The Snowman Code by Simon Stephenson

What worked:

The book tells a charming story about a sad, young girl named Blessing. The root of her problem concerns the longest winter on record and the effects it’s having on the citizens. Her mother, Margaret, is suffering from seasonal depression, as winter always makes her depressed. Her issues are so severe that children’s services place Blessing in foster care every time winter rolls around. Readers can see how a record-setting long winter will create a massive problem for Blessing and her mom. Blessing is hassled by three bullies (she thinks of them as the Driplet Triplets), which makes her decision to become truant even easier.

The Snowman Code consists of rules snowmen must follow, and they cannot be broken. The first rule readers will encounter states that a snowman must ignore humans, but they must respond if a human speaks to them six times. Albert Framlington is a shoddy-looking snowman (Blessing would rate him as 3 out of 10) in the park, and he reluctantly befriends Blessing. The code guides Albert’s behavior, especially the second rule that says snowmen must help children in need. However, a conflict arises due to a secret Albert is keeping from Blessing.

Albert Framlington adds much humor to the story because of his superior-sounding attitude. He insists people born in the summer (like Blessing) are less intelligent than those born in winter, like him. He spouts off “facts” and can’t believe Blessing doesn’t know the information. Readers may agree with Blessing when Albert says Sherlock Holmes was a famous zookeeper, not a detective. He insists Africa is covered in snow even after Blessing tells him he’s talking about the Arctic. Readers should know Albert’s cheeks turn red when he’s fibbing, although he insists that he never tells a lie.

What didn’t work as well:

Snowmen are always supposed to follow the Snowman Code, but Albert Framlington seems to be less than serious about this concept. His cavalier attitude defines his character, but it may also be confusing. If rule number two says he’s supposed to help Blessing, then why isn’t he more honest with her?

The final verdict:

This magical story will appeal to young readers, as the author creates a very creative tale. The idea of living snowmen and their recurring births presents a story readers have never seen before.  Overall, I recommend you give this book a shot.