The story behind the story

The stories behind stories are fascinating — whether they’re contemporary or historical, real or imagined.

I was reminded of that today when I listened to NPR. Diane Rehm (opens in a new window) talked with the author of The Man Who Invented Christmas (opens in a new window) (Crown) which examines the background of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and the time in which it was written.

A recent children’s book introduces Clement Moore’s inspiration when it ‘Twas the Day Before Chirstmas (opens in a new window) (Dutton). Author Brenda Seabrooke imagines how Moore came up with the poem (included here in its entirety) as a gift for his children. The text is complemented by Denala Bettoli’s illustrations which call to mind folk artists.

Reading this poem has been a tradition in our family, well, ever since I was a kid — a tradition that continues.

And there are enough illustrated versions of Moore’s poem for any taste or any mood.

Mary Engelbreit’s (opens in a new window)(HarperCollins) highly detailed illustrations have a contemporary feel but remain true to the original poem. Illustrations by Gennady Spirin (opens in a new window)(Cavendish)are almost nostalgic, transporting readers back to a long ago time. And of course there is Robert Sabuda’s (opens in a new window)(Little Simon) stunning pop-up version. And these are just a sampling.

Holidays and holiday traditions often start with stories. Regardless of where the story starts, the back story is always fun to share!