What I’m reading this December + small giveaway

Tis the Season to get cozy and blog about some of my favorite Christmas books. Since there are too many to share all of them, I’ve chosen a few of my absolute faves. So hang on to your Santa Clause stocking caps and enjoy the wild holiday sleigh ride.

The book that first influenced me was a very short one, and it wasn’t really a book, but a poem—a poem that had all the delights, magic and excitement of Christmas from a kid’s perspective. You know what I’m talking about – The Night Before Christmas by C. Clement Moore. That small book influenced me so much, when I grew up, I used to write a new letter each year mimicking the poem, but filling in my family’s news and sending it off with my Christmas cards. Isn’t copying the highest honor?

Another book that illustrates the true meaning of Christmas, besides, of course, the story of the Nativity, was The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry. What better way to drive home the point of sacrificial giving and the joy it brings. Out of love Della cuts off her hair, her one prized possession, to buy a platinum fob chain for Jim’s prized possession—his father’s watch—and Jim sells that heirloom to buy tortoise shell combs for her gorgeous hair. The story taught me about the joy of giving over getting, and I am happy to report I love to give gifts far more than receive them. Though don’t get me wrong, no gift given to me has gone without appreciation!

RKO Theatrical Release Poster

As I got older, I was so enchanted by the classic Capra movie It’s A Wonderful Life, I wanted to read the short story that inspired it. The Greatest Gift (there’s a theme here, see?) by Philip Van Doren Stern came to him in a dream. A guy so down on his luck he wants to die, but an angel shows him what life would be like without him in it. Why can’t I have dreams like that?

This year, I’ve got plans to read some seasonal and contemporary romances. Here’s my lineup

Snowbound in Sweetwater Ranch      by RaeAnne Thayne

His Christmas Miracle by Dani Collins

One Unforgettable Friday by Robena Grant, who is a good writer friend of mine.

I’m so looking forward to reading these books to help me get that holiday spirit that is so important this time of year.

COMMENT AND GIVEAWAY

What are you planning to read this December? Share your favorites and three commenters will receive a fun book mark, each with some great philosophy for how to get the most out life. 

In the meantime, don’t let the crazy time of year get you down, pace yourselves, eat some fruit and vegetables along with all of the delicious Christmas treats, and before you grab some shuteye each night, take time to do a little reading!

Until next time, make it a great one!

Lynne