A Book for Christmas
by Selma Lagerlöf (translated by Sarah Death, Peter Graves, and Linda Schenk)
Published by Penguin Press UK – Allen Lane, Particular, Pelican, Penguin Classics | Penguin Classics
ISBN 9780241715062
This is a collection of stories, originally published between 1904 and 1933, written by a well-known Swedish author. It's the first time these stories have been translated into English. Having grown up in the US, I was familiar with certain kinds of Christmas stories. As I got older, I became interested in the seasonal stories of other cultures, but hadn't read any from Sweden, so I didn't hesitate when I saw this book. It did not disappoint! I particularly enjoyed the first story, which was based on a memory from when the author was 10. Her excitement about the fact that on Christmas Eve she would be able to burn the candle and read as long as she wanted was so charming and relatable. I think this story explains the book title. Not all of the stories are set at Christmastime, but it does say a book FOR Christmas, not a book of Christmas. I admit that I started the book expecting it to be full of Swedish Christmas stories, but after reading the first story, I interpreted the title differently so my expectations changed. In spite of the fact that not all the stories involved Christmas, I quite enjoyed this book. I liked reading about what Christmas was like in Sweden over a century ago. The folktale style stories were interesting, if sometimes somewhat disturbing, as folktales often are. In short, the book gave me a window into a time and place I had no knowledge of before and I really like that. I'm very glad I had an opportunity to read this book.
I thank NetGalley and the publisher for a digital review copy of this book.
6 comments:
I have never been part of a family where Christmas was celebrated much, but I am sure the stories of practices, rituals and other aspects of Christmas around the world are interesting. I am glad you enjoyed this book, Shari.
It was the cross cultural aspect of the book that I enjoyed most.
I may get a copy, I want to read more Christmas books this year.
Not all of the stories are about Christmas--just felt I should say that :-) The first story definitely is and I think that's the basis for the title because the girl wants a book for Christmas. I think it's meant to be a book that someone would get as a Christmas present, thus the title. Some reviewers were disappointed that they weren't all Christmas stories.
I like this books cover and from the thoughts you share here, I think I would enjoy it.
All the best Jan
It's an interesting little book.
Post a Comment