As a teacher, I am often faced with questions regarding Santa’s existence from my students. Of course I reassure them that he does exist, and I am grateful for the opportunity to preserve their innocence a little while longer. For the students who are more skeptical, I always turn to Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus by Francis P. Church. This beautiful story expounds upon the idea of Santa Claus and presents a more adult interpretation while still maintaining the veracity of the “jolly old elf.” This book has brought such magic to my family’s holiday season and I hope it does the same for yours! 

The Small One is based off of a short movie by the same name produced by Disney in 1978. I have to confess, every time I watch the movie and read the book, I  become extremely misty-eyed. It is the tale of a boy who must sell his donkey who is too old to work for the family. After several adventures in the market place and failing to find someone willing to take him in, the donkey leads the boy back to the butcher, ready to make the ultimate sacrifice for his family. At the moment when the two are saying good-bye and all hope seems lost, a humble carpenter asks to purchase the donkey to carry his very pregnant wife to Bethlehem. The boy accepts, knowing he has found the right family to care for his beloved friend. In a twist reminiscent of O. Henry, the end of this story is the beginning of the Nativity. I hope you and your family enjoy this touching narrative as much as I do! 

Since before I can remember, The Gift of the Magi has been one of my favorite stories. I absolutely love the themes of sacrifice, selfless giving and putting others before yourself that the book explores. O. Henry’s elegant and suspenseful prose grabs the audience’s attention from the very beginning. And the master of the surprise ending provides an emotional tour de force at the conclusion that readers won’t soon forget. In this season of giving, this classic reminds us that it is truly better to give than receive. As the Prayer of St. Francis states, “it is in giving that we receive.” I hope that you and your family enjoy this holiday classic as much as I have!