper Bag Christmas. It is much more colorful than the old cover, and I hope your other books are as good as this one was. You have taught me a great lesson about the true meaning of Christmas, that love and friendship are way more important than anything I could put on a Christmas list. Keep writing!
Merry Christmas,
Yoni Bork

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Miline,
My name is Honey Ghaderi and I have just finished reading your book “The Paper Bag Christmas.” I found this book very touching and educational. Most kids don’t know the meaning of Christmas, and I’m glad that we had the opportunity to learn a lesson that’s very useful throughout our lives.
Some of the thing that I thought were interesting were some of the quotes, one in particular was, “the only gift is a portion of thyself”-Ralph Waldo Emerson. Who was an American philosopher and poet, the meaning of this is reminding you the best gift to someone is to remind them how special they are, it’s not the money it’s the meaning. Another very interesting thing I learned was to not be selfish and to be a giving person, but most importantly appreciate what you have and you wonderful and healthy lives.
I have learned so much with thanks to my teachers and “Paper Bag Christmas.” I’ve learned the importance of family, friendship, and serving others. By serving others I will help the unfortunate, be generous to others, helpful, and great citizen. I’ve changed after reading this because now I know the importance of serving others and appreciating my life.
I am very thankful and to have learned and disgusted with my classmates the meaning of your sensational book. I thank you and hope for other kids to get the message and lesson that I had learned reading your book. As you can tell I really enjoyed reading your book, and I’m thankful to have been taught the true magic of Christmas
Yours truly,

Honey Ghaderi

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Happy Holidays! My name is Melanie Sklar and I am in Ms. Kimball's 5th period class. The Paper Bag Christmas was a great book. Reading the book really changed my perspective on things that I know will help me to be a better person.
Reading the Paper Bag Christmas was very inspiring! I really liked the book because of two things. It was heart warming and realloy taught a gret lesson about tru friendship. It was a great holiday book that I hope Ms. Kimball reads with her classes for the rest of her teaching career and even with her family. The book also taught me about true friends. Just learining about Mo and Katrina and how the started in the beginning and how they ended showed me what friends are really about.
This book also taught me about the importance of famil and serving others. I love spendiing time with my family especially around the holidays. We always have to make time in our busy lives to spend time together, and sometimes I'd rather be with friends but now I know how short life is and that you should make the most of it. The Paper Bag Christmas also showed me how Mo and Aaron served others by spending time at the Children's Hospital. They also made true friends while serving others. They changed some of the children's lives and I wish to do the same. Right now I'm actually saving and collecting money to donate money to donate to The Save A Child's Heart foundation located in Israel. This foundation helps kids from all over the world get surgery for their heart condition.
I really enjoyed reading The Paper Bag Christmas. I'm going to try to find time to go to a children's hospital and maybe find a true friend like Mo and Aaron did in your story. I really do hope that other kids start to read this book and feel the same way I do. Hopefully as everyone reads the book we caan change the world.
Yours truly,
Melanie Sklar

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
Hi,my name is Pearl Rubin I'm a 6th grader at AE Wright middle
school. The Paper Bag Christmas was about two children learning
the true meaning of Christmas and how they managed to help others
by giving them hope and friendship.
There are many reasons why I like the book, The Paper Bag Christmas,
but I'm only going to tell you two reasons. The first reason is that
this book had a great and powerful effect on me that taught me the
importance of giving to others rather than receiving. The second
reason is to be kind and thoughtful and giving to those in need
After reading this book I have learned the importance of family
and friends, and helping them and others who need it. This has changed
me for the better because I do like to give. Mr.Milne's book is important
because it makes one realize how important giving is.
I really hope many more people read this book and get out of it what
I did, which was how important giving,caring and the true meaning of what
christmas is all about.


Yours truly,
Pearl Rubin

Anonymous said...

Sorry about the post before I had a problem saving my final draft and didn’t know until I posted my rough draft on your blog. Please take this as my letter to you. Thank you.

Dear Mr. Milne,
It is an enormous honor to be writing to the genius who wrote The Paper Bag Christmas. My name is Natalie Yakobain, and I am currently attending A.E. Wright Middle School, where in our langue arts class we have completed reading your book. I must profess to you that I was skeptical about reading a book about Christmas being Jewish. Coincidentally though the summary entranced me, and sparked my interests in the book. By reading it I learned (from Muddu especially) that it doesn’t matter what religion but what you choose to do and how you treat people. This extraordinary book teaches an important life lesson that adolescents in middle school, such as my classmates and I, sometimes need to be reminded of.
One of my favorite parts of this book was how Katrina grows. Before she was so unconfident, sure that nobody would ever like her, but then she finds a friend. I loved the way you made Molar be patient with her, how he told her she was beautiful especially on the outside, and how he was determined to give her a chance to act in a play. The way you wrote it really made you get a feel for the characters. I felt Katrina’s sorrow and joy, and Mo everlasting resolve to help her. Another beloved part of your story was the end. I very much enjoyed seeing Mo grown up and married to the endearing Lynn. In the end you also showed how history repeats itself. Now Molar will enrich his children’s lives, and from my hypothesis the will do the same to their children, and so forth. The book gave me a overall feeling of contentment. One of those moments where you feel like the sun is warming your whole soul, with the slightest whisper of the cold wind of sorrow and lost.
Your book is such an importance because it is a wake up call to not judge people. It shows us that just because we may look different, it’s the values and the impressions that we leave behind as memories. Your book sshows us the “don’t judge a book by its cover” saying, a lesson we have been taught countless of times none like this, is true. We have never really seen the big picture of how people suffer and how good our life’s are, but your book highlights it for us to see. One of your book lessons was of the importance of family, friendship, and serving others. This is key lesson to everyone, because what life really boils down to is not what people think of you, or how you look, its family, friends, and helping others. Your book reminds us of this.
I just want to thank you for writing this book. You reminded of key qualities to have, not to judge people for looks or religion, and the true beauty of friendship. Thank you.
Yours truly,

Natalie Yakobian

Anonymous said...

Hi my name is Theo. I live in Woodland Hills California. I like music, movies, video games, and books such as the paper bag Christmas. I absolutely loved your book. Normally I hate doing these book projects where we read the book and have to take tests on it, but after reading the first chapter of the book, all I wanted to do was read more. This book was very cheerful and left me teary eyed but was the kind of story you don’t see often.

Two reasons why I loved your book were that the characters were so joyful to read about. I loved Madhu because he was very humorous when ever he spoke. Even though he had a liver problem and had the chance of dying, he was still the joyful boy he was before. I also loved in your book, the felling of the Christmas spirit. The feeling shows people how the spirit of Christmas isn’t all about presents and gift giving. It’s about the privileges in life you are given, such as family, friends and health.

This has changed me in several ways. Last year I expected everything in my stocking/presents. Now I’m glad for the very little things I’m given. I’m glad that my family is very healthy. This book has shown me that Christmas isn’t all about gifts, it’s about family. Family and friends are very important to me because the make me who I am today. The paper bag Christmas was such and inspiring book, and I hope that one day movie rights will be given to the book so that teens won’t be hooked on vampires and will be hooked friendship and spirit.

Anonymous said...

Yours truly

Theo Buckwald

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,
Hi,my name is Pearl Rubin I'm a 7th grader at AE Wright middle
school. The Paper Bag Christmas was about two children learning
the true meaning of Christmas and how they managed to help others
by giving them hope and friendship.
There are many reasons why I like the book, The Paper Bag Christmas,
but I'm only going to tell you two reasons. The first reason is that
this book had a great and powerful effect on me that taught me the
importance of giving to others rather than receiving. The second
reason is to be kind and thoughtful and giving to those in need
After reading this book I have learned the importance of family
and friends, and helping them and others who need it. This has changed
me for the better because I do like to give. Mr.Milne's book is important
because it makes one realize how important giving is.
I really hope many more people read this book and get out of it what
I did, which was how important giving,caring and the true meaning of what
christmas is all about.


Yours truly,
Pearl Rubin sorry about the last letter that said I was in 6th grade I really dont know what I was thinking

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Jeffery Garces and I really enjoyed your book "The Paper Bag Christmas". It was funny, sad, and heart warming. I honestly don't like reading, but this book made me want to keep reading and reading.
I felt like I changed after I read the book. On Christmas I usually just think about the presents, but this year I was just making sure I had great time with my whole family. I have never really thought about how important my family and friends are. I am really thankful I read this book.
Thank you so much for making this book, it really made me think differently in life.

Yours truly,
Jeffery Garces

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr.Milne,

I am a student at AE Wright Middle school. I am 13 years old and I love your book. It thought me a lot I never thought how lucky I was. So many kids would die for the things I have, and now I know that I have to be thankful for what I have, and I know I will. So all i want to say is that you have really have changed the way I think about life and how lucky many of us are so thank you.

Yours Truly,
David Behzadi A.K.A THE238HONDARIDER

Anonymous said...

Dear mr. Milne,
My name is Lexi, from A.E. Wright middle School and my class and I just finished reading the Paper Bag Christmas. This book is one of my favorite books. Below i will tell you some of the reasons why and also how this book affected me.

I loved the characters the most in your book, but Mo was mostly my favorite. I love how Mo learned to become a nice person, I mean he was always nice, but he learned to be nicer to the people who have less.

This book has taught me to respect my elders and to also care for others a little more. Now i go to the food bank every saturday to help out.this book has taught me alot.

This book means more to me now that i've read it. I hope i turn out helping more and more a day. After looking at it you wrote one amazing book Mr. Milne. Thank you for reading my letter.

Yours truly,
Alexis Erdos-Major

love cupcake said...

oh yeah you rocked the house with that book Mr. M! keep rocken out dude!
love me always!!
please love ME!

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hello, my name is Josh and I am currently in seventh grade AE Wright Middle School. Even though it was your first novel I truly thought your novel The Paper Bag Christmas was extraordinary.
What I truly loved about The Paper Bag Christmas was the story. Another thing I loved was the description. It was amazing how you described Katrina when she takes off her paper bag. I also loved the morals of how to treat and respect others just like when Mo says Katrina was beautiful to make her feel better.
I truly think the morals of the story changed me since I’ve read the book. I have now learned to respect everyone as much as I can to the fullest. Whether I am talking to one of my friends or helping someone out of bed, I think of The Paper Bag Christmas’ morals and how it has changed me.



Sincerely,

Josh Masjedi

Anonymous said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
his protector said...

hey dude who wrote "oh.... wow....you...wrote a book...
OMG....not really a big deal!!!"
your lame you know that!!! i had all my friends read this and they agree you big jerk face!!!

michel greec said...

Yeah his protector is right you are a big jerk face!!!

Anonymous said...

HEY ITS ME THE BIG JERK FACE.... YEAH UM MICHEL ITS ME YOUR BEST FRIEND!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

michel greec said...

OH.....UM DUDE SO...UM SORRY...UM SEE YOU LATER HUH...?

his protector said...

HEY YOU, BIG JERK FACE, YOU DIDNT WRITE YOUR NAME SO HE DIDNT KNOW SO SHUT UP AND DONT SAY ANYTHING!!!

love cupcake said...

WOW you people arent even talking about Mr. M. Why dont we just stop and talk about how cool Mr. M is!!!

Patricia said...

Mr. Milne is not a good subject to talk about....!!!!

Ronald said...

Then why are you on his blog?

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Lindsey Rooney. I am enjoying my year at A.E. Wright Middle School as a seventh grader. My language arts class read your story, The Paper Bag Christmas, and I was amazed by it. This book is very heartwarming. My favorite part of The Paper Bag Christmas is the poem at the beginning of chapter two, “when we were children we were grateful to those who filled our stockings at Christmas time. Why are we not grateful to God for filling our stockings with legs?”
The Paper Bag Christmas has many good morals, which is one thing I liked about this story. At the beginning of every chapter, there is a nice riddle that only some can understand. These riddles help people seek the true meaning of Christmas. I also like how the story ends with a twist. Even though sweet Katrina Barlow passes away, Molar finds a way to remind himself of her every Christmas. He makes it a tradition to put Katrina’s paper bag over the angel on the very top of his Christmas tree. I know it is a sad reminder, but this tradition helps Molar to never forget all the joy he brought to the sick children that year.
After reading The Paper Bag Christmas I feel the need to enjoy my time with my family while I still have them around. It is a scary thought of moving away to college and leaving your best friends behind, but we all should enjoy life and help others to do the same. This Christmas, I placed the paper bag, given to me by Ms. Miller, underneath my Christmas tree to help me remember the true meaning of Christmas. The Paper Bag Christmas really gave me a reason to follow what Christmas is really about.
I really enjoyed reading your story, The Paper bag Christmas. You are a great author and will touch the lives of many people. The Paper Bag Christmas helped me find the true meaning of the holiday. I believe that this story made my 2009 holiday season very special.






Yours Truly,
Lindsey Rooney

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Hannah Bruehl and I’m a seventh grader at A.E. Wright Middle School. The Paper Bag Christmas was a special book to me because it had the meaning of Christmas. I liked how this book taught me the meaning of Christmas. I also liked reading this book because I too celebrate Christmas.
There were a lot of reasons I liked your book. A reason I liked the story, The paper Bag Christmas, was that it was like I was actually there seeing it happen. I also like how it makes you realize that giving is better than receiving. Last, I liked it when Madhu got a liver from Katrina.
After I read The Paper Bag Christmas, I gave more presents than I got and felt good about it. Your book made me think about loving your family and friends. I serve others at my church and one time we help the people at a mobile home park by doing gardening for them and repairing minor things around their homes. I’m glad I read your book because it made me want to do more for other people and it helped me to understand more about the meaning of Christmas.
I loved this book and I encourage other people to read it. I would like you to make more books like The Paper Bag Christmas because I enjoyed reading it a lot. Thank you for writing this awesome book and I hope to read more books of yours.
Yours truly,
Hannah Bruehl

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Nikobe, and I attend AE Wright Middle School. I am 13 years old, and I have three dogs, a cat, a bunny, and a horse. I am an avid reader, and I most recently devoured 8 books in three weeks. The book you wrote, The Paper Bag Christmas, was fantastic! I loved the heart-felt nature of your story.
First of all, I really enjoyed how real the characters seem. Your choice of words allowed me to totally feel how the Christmas spirit was slowly entering Molar’s thoughts. Sorry if I sound sappy, but that’s how I was feeling. Even though the story was simple and short, you managed to create a holiday classic. Secondly, I relished Katrina’s bad attitude at the beginning of the book. I was further drawn into the story as her tough shell started to melt as she got to know Molar. Another thought I had was how did you come up with the idea of using the paper bag? What was your inspiration?
I believe I have changed since reading your book. I now know the true meaning of Christmas. By interacting with Molar’s and Kristina’s story, I now know that Christmas isn’t about gifts, but rather about family, friendship, and loving one another. The importance of your book is tremendous, and can be seen especially in the unlikely but sweet bond built between two kids at very different places in life. If people all over the world read your book and took to heart your message about family, friendship, and love, the world would be a better place.
Once again, I have to say that your book was fabulous. The story had an easy flow, and when I was sucked in, I just couldn’t put the book down. Even though our teacher, Ms. Miller, told us not to read ahead, I of course had to (not because I’m a rule breaker but because I couldn’t wait to finish the book)!

Yours truly,

Nikobe

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hello my name is Sarika Sood and I attend A.E.Wright Middle School. I loved your book The Paper Bag Christmas. This book really showed me the true meaning of Christmas.
In The Paper Bag Christmas I was touched by how Lynn stood up for Katrina. Molar made Katrina realize that she is beautiful and not ugly. One of my favorite part was when Katrina donated her liver to Madhu. That showed the Christmas spirit of thoughtfulness and sharing.
The Paper bag Christmas also taught me that Christmas is not all about getting presents and material things, but its about giving and sharing. This book certainly made me more appreciative of all my blessings. I am grateful for being healthy, for my amazing, loving family. The Paper Bag Christmas has inspired me to do volunteer work and help those who don’t have everything like me. Thank you Mr.Milne for writing such a wonderful book. Also thank you for helping us middle schoolers realize that the world is not only about us. I am looking forward to reading more of your books!
Your’s Truly,
Sarika Sood

Patricia said...

rwell...um....

Anonymous said...

4029 Las Virgenes Road
Calabasas, CA91302
December 18, 2009

Dear Mr. Milne,


Hello. My name is Nuphar Ezra. I am a 12 year old girl in 7th grade. I go to A.E. Wright Middle School. My class has recently finished reading your book, The Paper Bag Christmas. Lots of students enjoyed you book and thought it was wonderful, touching, and, amazing, including me. It showed the true meaning of Christmas. Although I don’t celebrate Christmas, I still enjoyed it.

In The Paper Bag Christmas, I enjoyed the part when Molar and Aaron were at the Christmas pageant and Katrina was removing the bag on top of head, showing the audience her bruises, dents, stitches and little patches of hair on her head from the brain tumor. I also enjoyed the part when Dr. Ringle gives out gifts from Katrina to her friends. Madhu had gotten what he wanted, a liver, so then he can live with his family again. Molar had gotten her neatly, folded bag and her Christmas list wish all in a little box. The janitor had gotten all of his bills paid off. So everyone lived in a happily ever after.

After reading The Paper Bag Christmas, I have changed in the way I feel about Christmas. In the summer, I volunteered in my elementary school, Valley Beth Shalom Day School, to help out toddlers to read. It had reminded me about family, friendship, and serving others. Most children don’t have lots of stuff we have today because the parents think about there young first.

I had enjoyed you book very much and I hope you write more wonderful novels. This has given me another point of view on family, friendship, and serving others. I will also recommend other students, family, and friends to read this book.


Yours truly,




Nuphar Ezra

Anonymous said...

Wow!
you people did a good job!
but you put on too much!!!!!!
what is the point of the letters anyway?!

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hi, my name is Alyssa Kaplan. I am a seventh grader at A. E. Wright Middle School. For the December reading book, our teachers chose The Paper Bag Christmas. While reading this novel, I learned a lot about the holiday season. This book was not based on Christmas, but it was about the holiday spirit.
I really enjoyed reading The Paper Bag Christmas. One thing I enjoyed about this book, was that it had a really good message. It was not just about terminally ill children, or just about Christmas. It was much more then that. The book was a great example about what the holiday season is all about, and how it is not just about filling in the lines on your Christmas list. I also enjoyed reading about Katrina. She started out being a grumpy, unfriendly little girl. Until you took the time to really meet and get to know her. She had a lot of progression in this story. With all that she went through, I loved the end when she thought of Madhu, and giving him what he wanted for Christmas.
The importance of Mr. Milne’s book was that it showed just one example of how gifts are not at all the main part of the holidays. This novel taught a very good lesson to me; during the holidays is a great time to do for others. Hopefully people, who read this book, will get the message that is behind all the words.
Yours truly,

Alyssa Kaplan

Kashmir Braina Lall said...

Dear Kevin Milne,

Hello, my name is Kashmir Lall. I am a seventh grader at A.E. Wright Middle School. I really enjoyed your fantastic book that explains the real meaning of Christmas, not presents, but loving and caring about each other. Your book was amazing!!! Many students and all the Language Arts teachers were touched by your book. It brought many emotions to everyone. I really appreciated that you took your time to fully understand Christmas. Especially, if you Jewish or not. It doesn’t matter what religion you just have fun.

I enjoyed many things about your book. Well where I can start. I loved the book because the ill children took their day as it came and enjoyed while they could. Even though Katrina had no family and died sadly she knew that people who truly loved her and love is very important to everyone. Love, friendship, caring are many things that are very important in life.

Now that I read this book, I have really asked for very little less this year and there are more important things in life. I would give things to the needy that they need and I don’t. Without love, friends, and trust you aren’t complete at all. I would serve others by giving those clothes, food, water, and etc. I never where.

Kevin you are a pure genius to write this very meaningful book. You really know a true meaning of Christmas. I am so lucky for the things I have and not to ask for more. This truly is amazing and I am very happy not have any tragedies in my life and I am TRULY thankful for everything. <3<3<3

Yours truly,
Kashmir B. Lall

LUV your story sooooooooo much :D

Anonymous said...

4029 Las Virgenes Road
Calabasas, CA 91302
January 5, 2010


Dear Mr. Milne,

Hi. My name is David Uvaydov; I am currently in 7th grade and going to A.E.Wright Middle School. I enjoy reading and try to as much as I can in my spare time and on weekends. For a warp book (a book that we have to read and then take a test on), my class had to read the Paper Bag Christmas, which I greatly enjoyed. The book really influenced my life. I would like to share with you what I liked about the book and how it made me feel when I was done reading it.

I could go on endlessly with all the reasons I liked the book, but here are a couple of the main ones. First, Mo saw how lonely and sad Katrina was; he comforted her and soon enough became friends with her. She had learned to trust herself and have self-confidence because he told her that she wasn’t ugly. He explained that she was just a girl with a disease. Also, at the end of the play she gave away her most important and prized possession because she had pride in herself. Katrina took the paper bag off her head because she knew she wasn’t hideous looking. Lastly, it teaches that you don’t need a pile of presents for Christmas all you need is family, friendship, and serving others.

I think I changed greatly since reading the book and this is how. First, it makes me realize that all the things I put on my Hanukah list I don’t really need; their just stuff I want. For example, I need food, shelter, water, and family I don’t need video games and all the other junk I put on my list. All I need is my family and friends to love and support me throughout my life. Next, it makes me want to help others and do community service which I probably will start doing on weekends. That’s how the Paper Bag Christmas made me view the important things in life.

In conclusion, I think the Paper Bag Christmas made me look at things differently. Next, I think you are a very skilled author and should keep writing more of your life-changing books. Finally, thank you for writing this fantastic book. I think not only did you change my life, but lives of many others.

Yours Truly,



David Uvaydov

Joaquin Magpantay said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Joaquin Magpantay and I am in 7th grade. In my English Language Arts class I read the Paper Bag Christmas. I enjoyed reading it and it taught me the true meaning of Christmas. When katrina died i felt sad but happy she had one true friend, Mo.
Mo was my favorite character because he was so nice to Katrina and was a kind friend to her. My favorite part was when Katrina writes about how she doesn't need her kidney and tells Madhu that he can take it. Tim never gave up when he knew Dr. Ringle wasSanta Claus.
What I learned from this story was that Christmas is not all about gifts but spending time with your family and friends. I hope the kids who read this will think about your book.
Your book inspired us all and I hope you write another book as great as this one.
Yours Truly,
Joaquin Magpantay

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

I’m Madison Menyuk and I have recently read your book “The Paper Bag Christmas.” I wish more people read the book because I’m sure it will change the lives of many children and open their eyes to the real world. In my next two paragraphs I will explain why I liked the book, how I have changed, and the importance of friends, family, and how I will serve others.

To start off, I didn’t like your book, I LOVED it. I loved your book because I cried and smiled during the whole thing. I wanted to stop reading it because I was so sad but it was so interesting I needed to read more. When Katrina said her headaches have been going on for weeks I knew what was going to happen. I was ready to burst into tears. I also loved the book because it had a great meaning to it and I hope that one day everyone will read it and have the same reaction to it as I did. Thank you so much for making such a touching and marvelous book. It was so touching and it opened my eyes to what’s really going on in the world.

Here is how I changed after I read your great book. Since I read the book, every time I see a kid who’s in a wheel chair or has serious problems I cry so hard inside. At my elementary school there was a kid who had a problem, he had to wear braces on his ankles because he was born with his ankles all messed up. He would always smile and act like nothing was wrong but really on the inside I could tell there was a little boy crying and hating his life. He could barely run or jump and in P.E. no one wanted to be his partner because he could barely do anything. Now, I wish I stood up for him and treated him like nothing was wrong with him. Also, my mom said I have to give one quarter of all my bat mitzvah money to one charity but I said no. I said I’m going to give one quarter of my money to many charities. Mostly, I want to give the money to a charity that can help young kids get rid of their illness so they can have a normal life and not have to deal with everything Katrina had to go through. Also, during Christmas I got some money and I gave one quarter of it away to one of my mom’s friends to help with the poor people in Guatemala. Also, before Christmas I wanted my mom to return all of my presents and just give me one thing because of your book; I wanted to give all my presents away to the needy and just feel the warmth of doing something good. I was begging my mom to sign me up for community service but I couldn’t do anything because I was so busy. I’m starting to baby-sit and I’m going to give half of my profits from three months to the needy.

Thank you so much for changing my life. I am so happy my eyes are opened so I can see the real world and other kids’ lives.

Sincerely,
Madison R. Menyuk

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne
I am a student at A.E. Wright Middle School. My name is Avery Lawrence and I read The Paper Bag Christmas. This book has been very interesting to read and has tought me the true meaning of Christmas. I also went to visit children's hospitals with my friend Sage McGuire and give some gifts to them, though we couldn't because of spreading germs to the kids.
This book has brought me joy, happiness, and sadness. I no longer think of Christmas as just presents, but I now think of family and friends. I also enjoyed all of the characters and how they acted, especially Katrina.
Instead of getting presents I want to give more like you said giving is better then getting. If you read this it will bring you the true meaning of Christmas, also the meaning of friendship. I enjoyed this book very much and i hope you keep writing more great books.

yours truly,
Avery Lawrence

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
My name is Sage McGuire, I’m a twelve year old girl from Calabasas, California. I have dark brown hair, bright blue eyes, and I’m about 4’10. I go to A.E. Wright Middle School, and in Language Arts we have been reading your incredible book, The Paper Bag Christmas.
Your book was definitely not like any others I have read before. I loved how you showed not only how much Katrina grew inside, but Mo and Aaron as well. In the beginning they started out as two average boys, the main thing they wanted for Christmas was toys, toys, and more toys. Soon after, they started going to the Children’s Hospital their perspective on Christmas changed completely, and so did mine. Out of all the many things I love about this book I would have to say my favorite part was when Katrina gave her liver to Madhu. This really shows the true meaning of Christmas, and friendship. A valuable lesson I have learned, as well as my fellow Seventh graders who have read your novel.
I can honestly and most happily say this book has changed my life for the better. It has taught me that Christmas isn’t all about toys, and money. It’s about love. That’s why Avery Lawrence and I tried volunteering at a Children’s Hospital over break but we found that we were too young to participate. So, we have promised eachother the Christmas we are both eight-teen we will go St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital ,and remind ourselves how lucky we both are to be healthy, happy, and loved, because we know that there’s some kids out there, like Katrina, who aren’t as fortunate.
There are many things I can be saying thank you for. Thank you, for writing this incredible book. Thank you, for opening my eyes to the less fortunate. Thank you, for getting me into the holiday spirit. But most of all, I would like to thank you for changing my life and teaching me the true meaning of Christmas.
Love Always,
Sage McGuire

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,
Hi, my name is Maly, and I am a seventh grader at A.E. Wright Middle School. I absolutely loved your book, The Paper Bag Christmas. The Paper Bag Christmas is a book about how two boys get a chance to learn about the true meaning of Christmas, and the reader also learns the message along with the main characters.
I really like how the book sends the message that there is more to Christmas than presents. People need to learn this message, and I think reading this book could change some people’s perspective of Christmas. I enjoyed every second of reading this book. Also, another part I loved about the book was the details in The Paper Bag Christmas. We read all about Mo and Aaron and how they got to help children in the hospital and make many more friends. I could really feel what the characters were feeling. I felt like I was really “in” the book.
After reading this book, I feel that I have changed how I think about Christmas. I will admit that I do like getting presents on Christmas. Just like Mo and Aaron, I have no trouble making lists of things I want. Now, I really know that there is much more to Christmas than presents and greed. Is there anything more meaningful in life than family, friends and helping others? As I read The Paper Bag Christmas, I saw that helping others makes a difference in life, bringing happiness to others and to yourself.
When people read this book, I hope they get the message it gives, that Christmas is not just about the presents, it’s about the joy, happiness, and spirit the holiday brings. The Paper Bag Christmas could have a big impact on people’s thoughts about Christmas.
Yours truly, Maly Webster

Anonymous said...

Dear Mr. Milne,

My name is Antony Goldenberg, and I’m currently in 7th grade at AE Wright Middle School. I have just finished reading your great book, The Paper Bag Christmas. That book is now my favorite novel I have ever read for many reasons.
I loved a lot of things in the story, and I learned some morals for your story too. I loved how your book had so much meaning, and it had the true meaning of Christmas. I also loved the shocking end to the story which just amazed me.
Since reading your great book, I have changed a lot from kindness to personality. Your books are really important, because they teach lessons which you cannot just learn from doing, you have to understand it. You had inspired me to do a great act of kindness on Christmas Eve as well, like Mo and Aaron had done, but it wont be as big as volunteering at a children’s hospital.
I hope you will be able to make more novels like this one and I cant wait to read your other great books.

Sincerely,

Antony Goldenberg

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