From the very first page, Max and Indy at the Christmas Market invites readers into a world suffused with festive light, gentle wonder, and a spirit of quiet generosity. Written by Charmaine Blackman and brought to life through the vibrant illustrations of Sakshi Mangal, this children’s picture book captures the warmth of Christmas markets and the deeper meaning behind giving and kindness. https://www.maxandindy.com/
Set in an enchanting Christmas market, this sweet tale follows two inseparable friends — Max, a spirited Hungarian Vizsla, and Indy, a gentle French Bulldog. Every year, they pick out gifts for one another in this magical place. This time, they agree to split up at the market to find the perfect present, meeting again under the towering Christmas tree at midnight.
Indy selects gingerbread cookies for Max, but on her journey she encounters a little girl who is hungry and crying in the cold. Her big heart is tested: should she keep her gift for Max, or give it to someone who needs it more? Similarly, Max finds a beautiful ornament for Indy, but then he meets a young boy who can’t afford to buy one. Here, too, he must decide whether to hold onto his gift or give it away. When they finally reunite under the tree, both have stories to tell — stories of compassion, empathy, and unexpected generosity.
Blackman’s narrative is deceptively simple, but rich in emotional weight. For a picture book, it conveys a powerful message: the truest gift we can give isn’t always wrapped in paper — sometimes, it’s kindness. This lesson is especially resonant around the holidays, reminding readers (both young and old) that Christmas is about more than receiving; it’s also about noticing others, sharing warmth, and showing care.
It’s touching to learn that Max and Indy are inspired by Blackman’s real dogs — a Hungarian Vizsla and a French Bulldog — and that their personalities, so lovingly drawn, reflect the author’s own life with her family in Barrie, Ontario. Charmaine Blackman writes not just as a storyteller, but as a mom, a dog-lover, and someone who wanted to share something meaningful, rooted in her own family’s experiences. https://www.maxandindy.com/
Sakshi Mangal’s illustrations are a standout feature. Mangal — an experienced children’s book illustrator based in Vancouver — brings a whimsical, delicate style to the story. Her use of rich, warm colors evokes the glow of Christmas lights, the frosty air, and the coziness of the market stalls. The expressive faces of Max and Indy, and the tender details of the little children they meet, make each page feel lively and emotionally resonant.
What makes Max and Indy at the Christmas Market especially lovely is its gentle blend of holiday magic with a moral lesson that doesn’t feel preachy. It’s the kind of book that parents will appreciate reading aloud to their children — not only for its charming storyline, but because it opens the door to conversations about giving, empathy, and community. Blackman’s vision of “kindness, quiet generosity, and noticing those who may need a little joy” comes through clearly and tenderly.
The story is the inspiration behind the author’s Ginger Snaps found in our Recipe section. Let the kids into the kitchen and let them have fun with decorating their own masterpieces. Then go to https://www.maxandindy.com/ and order a copy of the book to share with your children/grandkids. You can also enter to win the book in our Giveaway section but know that it won’t make it to your Christmas tree until after the holidays.
Max and Indy at the Christmas Market is a warm, cozy read — perfect for the holiday season. Its heartfelt message, charming dog protagonists, and evocative illustrations make it a meaningful addition to any child’s bookshelf. Whether you’re looking for a story to share during a Christmas Eve read-aloud, or a gift that reminds young readers of the power of caring, this book delivers both charm and substance. It’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes the greatest gifts come from the heart.
Contents and images used with permission by Charmaine Blackman. https://www.maxandindy.com/