'Tis the Season

Once the decorations are hung, the presents wrapped and the food prepared, take some time to sit by the fire and enjoy a good holiday story. Below are a few suggestions that range from a tried and true classic to a recently published mystery:

Busy Body by M.C. Beaton.  The latest in a popular, “cozy mystery” series set in the little village of Carsely featuring private detective Agatha Raisin.  Although Agatha isn't overly fond of Christmas her community usually celebrates in style.  But this year an overbearing health and safety inspector is trying to stop the decorating, declaring it to be unsafe.  When he turns up dead Agatha is called upon to clear the name of a wealthy woman who is the prime suspect in the stabbing. Also available in large print and on CD.

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. What would Christmas be without Christmas ghosts, Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchett and Scrooge? This enduring tale from Victorian England made Dickens famous and has never been out of print since it was first published in 1843. Make this an annual tradition. Also available in large print and on CD. And check out the 2009 movie, A Christmas Carol  starring Jim Carey.

The Christmas Sweater by Glenn Beck. Based on a personal true story, Beck examines the place of childhood memories in our lives, the importance of difficult life lessons, and the enduring meaning of gifts given from the heart. Also available on CD.

Redbird Christmas by Fannie Flagg. A little redbird named Jack is the center of this holiday tale about a small town in southern Alabama and the real miracles that happen when people look for the best in one another. Also available on CD.

Or if you prefer a true Christmas story, try Les Standiford’sThe Man Who Invented Christmas. In 1843 Charles Dickens wrote a small book called A Christmas Carol, hoping to make enough money to pay off his creditors. The book became an instant sensation and helped to reinvigorate a holiday that had fallen into disfavor in Puritan England.