Miriam Leblanc

Thanks to LibraryThing & Plough Publishing House for an advance reader's copy. All comments and opinions are my own.

This was a beautiful collection of short stories with the common theme of Christmas. It would make a wonderful gift for a family, and what a lovely tradition to gather round in the days before Christmas and read a story together each evening. There are 20 short stories, some longer than others, but each ultimately touching the heart as it conveys the true meaning of Christmas - treating people with kindness. Most of the stories were poignant, gentle, and seemed to be taken from a variety of folk tales, legends, and everyday people, representative of various countries and time periods. Writers include Madeleine L'Engle, Pearl S. Buck, Henry van Dyke and many authors I wasn't familiar with, but all were skilled.

While I enjoyed the book, I am taking off a star for the illustrations that introduce each story. They were done as black and white woodcuts, and almost all of them were scary looking and rather ugly. They presented the opposite of the warm and compassionate emotions you would feel while reading this collection. I kept asking myself: who chose this illustrator? Why use artwork that transmits harshness and fear?

But don't let the illustrations deter you, as this is ultimately a book of warmth and spiritual integrity that will resonate with readers of all ages, for years to come.

A special quote by Emmy Arnold introduces the book, and sets the stage for the stories on the following pages: "Even though Christmas is exploited for profit, even though its meaning is often corrupted, it is still the time of year that we feel the impulse to think of others. It is still the season of anticipation and joy. The brightness and fragrance of a Christmas tree under which gifts are laid - here is light and warmth; here is life and love."… (more)

“Home for Christmas” is a delightful collection of 20 tales, each by a different author, having some connection to Christmas. They extend from 8 to thirty pages. A few may seem familiar, the development of some predictable, but a few surprises add spice to the anthology. Drawn from a variety of cultures, each presents the spirit of Christmas in its own unique way.

I started reading this during the last week in Advent and planned to stop on Christmas or the day after and move on to the book for my next book club meeting. When my deadline came, I did not want to set it aside. I could read for another day, savor it for two, oh heck, the book club can wait until I have drawn every sip of enjoyment from this one.

“Home for Christmas” is a joy during the holiday season, or anytime you need your spirits lifted or a little of the magic of Christmas.

I did receive a free copy of this book without an obligation to post a review.… (more)