Book details
The Holy Night
Description
'What that shepherd saw, we might also see, for the angels fly down from heaven every Christmas Eve, if we could only see them.'
A picture book edition of Selma Lagerlöf's classic Christmas tale.
One cold winter's night, a cruel and hard-hearted shepherd is amazed by the strange happenings. A man comes looking for wood for a fire to warm his wife and new-born baby, and the dogs don't bite him, the sheep don't run away, and the fire doesn't scorch him. Following the man back to his cold grotto, the shepherd discovers the true spirit of Christmas.
Age
0-7
Text complexity
proficient
Length
40 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Enrichment: 'The Holy Night' by Selma Lagerlöf offers readers a glimpse into Swedish traditions and the rich tapestry of Scandinavian folklore, providing a cultural experience that broadens one's understanding of world literature.
- Literary Appreciation: Selma Lagerlöf was the first female writer to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. Reading her work allows one to appreciate the literary qualities that merited such an honor, including her narrative style, character development, and thematic depth.
- Spiritual Reflection: The story of 'The Holy Night' is imbued with themes of faith, hope, and redemption. It invites readers to reflect on their own spiritual beliefs and the universal search for meaning, especially during the holiday season.
- Historical Significance: Selma Lagerlöf's writing provides historical context to early 20th-century Sweden and reflects the societal values and issues of her time. Understanding these historical elements can enrich one's perspective on the evolution of social norms and literary movements.