Author: Samantha Silva
Publisher: Flatiron Books
Date Published: October 31, 2017
Genre: Historical Fiction, Christmas
Rating: ★★★★☆
My Thoughts:
- After writing highly successful novels like Oliver Twist and Nicholas Nickleby, the famous Charles Dickens has fallen on hard times. His current writings, Chuzzlewit, aren't doing so well, and his finances are taking a hit. Dickens publisher is demanding that he write a Christmas book, but he only has six short weeks to complete it. Dickens is very reluctant to write the book, and to top it all off, he is being a grinch about all the Christmas celebrations his family expects. Inspiration for his little Christmas book is everywhere, and while Dickens is finding his Christmas spirit, his book starts reflecting his journey.
- I really enjoyed this book. The Christmas Carol is a classic and one of my favorite Christmas time reads. I loved how Dickens ran across little bits and pieces of people and events that became part of his book.
- Most of the book is fictional, but I did learn a lot about the back story of The Christmas Carol. The author's note at the end was especially helpful.
- The middle is a little slow, but it begins well and ends well.
- If, like me, you are sucker for all things Christmas Carol around this time of year, then I highly recommend this book. It was humorous, hopeful, and full of Christmas spirit.
Trigger Warning: Grief
I'd like to read this one. :)
ReplyDeleteIt's a good one!
DeleteI feel the same way about this one—the beginning is great and the ending is beautiful. The middle is a bit of a slog. I, too, loved seeing Dickens gather all the bits and pieces that eventually make up A CHRISTMAS CAROL. I was just bummed that so much of the story was fictional!
ReplyDeleteI know! I wish this had been real.
Delete