Christmas Collection: 10 Stories to Make Christmas More Magical

 

Christmas Collection: 10 Stories to Make Christmas More Magical

 

“Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before! What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store? What if Christmas…perhaps…means a little bit more!”

Dr. Seuss, How The Grinch Stole Christmas!

 

Christmas is about a little bit more! It is about the spirit of holiday, the warmth of love and the joy of spending time with your loved ones. The sweet aroma of cakes and delicacies wafting through the air, and the melody of Christmas carols ringing all around add to the celebrations of this wonderful festival. One of the primary reasons why this festival is awaited so eagerly is that in addition to marking the beginning of the holiday season, it also sets off the exchange of gifts. Gifts have a special significance in the celebration of Christmas; they bring people together and spread joy and love all around. A lot of thinking goes into deciding gifts for Christmas as most people want to signify their love through the gifts they give to others.

 

Perhaps one of the greatest gifts, that are timeless and precious are Books. As a child, I remember, getting books as presents from my family and friends used to brighten up my day and I couldn’t stop myself from scouring the contents of the book thoroughly. There are many such books that as children we read, and have become an important part of our lives as they not only were engaging but now have become little reminders of the past. Christmas stories and books were one of the most prominent memories that stand out as they are reminiscent of all that was magical and enchanting. The adventures of Mr. Scrooge or the amusing attempts by the Grinch to ruin Christmas, all added to the fantasy land that existed in the minds of us as children.

 

One of the most beautiful memories that we have of our childhoods are to sit around the Christmas tree, wrapped in our blankets, sipping hot chocolate and exchanging Christmas stories. To spread the holiday cheer further, we went and asked a number of people of their favorite Christmas tales, and here is a list of the many stories and books based on the theme of Christmas. These stories lightened and brightened the Christmas for many people, perhaps you too can take a leaf out of their books, and give yourself and your family the gift of stories. Here is a list of stories that we narrowed down for you to enjoy this holiday season:

A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens , Source

1. A Christmas Carol (1843)

 

This wonderful story written by the splendid author, Charles Dickens tells the tale of a bitter man Ebenezer Scrooge who gets a new lease in life after being visited by the ghosts of Past, Present and Yet to Come. This much acclaimed book rejuvenates the spirit of Christmas and over the years has become synonymous with the joy of Christmas. A tale of redemption and miracles, it sets free the minds and hearts of all the readers. If you haven’t already read it, grab a copy of this fabulous book soon!

The Gift Of Magi, O. Henry , Source

2. The Gift of Magi (1906)

 

This is a heart-rending short story written by another spectacular author O. Henry. The story explores the act of exchanging gifts for Christmas and how a couple, dealing with poverty, does all that they can to give each other the joy of a Christmas gift. This story talks about the depth of love and the extent of sacrifice that lovers are willing to make for each other. An emotionally stirring tale warms the heart on the cold eve of Christmas.

The Adventures of the Christmas Pudding, Agatha Christie , Source

3. The Adventures of the Christmas Pudding (1960)

 

Another thrilling story by the bestselling crime fiction writer Agatha Christie, this short story would add thrill to the festivity of Christmas. A mysterious note found on the bed which says “DON’T EAT NONE OF THE PLUM PUDDING. ONE WHO WISHES YOU WELL.” sets a series of mysterious events in motion and leads up to interesting revelations. Another story classic of Christie’s signature mystery tales that eventually lead to the culprit being one of the insiders, this tale would add suspense to your fun Christmas night.

How The Grinch Stole Christmas, Dr. Seuss , Source

4. How The Grinch Stole Christmas! (1957)

 

Written by Dr. Seuss, this is a story of a bitter and grumpy Grinch who hates Christmas. Annoyed by the festivities, the Grinch decides to steal the presents of the people and put an end to the celebrations. However his quest isn’t successful and despite not having presents, people continue to revel in the festive cheer and the Grinch learns an important lesson that Christmas isn’t just about gifts, it is about something…more!

101 Dalmatians, Dodoe Smith , Source

5. 101 Dalmatians (1956)

 

Perhaps, one of the most loved movies of all times is 101 Dalmatians which is based on the novel by Dodie Smith. Loved especially by the dog-lovers, this is a story of a litter of Dalmatians hated and hunted by the cruel Cruella de Vil who hatches a horrible plan of making coats for Christmas from the fur of the dogs. If you have been entertained by the movie, be assured the book tops the movie and would be an exciting tale to read out to children and adults alike.

The Greatest Gift, Philip Van Doren Stern , Source

6. The Greatest Gift (1945)

 

All of us have heard of the popular film “It’s a Wonderful Life”, but few of us know that this story is based on the short story written by Philip Van Doren Stern called ‘The Greatest Gift’. This story is a classic example of the old adage ‘Be careful what you wish for!’ and tells the tale of a man on the verge of committing suicide, tells a stranger he wishes he was never born. Granted the wish, the man falls into anonymity where none of his people recognize him anymore. He soon realizes that he had the greatest gift of all, the gift of life. A tale of celebration of life, this is a perfect read for Christmas to maintain the spirit of Christmas!

A Visit From St. Nicholas, Clement Clark Moore , Source

7. A Visit From St. Nicholas (1823)

 

Written by Clement Clark Moore, this poem is a collection of verses, which describes the night of Christmas when Santa stealthily comes to present gifts to all the children. A man watches Santa approach, down from the chimney, carrying a sack of gifts and they share a moment together when Santa catches his eye. A perfect rendition of the Christmas night, imagined and relished by children all across the world, this poem is a treat for all and would sweep you off to the magical land of imagination.

The Polar Express, Chris Van Allsburg , Source

8. The Polar Express (1985)

 

This exciting story is about the adventures of a young boy who boards the Polar Express headed towards North Pole and filled with chocolates and candy. The boy is chosen to be the first child to receive his Christmas present. What does he choose? What other adventures he has on his way? To know more, get your hands on a copy of this interesting book and read it out aloud to the kids. They will definitely treasure this story for a lifetime!

The Father Christmas Letters, J.R.R. Tolkein , Source

9. The Father Christmas Letters (1976)

 

Penned down by the phenomenal fantasy-fiction author, J.R.R. Tolkein, this is a must read for all literature lovers. It is presented in the form of a series of letters; it talks about the perspective of Santa Claus on various issues. Apart from being a fantasy tale, it also is a social commentary on issues like war. An essential read for all, children and adults alike.

Skipping Christmas, John Grisham , Source

10. Skipping Christmas (2001)

 

This relatively new release by John Grisham provides for comic release on the eve of Christmas. Amidst comic twists, the story is an inspirational tale about the importance of spending time with family and loved ones. Aside from talking about the hustle bustle of the festival it expounds on the primary basis for celebration which is love and togetherness of families. A good read for all the book lovers by the truly magical John Grisham.

 

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