Customer Reviews

A Christmas Carol and Other Christmas Writings (Penguin Classics)

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

CHARLES DICKENS A CHRISTMAS CAROL AND OTHER CHRISTMAS WRITINGS is a wonderful collection of Christmas renderings previously published in various Charles Dickens collections. Always the holiday favorite during the Christmas season, old Ebenezer Scrooge and his cast of spirits set the stage for A CHRISTMAS CAROL, which is the highlight of the book. However, the other stories included in this volume are a delight to read and show blueprints to the CAROL as well as after thoughts, such as 'The Story of the Goblins who Stole a Sexton' and THE HAUNTED MAN AND THE GHOST'S BARGAIN.

Beyond the holly and the ivy, Charles Dickens' writings show readers his references to societal issues in nineteenth century England that revolve around Christmas. Dickens explores issues, which relate to class and memory in order to achieve deeper meaning and human qualities for the characters he creates. In an era where industry and consumption began to overtake the true meaning of Christmas, Dickens uses his craft to show readers to compassion still exists during hard times. The latter stories in the book exemplify his intentions, "A Christmas Tree", "What Christmas Is, As We Grow Older", and "The Seven Poor Travellers."

Dickens charming stories have a timeless quality that have been revered through time regardless of what century or season they have been read. For those already familiar with the Carol, the other stories will offer more insight to Dickens' writings. Overall, this is a great collection that may be read like campfire stories on a cold winter's night, or simply cozily by the fireplace.

As far as the content in this book, it is fantastic - Dickens work easily earns fives stars.

This review is mainly on the book itself. I have five of these style of books from "Penguin Classics" and, although beautiful, I do wonder what they will look like in five years and after a few handlings by friends or family. Of the two I have read so far, the ink designs are starting to rub off slightly in some places. With some hardbacks, the ink is pressed at least a bit into the hard cover. With these books, it is just printed directly onto the clothe.

I have some leather bound books and so I do know how take care of my books. Perhaps the covers could have worn some will carrying in my bag. I am not sure, but my advice is to just be cautious to protect the covers if you choose these hardback editions of the classics.

I'm going to need a second shelf soon, but I love these clothebound classics. It also makes for a great go-to gift from my husband for the small holidays :)

To be honest this is the first time I have actually read Christmas Carol. I loved it. The short stories are fun to read also. Will reread each Christmas season. Dickens is wonderful to read. Love how he builds on his characters.

The book has a wonderful selection of stories . Having never actually read 'A Christmas Carol' it was a joy to read it for the first time. Reading it brought back memories of reading Dickens in High School and College. Well worth the purchase price.