Because It's Christmas Eve...

...And I'm a sentimental old sot, I'm posting a classic reading for you. Yes I know that makes it sound like I'm not being creative, and I'm not letting a new author have a chance, but there are a few reasons for what I am doing in this post. Not that I really need to validate myself, or really give a reasoning for any of my reading choices. I read because I enjoy reading, but what are the reasons for to-days reading suggestion?

One is that I'm commemorating a memory, and letting you get a glimpse into some of the things that my family is interested in. So, now let me explain and let you in on what's going on today. My father has always liked to watch the old black and white Christmas Carol film when its aired Christmas eve, much to most of our groans and irritated demeanor's, the memory has stuck with me. Now, cable wasn't something we had then, so that's why we often watched whatever was on, which frequently included this story.

Another reason is because it's a well known story, but how many of us have ever actually read it? A Christmas Carol was originally written as a ghost story. In the past Christmas wasn't always about the shiny red paper, and the reindeer with a red nose. There was an undertone of 'the end' of things. It was a celebration during the coldest part of the year, when most things were frozen over, and people were kept inside due to temperatures. Oh, and back then it wasn't like they had tvs or radios either. People then shared stories. And often ghost stories were the most frequent ones told in the flickering light from the different flames.

Yeah, that's what I thought. I'm sure a lot of you have seen some of the movies based on this old tale. I can't even think of all the titles they've come up with, or the variations.

A Christmas Carol
Charles Dickens
82 pages

I'm sure a lot of you groaned, or have already realized that it was going to be this book. First published in 1843 it really is amazing that it has kept a hold over people's imaginations. As I read the first page of actual story (my copy included a preface and a short biography in the front that took up maybe 4 pages) I realized why it has lasted so well.

The attitudes of the characters are clear, and there seems to be different characters that each reader may love or agree with. (As long as it isn't Scrooge I suppose you're safe.) Impressively there seems to be a good many things in the story that appeal to me, even now. The language is great.

But why read it when there are so many movies based on it? For one thing, reading it is something that can be done in a group if so wished, enabling you to create new opinions about the characters. Not only that you can find ways to make your own interpretations of what a character would sound like. This would definitely be fun to read in the round, passing it around, and hearing how different people express a statement.

Anyways, have a good Christmas eve if that's what you're celebrating.

Getting into the Holiday Spirit

Why? Because I feel like I haven't been giving you enough Holiday themed reads this month. I'm sure none of you are complaining. But I would like to be able to offer you options that may appeal to you. And this time of year is the right time to try and read seasonally.

The Holiday Collection
published by The Indie Eclective
131 Pages

This book includes ten different holiday themed stories, by various authors. The variety of topics is refreshing, and there seems to be a story for any reader. The sad thing is that, some of us really need stories like this to remind us there is hope. People have a tendency to forget things that they don't like, or things they don't think about frequently.

I was personally intrigued by the "Snow Whisperers". It asks a sweet romantically inclined question: What would you give to be with someone you loved? It used familiar elements, as well as some new ones. For a short story, it really impressed me.

As a whole, the collection is a great read. There really are stories included for everyone. (I suppose the content list of the collection would be prudent to include.) I do feel that regardless of religion, there is a piece in this collection that will appeal to you.

The content list:
St. Claws by Alan Nayes
Snow Whisperers by Lizzy Ford
Saving Grace by Julia Crane
O Christmas Cactus, O Christmas Cactus by M. Edward McNally
Fred's Best Christmas by P.J. Jones
Fresh Snow by Talia Jager
Let's Ride by Shea Macleod
A Very Shero Christmas by Jack Wallen
The Darkest Night by Heather Marie Adkins

I don't think there's any reason to restrict the readers for this book. But and adult should read these through before they allow children to read any, as some of the content may be questionable. Very enjoyable though. I highly recommend this collection. I got my copy from Smashwords.com (just in case you're wondering where to find it)

I'd Like to teach The World to Sing

People are amazing creatures. We sing for fun, we speak, we make friends that last for a lifetime. Winter is a time when a lot of people start to feel nostalgic. Now I know that I try to post multiple stories together generally. But today I found a story that is speaks to me and reminds me of a number of my friends.

In the past, my family has gone Christmas caroling. Not that it's a bad thing, it just is what it is. You get cold, and you get cranky the longer your out. But on the plus side you generally get a cookie or candy cane afterwards. (yes i think that is just rewards considering you generally only carol to entertain and brighten up people's winter holiday.) We've caroled at hospitals with church and Youth Group, as well as an Alzheimer unit. It is definitely something to consider trying.

This story explores caroling in a way that is very charming. Because IMO anyone and everyone can sing. (That doesn't mean everyone is good, but everyone has the ability to try ^_~)

Songs of Lesser Voices
Christina York
16 pages

This is a very quick read that explores ideas a number of us have likely shared. The desire to fit in, to be able to do something that everyone else is doing. Only to come to the realization that there is a 'social' barrier, some unwritten thing keeping you from experiencing what you dreamed of doing.

This story explores an option, a solution you might say. It is adorable, sweet, and realistic. I think if you know anyone that has felt daunted at any point when it comes to singing, this story might be something that might cheer them up a bit.

So here's to merry voices! If you go caroling please let me know what songs you perform. Or, if you've gone in the past, let me know what your favorite song is. ^_~