Books Like...
'Old Christmas' by Washington Irving is a collection of essays that paint a vivid picture of Christmas celebrations in old England. The book takes the reader on a journey through various aspects of Christmas, from the preparations leading up to the big day to the joyous festivities that follow. Irving's writing is rich in detail and description, allowing the reader to immerse themselves in the traditions and customs of a bygone era. The book captures the essence of a traditional English Christmas, complete with nostalgic reflections and heartwarming tales of yesteryears.
The storytelling in 'Old Christmas' is structured in a series of essays that explore different facets of the holiday season, from the joy of reuniting with loved ones to the traditions and rituals that define the Christmas festivities. Irving's writing style transports the reader back in time, evoking a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the simpler pleasures of the holiday season. Each essay in the book offers a glimpse into the past, highlighting the enduring charm of old-fashioned Christmas celebrations and the importance of upholding traditions across generations.
If you liked Old Christmas, here are the top 3 books to read next:
- #1
"The Cricket on the Hearth" by Charles Dickens is a heartwarming Christmas novella that revolves around the lives of John and Dot Peerybingle, a happily married couple with a new baby. The story takes a dramatic turn when misunderstandings threaten to dissolve their marriage, all sparked by the meddling of the grumpy toymaker, Mr. Tackleton. The narrative also follows Caleb Plummer, Tackleton's impoverished employee, who tries to bring happiness to his blind daughter by deceiving her about Tackleton's true nature. Through the presence of a magical cricket on the hearth, the characters learn valuable lessons about love, forgiveness, and the importance of family and home. Dickens' writing style in this novella is characterized by melodrama, caricatural characters, and a whimsical tone that adds a touch of fantasy to the story.
- #2
A Christmas Memory by Truman Capote is a heartwarming and nostalgic short story about a young boy named Buddy and his elderly cousin as they prepare for Christmas by making fruitcakes together. The story captures the essence of love, loyalty, and tenderness in a friendship that defies age and gender stereotypes. Capote's writing style is described as poetic, touching, and evocative, with a focus on the simple joys of spending time with loved ones during the holiday season.
Imagine a morning in late November. A coming of winter morning more than twenty years ago. Consider the kitchen of a spreading old house in a country town. A great black stove is its main feature; but... - #3
"The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry is a heartwarming Christmas story that revolves around a young married couple, Jim and Delia, who both make sacrifices to buy each other Christmas gifts. Despite their financial struggles, they selflessly sell their most prized possessions to afford gifts for each other, highlighting the true spirit of giving and love. The plot is centered on the couple's acts of sacrifice and the irony of their gifts, emphasizing the message that the intention behind a gift is more important than the gift itself. The writing style of O. Henry beautifully captures the emotional depth of the characters and portrays the bustling city setting with vivid descriptions, making the story poignant and timeless for readers.
ONE dollar and eighty-seven cents. That was all. And sixty cents of it was in pennies. Pennies saved one and two at a time by bulldozing the grocer and the vegetable man and the butcher until one’s ch...