“Santa Claus and Little Sister” is autobiographical in nature, selfishly therapeutic in design, and hard proof that we cannot control our future regardless how hard we try.
This is a journey of one young optimistic East Coast teacher who taught at New Beginnings, a Los Angeles placement home for at-risk, mentally and physically abused, abandoned, gang, and socially-emotionally disturbed girls.
He discovers that truth often becomes lies, moral transforms into immoral, and fear builds knowledge.
This is a memorable adventure with two of these students, or catalysts, Chata and Lupe, and their frightful connections to a notorious Mexican child trafficking cartel and LA Gangs.
Chata, a bold and controlling overweight active member of the Baby Locas Division of the 18th Street Gang in South LA, struggles between two worlds and purposely brings both together in the back alleys of Los Angeles. Lupe, a small beautiful Mexican girl, identified only by the alias assigned to her by the FBI, is suddenly missing from the placement center leaving only her most cherished possession behind, a self-made book of poems and artwork entitled “To Santa Claus and Little Sisters”.
Refusing to accept the hypothesis that Lupe ran away on her own free will, risks would have to be taken by this naive Boston-born teacher and the mouthy 17 year-old Chata. Both would have to question their belief system many times in order to survive when circumstances were not in their favor.
To these young catalysts, Chata and Lupe, I am forever grateful for the spark that you ignited in me. Any survivor characteristics that I possess is probably due to you. Thanks girls.
This inspirational and captivating Novel deals with mature subjects including teen suicide, teenage problems, drug use, physical and mental abuse, and gang lifestyles.
Inspired by the poem “To Santa Claus and Little Sister” by Anonymous.
AWARDS:
YOUNG ADULT FICTION BREAKTHROUGH NOVEL CONTEST 2012
TOP CHOICE BOOK AWARD 2012 – FLAMINGNET.COM
INDIE SPOTLIGHT – MAY 16TH, 2012
GALLEYCAT (MEDIABISTRO) – JANUARY 2012
READERS’ FAVORITE AWARD 2012
BETTER WORLD BOOKS 2012
LITPICK 2012
“SANTA CLAUS AND LITTLE SISTER”
“This book was extremely informative and took the reader to places and experiences that are not normally encountered. The author Dr. Brian Snow, reveals a complete underbelly of society that most people are not aware or their casualties. This book was extremely moving and makes you want to do something about making changes in these childrens lives.
I would totally recommend this book to anyone who is going into education, social work or volunteering with under-privileged children.”
Goodreads June 11, 2013
“Wow, I don’t even know what to write, an amazing read for everyone! Very great -hard to put down book!!” – Goodreads 2102
*****
“If Dr. Brian G. Snow’s purpose for writing Santa Claus and Little Sister was to make his readers feel like crying and rushing out to do good in the world at the same time, he certainly achieved his goal. ”
Reviewer: Flamingnet
*****
“Wow this book was so moving. I am so happy I read it. I hate what happened to those girls and I was so sad that Lupe took her life. I am glad that everything worked out for Brian and Maria. Its a beautiful tragic story.”
Amanda – Goodreads
*****
“Powerful, true, dark and yet inspiring. This is an important read. Can’t wait for the edited version!”
*****
“This is a quick read and feels like a memoir/biography. Very entertaining and interesting….I liked the story..”
AMAZON BREAKTHROUGH NOVEL EXPERT REVIEWER
******
“Highly Recommend! This is a wonderfully uplifting book that shows the old addage “you can’t judge a book by it’s cover” is true. The characters seem ‘real’ and not flat. Real people living real life. Sometimes a life is not so pretty, but the love and caring always shines through.”
*****
“Inspirational and captivating – highly recommendedI found this extraordinary story inspirational and absorbing. The author tactfully incorporates the serious and unfortunately current subject matter of teenage suicide in a compelling and heartfelt story. I found myself laughing, crying, and cheering for the unlikely group of misfit heroes. I hope they turn this book into a movie. I highly recommend it!”
****
“Wow, this story just grabs you! Heart and mind! It begins so innocent and pastoral and before you know it you’re headlong into the frightening and troubled world of young girls on the streets of LA. Such an important work. Everyone must read!”
–Barnes & Noble Reviews
*****
“This book was excellent. I read it through in 2 sittings and I plan to re-read it very soon. It is a heartwrenching story, that made me happy, sad, mad and just wanting to help the “victims” of abuse. I would highly recommend this book to any adult, but especially to those who are teachers or who work with
children in any way.”
– Amazon.com Review_________
Format:Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase:
I have to say this is one of the most touching stories I have ever read. It tugged at my emotions like a book has never done before.
I really felt for everyone in the story and I developed a deep respect for the people in it also. I never knew how cruel the lives of some can be. This book humbled me and I appreciate it for that.
I think this book could teach everyone a valuable lesson and I recommend it to all.
You need to read this book, it will change you for the better!
______________
Format:Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
Very moving work. This book is one of those that leaves a lasting impression. Reflective life questions. Dealing in a world I have never been remotely close to, I felt involved due to the authors writing style.
Covering a lot of serious issues like suicide, drug use and abuse on a number of levels. A very gripping and emotional investment.
I highly recommend this book. This is worth reading, no doubt.
__________
Now Available in Paperback and Ebook in over 100 Countries:
http://www.directtextbook.com/isbn/9781467971942
For more information:
http://tosantaclaus.net/the_novel
Beneath Dirt
