Salaam Santa

Kenan Bolic, a Bosnian Muslim war survivor, scrapes by driving cabs in Chicago-barely holding things together for his widowed mother and hapless younger brother, Denis.

But when half the cabbies are laid off and his mother's failing health racks up hospital bills, Kenan grows desperate enough to take the last job he ever expected: department-store Santa.

With a distaste for Christmas and no experience with children, he bombs spectacularly. Then, after dreaming of his late father, Kenan reconnects with the joyful sleight-of-hand magic they once shared. Soon, "Magic Santa" brings wonder and wisdom to children with candy canes, coins, and kindness.

The red suit becomes more than a costume. It gives Kenan purpose, dignity, and an unexpected bond with Demila, a kindhearted Bosnian seamstress, and her young son, Reuf.

But when Denis gets pulled into a Bosnian car theft ring, Kenan's fragile new hope collides with the violence he thought he had escaped. To save his family, Kenan must rely on street smarts, sleight-of-hand magic, and a faith stronger than vengeance.

Salaam Santa is a heartfelt Chicago interfaith holiday thriller about family, faith, survival, and the stubborn human need to believe in goodness.