A message to Dad
Lucas shares what Mrs. Bell added—and Dad’s reply makes the moment even more meaningful.
The first story from Murphy’s Story House
More Than a Snowman
Sometimes what we build becomes bigger than we imagined.
Three days before Christmas, Lucas learns that his father must deploy. To keep Dad close, he builds a snowman in the front yard—and dresses it in the familiar pieces that remind him of home.
But when neighbors begin adding memories of their own, Lucas discovers that his snowman can hold more than snow. It can hold gratitude, service, love, and the stories that connect a community.
About the story
Love can travel farther than we think.
At its heart, More Than a Snowman is about a child finding a way to stay connected during a difficult separation.
Lucas begins with one deeply personal idea. Mrs. Bell answers it with kindness. Soon, neighbors bring ribbons, patches, photographs, and their own family memories. What started as Dad’s snowman becomes our snowman—a place where an entire community can see itself.
Military familiesEmotional resilienceNeighbors helping neighborsRemembering together
A glimpse inside
From one family’s story to a neighborhood’s story.
A sign of respect
The snowman begins to speak to others who understand the meaning of service.
More than snow
Even as winter changes, the memories gathered there remain worth protecting.
“It wasn’t just Dad’s Snowman anymore. It was Our Snowman.”From More Than a Snowman
Read it together
A story that opens conversation.
For families and classrooms, the book offers a natural way to talk about separation, service, changing seasons, memory, and the difference one thoughtful act can make.
Visit the Parents & Educators page for conversation starters and simple activities inspired by the story.
Bring the story home.
More Than a Snowman is available now through Amazon.