More Christmas Book Ideas
This is my last chance of the year to tell you about Christmas stories, so I am going to take advantage of that. “Klaus,” by a multi-award-winning local author, Michelle Erickson, is a fun, romantic story about Santa Claus and his wife.
What a joy it was to read a fun, clean, romantic story that gives answers to all of the questions we may have about Santa, from why his reindeer fly to why his suit is red. It explains why he lives in the North Pole and what made him decide to make toys.
There are many creatures in this story, including elves, sprites, and abominable snow monsters, and I was enchanted by all of them. Eralee, who is part Dryad and part water nymph, is Klaus’s one true love, but she is immortal and Klaus is mortal. Immortals are forbidden to even associate with humans, let alone marry them. Bring in the Snow Witch, who also is vying for Klaus’s affections, and you have a great conflict.
Erickson will be doing a book signing at the BYU-Idaho Bookstore today from 12-2 p.m. She will have 3 of her books featured. She is an independent author who has released 12 books in 12 months. Support her writing efforts and check out her books! They are available on Amazon.com in paperback form as well as e-book form for the Kindle.
Another Christmas story is “The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry. This classic piece of short fiction tells of a young couple in turn–of-the-century New York with few material possessions, and how they give up their own precious items to get gifts for one another. It is a cherished tale that shows the true meaning of giving at this time of year.
The basis of this story is the foundation and inspiration for countless stories based on the idea that the desire to give the gift of love outweighs our desires for material things. If you have not read it, I suggest you find a version that will please your family. Whether it be the Muppets, Mickey Mouse, or the original version by O. Henry, this story should not go unread this Christmas season.
The picture book we read every Christmas Eve is “The Night Before Christmas” by Clement Clarke Moore, illustrated by Jan Brett. This famous Christmas poem is a staple in our home every year. This version is full of beautiful illustrations and is just the kind of classic Christmas book that makes our children bounce off the walls even more than do the gobs of sugar they have consumed.
Another book that we don’t read every year, but that we enjoy with regularity at Christmas time is “Santa’s Twin” by Dean Koontz. A fun spin on “The Night Before Christmas,” “Santa’s Twin” is about Bob Claus, Santa’s brother who wants to ruin Christmas. Instead of toys and candy canes, Bob delivers spiders, spinach, and Brussels sprouts candy. This is a great holiday book for children ages 8-12. And also for husbands who are 8 years old at heart!
Now I have given you some books for the season,
don’t you forget that there’s an important reason…
To celebrate at this time of year,
and start new traditions that you will hold dear.
Now off to the library I expect you to go,
to find some great books, some books you now know.
Stories for families that bring joy and great cheer,
and I’ll get more books ready to ring in the new year!
Gift of the Magi is an annual favorite with me. It is a great reminder of what a true gift really is about and also emphasizes the measure of selfless love. Great read.
ReplyDelete