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2 years ago
'I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.' - Charles Dickens
Christmas is fast approaching, so it’s time to get into the festive spirit, with plenty of decorations, Netflix’s vast array of festive offerings, and getting cosy on the couch with one of many Christmas classic novels. From old humbugs and evil ice queens to towering snowmen and (of course) Santa Claus, here are our favourite Christmassy classic novels to get into the seasonal spirit this year…
One of Britain’s most-loved Christmassy classic novels is Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, which brings to life the miserly and grumpy humbug Ebenezer Scrooge. On Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by the ghost of his old friend, followed by three spirits who take him through his past, present and future in the hopes that he will learn from his mistakes and nastiness. Will Scrooge learn to love Christmas?
Puffin Classics, ÂŁ12.99
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Set on Christmas Eve, Agatha Christie’s festive detective novel sees a Lee family reunion shattered by an unexpected murder. The victim? None other than the tyrannical Simeon Lee, who is found dead with his throat slashed. When Hercule Poirot offers to assist, he finds a rather odd atmosphere – not of mourning, but of mutual suspicion. It seems everyone had their own reason to hate the old man…
HarperCollins, ÂŁ14.99
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While maybe not a true Christmas classic, Little Women is known for it iconic scenes in the snow and celebrations of the holiday. The March sisters – Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy – are as different as they come when you meet them, but with their father away and mother working they must rely on each other for support. Navigating a new world as they grow up is tough, but together they strive to enjoy every second.
Puffin Classics, ÂŁ13.99
Did you know that Frank Capra’s iconic Christmas film It’s a Wonderful Life was based on a book? Philip Van Doren’s short story is an evocative tale about a man who ponders suicide until he receives an opportunity to see what the world would be like without him. Rejected by several publishing houses, The Greatest Gift was sent out by the author in Christmas cards back in 1943 – with one luckily making it’s way to the American film director just in time for the holidays.
Doubleday, ÂŁ4.99 (eBook only)
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A wonderful Christmassy classic novel for the whole family (and stunning animated film) can be found in Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman. On a cold winter night in the lead up to Christmas, a snowman comes to life an takes the little boy who made him on an exciting adventure. Festive magic at its finest.
Puffin, ÂŁ7.99
For a bit of Christmas revelry and rhyme, The Night Before Christmas is an optimal bedtime story choice for kids and parents alike. It’s packed with beautiful illustrations and verses, including the iconic line: ‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse…’.
Picture Corgi, from ÂŁ10.61
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Another festive favourite that you’ll find lining the shelves is How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr Seuss. Featuring our favourite green grump, Seuss weaves together a fun story that never gets old. Originally published in 1957, this version presents Dr. Seuss’s original illustrations in full colour for the very first time – meaning you can see the Grinch’s dastardly deeds unfurl in vibrant detail.
Random House Books for Young Readers, ÂŁ7.99
Beatrix Potter is known for crafting charming stories – usually with small animals dressed up in little jackets and waistcoats. The Tailor of Gloucester is no different, telling the story of a poor tailor tasked with creating wedding attire for the Mayor of Gloucester. As time runs out and the tailor gets more and more tired, it’s up to some very kind and resourceful mice to help get the job done.
Warne, from ÂŁ3.50
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A truly Christmassy classic novel, Hans Christian Andersen’s The Snow Queen tells the story of Kay and Greta’s encounter with the beautiful but cruel Snow Queen. When Kay’s heart and eye are pierced by a splinter of glass, he is carried away to the Snow Queen’s palace – leaving Greta to leave home on a rescue mission to find him.
Andersen Press, from ÂŁ4.30
All aboard the Polar Express, bound for Santa’s workshop in the North Pole. Late one Christmas Eve, after everyone else has gone to sleep, a boy boards a mysterious train that waits for him. Chris Van Allsburg’s The Polar Express is a wonderful tale full of Christmas magic.
Andersen Press, from ÂŁ3.50
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Featured image: Getty Images
