For many of us, one of our favorite ways to spend time during the holiday season is curling up with one of our favorite holiday books. Over the years, the Chets Creek December Book of the Month has often been a holiday themed selection. This year, because good readers sometimes choose to reread books we know we love, we spent time together remembering and enjoying many holiday books, some old and some new, some silly and some sad.
One of the oldest and most beautiful stories, The Little Match Girl, was written by Hans Christian Anderson and first published in 1845. It takes place on the wintry evening streets from long, long ago. As with many fairy tales and traditional tales, the story of this poor, lonely girl has been told and retold many times throughout the years. In some versions, it is New Year's Eve. In others, it is Christmas Eve. In some, it is just any winter night.
As with some of Hans Christian Andersen's other popular stories The Little Mermaid and Thumbelina, for instance, this beautiful story has been made into short films many times in history. Perhaps the most beautiful version of this story is told entirely without words. Take a few moments to watch Disney's version of this timeless classic and read Hans Christian Andersen's story. Make sure to have your tissues handy!
Do you think consider this a happy or sad ending?
What do you think the theme of this story is?
Does this story remind you of any other books you've read?
