If you’re looking for a unique and entertaining holiday read for kids with a twist of spooky fun, The Fright Before Christmas by Gig Wailgum is the perfect pick. This children’s book offers a wildly imaginative take on the beloved holiday poem The Night Before Christmas—but with a monstrous makeover.

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A Quirky Twist on a Holiday Classic

In this creative parody, readers are introduced to Santa Clops, the one-eyed Cyclops cousin of Santa Claus. While the jolly man in red delivers gifts to good children, Santa Clops swoops in from the South Pole with a much darker mission: delivering coal to those who’ve been naughty all year.

Riding in a sled pulled by flying penguins, Santa Clops invades the home of a sleeping family on Christmas Eve. The father, awakened by a strange noise, peeks outside to find the terrifying visitor descending upon their chimney. As Santa Clops begins his grim task of stuffing stockings with coal, the dad intervenes, pleading his children’s innocence in hopes of saving Christmas.

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Fun, Rhyming Narrative & Eye-Catching Illustrations

Told entirely in rhyme, the narrative mirrors the original flow and rhythm of Clement Clarke Moore’s A Visit From St. Nicholas, but replaces Santa’s cheerful charm with Clops’ eerie menace. This clever use of poetic structure makes the story both amusing and engaging for young readers.

What truly brings the story to life, however, are the vibrant, expressive illustrations. The visuals are packed with humor, emotion, and holiday chaos, perfectly capturing the spirit of this offbeat tale. Children will enjoy flipping through the colorful pages, even before they can read the rhyming text themselves.

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Who’s It For?

While the book is wonderfully imaginative, parents should note a few things before sharing it with very young readers. For example, the word “jerk” appears in the text—something caregivers may want to consider depending on their family’s reading preferences. Additionally, younger or more sensitive children may find Santa Clops a bit frightening.

That said, The Fright Before Christmas is ideal for kids aged 4 and up, especially those who enjoy a mix of comedy and spookiness during the holidays.

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Final Thoughts

Gig Wailgum delivers a clever and creepy Christmas tale that stands out from the traditional holiday lineup. With its poetic rhythm, quirky characters, and eye-popping illustrations, The Fright Before Christmas is sure to become a favorite read-aloud for families looking to add something fresh (and a little frightful) to their festive traditions.

Whether you’re looking for a humorous Christmas bedtime story or a unique stocking stuffer, Santa Clops is ready to bring a different kind of holiday cheer — just make sure you’ve been nice!

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