New York children’s publisher Sky Pony Press has released West Virginia native Robert L. Fouch’s second book in the “Christmas Carol & the Defenders of Claus” series.
The sequel, “Christmas Carol & the Shimmering Elf,” is geared toward middle-grade children (ages 8 to 12) and continues the story of Carol Glover, a 12-year-old girl who’s obsessed with Christmas and becomes one of the “Defenders of Claus” who keep Santa safe. In the new book, Carol has to travel back in time to save Santa, Christmas and the world itself.
Fouch, a Marshall University graduate who grew up in Petersburg, W.Va., said he couldn’t resist returning to Carol and her story. “I have a real affection for the character and I’m excited about her new adventure,” Fouch said. “Kids really responded to the first book and I’m hoping they like this one, too. I had so much fun writing it, and I’m a sucker for a good time travel story.”
Fouch is a member of West Virginia Writers Inc. and in 2017 won first place in the children’s writing category in the group’s annual contest. Jason Lethcoe, the bestselling author of the “Zoom’s Academy” series, calls Fouch “a gifted writer” and said, “His ‘Christmas Carol’ books are presents worth giving all year ’round.”
The 50-year-old newspaper journalist, who lives in Valley Stream, N.Y., said he was inspired by his son to try children’s writing. “He’s 16 now, so he’s too cool for the kind of stories I write, but I still go to him for advice. He’s my toughest critic.”
And the author said Christmas was a natural subject matter for him. “My family’s always been Christmas crazy,” he said. “But it’s not about the gifts or the decorations or any of that. It’s about being together as a family. And that feeling is at the heart of my ‘Christmas Carol’ stories.”
The hardcover book, which features a cover illustration by artist David Miles, goes on sale Nov. 12. For more information on the “Christmas Carol” series, visit robertfouch.com or skyponypress.com.
