Best Christmas Stories - Holiday Legends

It's the most famous Christmas story. And, whether you've experienced the original by Charles Dickens, or any of the hundreds of adaptations, you've probably come to know (and love) the tale of a miserly old man (Scrooge), and his transformation into a kind, giving and caring human being.

It's tragic, but also magical. It's a beautiful piece, but it also reminds us of those who are starving and hungry. She was unable to sell the matches, so she sits and sees the splendor unfold before her... I've read this story more times than I can even count, and the imagery stays with me.

The Gift of the Magi, by O.Henry, is a powerful story of sacrifice and love. Each of us is inspired to question whether we would give the thing that is dearest (and most precious)--to guarantee the happiness of another.

The Grinch is a version of Mr. Scrooge -- only huge and green, and many times more mean. It's a Children's story, by Dr. Seuss, but it's also become a favorite legend for readers (and viewers) of ages. The story reminds us all of the importance of Christmas: being together (no matter what the circumstances).

First published in 1895, the story is an addendum to the Biblical story, retold in Matthew (New Testament). The book centers around the fourth Magi (most accounts refer to 3 Magi, or Wise Men). His name is Artaban, one of the Medes from Persia. His quest to attend the Christ-child's birth fails, but his pilgrimage continues... bringing us to the realization/reminder: "Verily I say unto thee, Inasmuch as thou hast done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, thou hast done it unto me."

First published in 1952, this Little Golden Book is a bestselling classic. You probably read it when you were young, and now's your change to revisit the colorful pages, illustrated by beloved artist Eloise Wilkin, as well as share it with a new generation of readers.