A Christmas Carol

I finally (finally) got around to reading Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. For a story I am so familiar with, it was a nice and comfortable read that was still interesting and engaging. I got my copy as a gift from my mother some years ago and just now got around to reading it. Loved every minute of this short little book. The copy I had included illustrations as well, which is always fun and one of those is presented below.

A Christmas Carol book cover

I was struck by how much of the dialogue has been used verbatim from the book to its many, many adaptations. That's the case with a lot of Jane Austen adaptations as well. It's a salute to the author and his or her work when that happens. Not only is it an indicator that it was well written but also that the dialogue is versatile enough that it works in multiple formats.

In my humble opinion, and in all seriousness, I think The Muppet Christmas Carol is one of the best adaptations of this novel. It's stunning how moving and poignant it is when that is called for.

Illustration from A Christmas Carol

I could have read this novel in one sitting but I think I knocked it out in two. It's a quick read and just cram packed with quality prose telling a wonderful story. I've got a rather longer Charles Dickens book queued up for reading but will discuss that one much later. For now, I strongly recommend A Christmas Carol for anyone who loves Dickens or good seasonal stories. Even if you know the tale inside and out, it is still well worth a read through. Merry Christmas!