Customer Reviews

A Stranger for Christmas

5 star:		(13)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

I don't quite remember how I came across this book, but I try to read it every year around the holidays. It's an unbelievably heartwearking tale, and I cry every single time I read it. Also, contrary to the editorial reviewer who apparently has a chip on their shoulder, I find it well written... to me it is written as you would expect elderly women in their situation to speak and think. And it certainly had no flaws that caught my attention, but then I'm not the type that is looking for something wrong all the time.

It is a relatively short, easy, and most pleasurable read. I'd recommend the book for anyone you know who likes to read, like's touching tales, or has a heart for the elderly. Also, I think anyone can enjoy this book... Christian or not. To me, it's a beautiful tale about how simple it is to touch and transform the life of another person.

Mother Teresa coined the term "the leprosy of the West" to describe the selfish trend of dumping the elderly in nursing homes where they can conveniently be forgotten or periodically described a receiving the best of care. Carol Lynn Pearson examines this disease in her delightful Yuletide story "A Stranger for Christmas."

The short tale may be somewhat predictable, lightly sugar-coated, and in certain cases a little less than plausible, but none of those debatable deficiencies is a crime. This allegory of two neglected little old ladies trying to prove that good people still exist among the modern day Christmas hustle and bustle leaves the reader with a very satisfied feeling.

In fact, I preferred `Stranger' to the enjoyable, but in my view overrated modern classic "The Christmas Box." Amidst all the holiday habiliments, sneak an hour to read it, and you may completely re-prioritize your Christmas to do list.

One of my all-time favorite Christmas stories! A quick read, but it always reminds me the importance of the true Christmas spirit, and of keeping those ideas of helping others all year. I love this book!

Christmas is the perfect time to read something tender and heartwarming. This book definitely fills that bill. The surprise ending which restores faith in humanity - while not totally realistic - is a reminder to all what the season should really be all about. If you like sentimentality and warmth, you'll enjoy this quick little holiday read. I, for one, think Carol Lynn Pearson is superb in whatever she writes!

This book is a must for every family. We read it aloud several times over, with adults & children. All enjoy the story & it teaches us the real meaning of sharing & caring. Beautifully written. It will touch everyones heart.

I read this out loud with my younger daughter over the course of Christmas break and it turned out to be a lot of fun. Light and easy with a great message.

I first found this book at least a dozen years ago. Since then it has been a Christmas favorite. I read it out loud with my Christmas several years when they were young. I try to read it each year. I've given away 20 or more copies a gifts. It is a fast read that brings the spirit of Christmas into my heart. Terrific book!

Loved the story. I found it to be a perfect book to reread anytime. I will be passing the book on to my daughter as she shares many of my traits. (Love of reading and love of older people.)

Heartwarming and perfect gift for someone you care about. Very well written and has much insight into human nature. Have bought many copies over the years to share with friends.

Reading this book was an excellent and wonderful way to invite the holiday spirit. This story is thought-provoking and a genuine joy to read! Pearson's descriptive writing ability pulls you into the story and allows you to experience the events right along with the two old ladies. I always love a book that can make me laugh and make me cry. This book has a great mix of both and a sprinkling of Christmas nostalgia we all need.
It's a short story you could easily read in a couple hours and as such is a wonderful gift for a family Christmas present--something to read together during the holiday season. It's a perfect book for all ages and walks of life.