The Dover Anthology of Classic Christmas Stories: Louisa May Alcott, Charles Dickens, Leo Tolstoy, Mark Twain and Others

The enduring appeal of the Christmas story lies in its heartfelt tradition, moral quandaries, and magical and mundane lore, collected in this anthology of ten classic tales from renowned writers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 27 October 2023
Publisher: Dover Publications Inc.

The enduring appeal of the Christmas story lies in its heartfelt tradition and often moral quandaries, both magical and mundane, all wrapped in the lore and practice of this cherished holiday. This anthology collects ten classic tales from some of literature's greatest writers, each offering a unique perspective on the season's themes.

The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry is a timeless tale of love and sacrifice, where a young couple discovers the true meaning of Christmas through their selfless acts. The Elves and the Shoemaker by the Bros. Grimm is a delightful story of kindness and generosity, as a poor woodcutter and his wife are rewarded for their faithfulness with a magical visit from the elves. A Christmas Tree by Charles Dickens is a heartwarming tale of family and tradition, as a young boy's love for a Christmas tree brings joy to his entire neighborhood. The Burglar's Christmas by Willa Cather is a poignant story of redemption and forgiveness, as a thief finds salvation through the kindness of a family during the Christmas season. A Letter From Santa by Mark Twain is a humorous tale of a young boy's letter to Santa, filled with mischievous requests and heartfelt wishes. A Country Christmas by Louisa May Alcott is a nostalgic tale of a family's Christmas celebration in the countryside, filled with love, laughter, and the spirit of the season. Where Love Is, There God Is Also by Leo Tolstoy is a philosophical tale that explores the connection between love and spirituality during the Christmas season. The Christmas Banquet by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a dark and haunting tale of greed and excess, as a wealthy family gathers for a Christmas feast that turns into a nightmare. A Kidnapped Santa Claus by L. Frank Baum is a whimsical tale of a young girl's adventure to rescue Santa Claus from a group of mischievous elves. Christmas; or the Good Fairy by Harriet Beecher Stowe is a heartwarming tale of a young girl's encounter with a magical fairy who teaches her the true meaning of Christmas.

Each of these tales captures the essence of the Christmas season, from the joy of giving and receiving gifts to the importance of family and tradition. They remind us of the power of love, kindness, and generosity, and the importance of finding joy in the simple things in life. Whether you are a fan of classic literature or a newcomer to the Christmas story, this anthology is sure to bring you joy and inspiration during the holiday season.

Weight: 232g
Dimension: 140 x 215 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780486852034