Doc Christmas and The Magic of Trains by Neil Enock tells the story of Doc Stevens who, since his wife died several years previously, spends his time working in his specialised field in infectious diseases. He has little time for his daughter and granddaughter, for friends, or for Christmas. Even his love of model trains has been pushed aside in his grieving for his wife. It takes the magical world of elves to finally remind him of the things that are really important in his life. When the elves become sick from some unknown bacteria, Doc is called upon to use his skills and knowledge to help the elves find a cure, and ultimately save Christmas. In order to do so, however, Doc has to rekindle his belief in magic, something that was lost when his wife died.

This is a lovely tale that tugs at the heart strings and yet stirs the reader to encourage Doc to believe in the power of magic. The author, Neil Enock, hasn’t just written a sweet Christmas tale, but a story that encompasses the magic of trains as well as the magic of Christmas because the two are intertwined in this delightful story. More than just a tale of magic, this story is also about the importance of family and friends, and the bonding between a parent and child. It’s also about helping one another and that, with enough faith, anything is possible. Although consumed with sadness for all that he has lost, Doc is led to realise that what he has in the present is just as important. This is a story about making Christmas special and appreciating those around you who help to make it so. It doesn’t hurt to believe in a little magic, either.

Neil Enock’s Doc Christmas and The Magic of Trains is a delightful fantasy tale that will appeal to children and adults alike. Christmas is around the corner, but there is trouble in the North Pole where the elves tasked to distribute Christmas cheers, literally and figuratively, are struck with a strange illness. Meanwhile Doctor Stevens is in profound grief over the loss of his wife. What follows is a fascinating journey into the real spirit of Christmas as Nick, pretending to be a reporter, interviews the grieving doctor about a train design that he has been working on and left unfinished when his wife died. His daughter, Vicki, and granddaughter, Jeanette, try to help because Christmas, as we know it, is now placed in jeopardy.

Doc Christmas and The Magic of Trains is a charming Christmas story that will not fail to warm readers’ hearts. Neil Enock writes about a subject that most of us hold dear and he manages to deliver a unique story that is both vivid and fantastic. It reminds me a bit of Mr. Scrooge, but Doctor Stevens is definitely a far more likable character. And for those who are interested in trains, this book is a sure winner. Doc Christmas and The Magic of Trains is a futuristic Christmas story where science and magic do not clash; on the contrary, these two seemingly opposing forces work together. This is a story of love, family, friendship and loss. And it sure is a wonderful read!