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The Snowman  and Father Christmas by Raymond Briggs

Two picture books written and illustrated by Briggs could not be less similar.  The Snowman is a quiet, magical adventure in the short and sweet life of a snowman.  Father Christmas follows a disgruntled Santa Claus on his rounds.  The film versions capture the rich illustrations.

Miracle on 34^th Street by Valentine Davies

The lives of three people are changed by a man who insists he is Santa Claus.  The 1947 Academy Award winner featured a young Natalie Wood.  The 1994 remake starred Richard Attenborough as Santa.

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

The story of an uncaring, old miser who transforms into a charitable, kind gentleman with the help of three spirits.  It was the inspiration for many films including Scrooged with Bill Murray.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss

The Grinch, whose heart is two sizes too small, hates Who-ville’s holiday celebrations, and plans to steal all the presents to prevent Christmas from coming.  The film version starring Jim Carrie is a much, much expanded storyline.

The Christmas Box by Richard Paul Evans

A young family moves in to the house of a wealthy widow.  Together they discover the greatest gift of Christmas and learn what Christmas is really all about.  The made-for-TV Hallmark Home Entertainment movie stars Maureen O’Hara.

Skipping Christmas by John Grisham

The story of tax accountant Luther Krank and his wife Nora who plan to forego Christmas and all the costly trappings and treat themselves to a Caribbean cruise.  The movie, Christmas with the Kranks, stars Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson

The six mean Herdman kids lie, steal, smoke cigars (even the girls) and then become involved in the community Christmas pageant.  The 1986 film version starred Loretta Swit.

In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash by Jean Shepherd

Set in Indiana during the 1940’s, 9-year-old Ralphie desperately wants a Red Ryder BB-gun for Christmas, over his parents’ objections.  This book inspired the movie A Christmas Story.  Unfortunately, it is only available in large print.

The Polar Express written and illustrated by Chris Van Allsberg

A magical train ride on Christmas Eve takes a boy to the North Pole to receive a special gift from Santa Claus.  Tom Hanks stars in the film version that is already a modern Christmas classic.

December 1, 2006

Hamilton Public Library

Hamilton, Ontario, Canada