Daily Archives: December 23, 2016

Christmas Pageants and Traditions

Posted in Christmas, Classics, Holidays, Theme Books by

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I remember the first time I read The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson. I didn’t know what to expect, but it has since become one of my favorite Christmas books. It is an excellent example of character growth as the narrator’s (and subsequently the reader’s) opinion of the Herdmans evolves over the course of the narrative. The story’s twist ending takes the audience by surprise and demonstrates the importance of looking beyond the surface to a person’s inner character. It also demonstrates the importance of getting to know people and giving them a second chance, even when it’s difficult. I hope you enjoy this heartwarming tale as much as I do! 

 

 

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A Magical Train Ride

Posted in American Literature, Christmas, Classics, Holidays, Theme Books by

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When I was a little girl, my Mom took me and my sister to a Teddy Bear Tea at the Ritz every year at Christmas. After everyone had eaten, it was tradition for the Polar Express to be read out loud. This story has always captivated my imagination. What would it be like to travel to the North Pole and visit Santa? This book, written and illustrated by Chris Van Allsburg ,won the 1986 Caldecott Medal, and it it is easy to see why. The whimsical writing and stunning illustrations take readers on a fantastical adventure, proving that holiday magic is everywhere, if we know where to look. This Christmas, perhaps we, too, will hear the soft jingle of a reindeer’s silver bell. 

The Grinch and Me

Posted in American Literature, Christmas, Classics, Dr. Seuss, Holidays by

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So, I have a confession. I absolutely love the Grinch! Though the term has a derogatory connotation, I believe that this seemingly simple children’s story has a deceptively complex and profound message. Though the Grinch is mean throughout the story, he atones for his actions and earns the forgiveness of Whoville at the end. As a girl, I would often wonder why the Grinch was so mean. I was convinced that there was more to the story! I my favorite part of the book is that, despite everything, the Grinch still gets his happy ending. I find that so hopeful and especially appropriate at this time of year. As Seuss reminds us, “Welcome Christmas, come this way!” 

 

 

The Nutcracker

Posted in Christmas, Classics, Holidays by

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When I was a little girl, my parents took me and my sister to the Nutcracker ballet every year. It was one of the highlights of the Christmas season. I have loved the story of the Nutcracker since before I can remember. When I was about five or six, all I wanted was a Nutcracker for Christmas and to be just like Clara. To my delight, I opened the most beautiful nutcracker on Christmas morning and I spent the next several days listening to the music and dancing the part of Clara all over our basement. Naturally, reading The Nutcracker by ETA Hoffman has become a Christmas tradition for me and my enjoyment of story has not abated, though I am no longer a little girl. I hope this story fills your holidays with as much magic as it has mine!