3.5 stars

Last Christmas is a short eclectic collection of personal essays writing on the theme of Christmas. Including voices from the likes of the rich and famous, volunteers and political refugees, this book compiles an array of honest experiences; from thought-provoking narratives to light-hearted anecdotes. I just wish there was more of a balance between positive and negatives experiences; the gloomier stories didn’t ignite my Christmas spark, but rather damped the festive cheer. Nonetheless, it’s fantastic that all the proceeds go to the charities mentioned throughout the book. Despite it not being for me, it is an interesting window into the varying mindsets at this time of year, some encapsulating the magical essence of Christmas, some drilling down on the fluffy commercialisation of the season.

A Christmas read that reminds what Christmas is and how different remember or live this festivity.
It's a perfect Christmas gift, highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.

I love Christmas. There, I’ve said it and I’ll get that out of the way! However, what is it that I love? The sparkliness? Yes. The presents? Well, I guess so, I mean, I wouldn’t turn down a carefully chosen gift from Tiffany for example. Mulled wine and a mince pie? Yes to the mulled wine but let me check your pastry prowess out before I bite. The main thing it means to me and to so many others, is being together with those you love and like. Christmas past was racing through whichever house we were at that particular year with my brother, sister and numerous cousins playing things like sardines, red faced with laughter and stuffed full of yummy food. This is what unites me and many others to those who written their Christmas memories and the meaning of Christmas to them in this diverse and thoughtful collection of short stories. There are famous people (Emma Thompson and Greg Wise obviously, Meryl Streep and many others) but also people who aren’t necessarily well known from different countries and backgrounds. Some stories tell of terrible hardships faced, so this isn’t your traditional saccharine Christmas story. Some are very funny (Greg), some are grumpy (Greg), some are sad especially those who have faced homelessness or war or persecution and some are religious and what is particularly interesting is how Christmas is viewed by other faiths. So it’s an eclectic mix that intrigues you throughout and I really enjoyed reading it. If you want to read something that gives a different perspective then this one should interest you.

So, pantomime (oh no it isn’t), the food, Santa Claus, the Queens Message, Advent calendars, presents, a roof over your head, fireflies instead of twinkly lights, carols, mince pies, nativity plays, good mood, bad mood, caring for others, celebrate life, love, good health, free from harm, awful relatives, lovely relatives, sadness, myths, ritual, traditions, memories but most important love, family, hope, freedom, justice, peace, hope and warmth. Happy Christmas one and all.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Quercus Books.

A great collection of stories. Would make an excellent Christmas stocking filler.
Thank you to both NetGalley and Quercus books for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my review

This is the perfect festive read for anybody who wants to feel a bit better about an increasingly commercialized season. With contributions from a variety of people, including actors, musicians, activists, refugees and more, it collates together peoples memories of Christmas - both good and bad -and how the season has stayed with them as they've grown up into adulthood and created their own traditions for Christmas. It's a tie-in with the film 'Last Christmas', which was written by Emma Thompson and Greg Wise, and whilst I haven't seen it, if it's anything like this delightful collection, it'll be well worth the watch.

I understood why this book existed and the point that both Emma Thompson and Greg Wise were trying to get across but I just found it a bit too depressing and realistic and I wanted a bit more wonder and excitement around this holiday. The reason for this book is important but it's a book that you pick up in the new year after all the celebrations have occurred as this is definitely a book that makes you lose some cheer and joy when reading it.

This is a collection of short pieces of writing about the meaning of Christmas, by many people from diverse walks of life. It is not a religious book (I wasn’t expecting it to be), and in spite of the diversity of people, and their attitudes towards Christmas, one thing shines brightly through - the true meaning of Christmas. The importance of time for family - genetic or found - and kindness towards others. In the world as it is now, these things are so important to remember. I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to be reminded of the real meaning of Christmas, in fact of being human.

I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

What a wonderful book! I love all things Christmas but equally sometimes it’s been the worst time of the year for me and I’ve hated the festivities. This book opens your eyes to others love of the season, their favourite memories and equally some awful times they’ve had. This book is for a wonderful cause and a cracking read.