Inspirational
Edited by Amy Newmark
There are hundreds of titles in the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” series. Each book contains 101 personal stories submitted by contributors. These collections make ideal gifts because they appeal to a variety of readers. They also accommodate our modern pace: Each story is a quick read with a good lesson. This year’s Christmas edition focuses on tales of love, joy, and gratitude. If you’re looking for an add-on gift for a loved one or a present for an office acquaintance, this book does the trick.
History
By David Bercuson and Holger Herwig
Christmas Day in 1941 America was a somber occasion due to the Dec. 7 attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese, and the declaration of war by Congress the following day. Great Britain, and Europe as a whole, had been embroiled in war since 1939. This book journeys through 10 days of meetings and correspondences between President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Prime Minister Winston Churchill that changed the course of World War II and ultimately the course of history. A true historical Christmas holiday treasure.
Biography
By Catherine Curzon
It was the most famous romance in Hollywood, a town filled with famous romances. Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall surpassed the rest. Bogie and Bacall remain the epitome for romance after many Hollywood romances have long been forgotten. This book tells their story. A joint biography, it’s an account of their love and life together. Entertaining and informative, it offers insight and some surprising revelations about Bogie and Bacall, explaining why their story is remembered today.
Novel
By Eric James Stone
Luckily, Nat’s a CIA spy, so it helps his career. Then, he meets a beautiful woman who remembers him, and they fall for each other. A great adventure tale, it explores community, free will, and autonomy.
Classics
By Edith Hamilton
First published in 1942, this book remains a popular classroom choice for high schoolers and college students. It’s also popular among those interested in the gods, heroes, and other Greco-Roman and Norse mythic figures. Here in “Mythology” are the old tales of Odysseus, Perseus, Atalanta, and Aeneas, and myths involving love and adventure, triumph and tragedy, all told with clarity by this fine writer. The millions of copies sold of “Mythology” attest both to its excellence and its popularity.
For Kids
By Charles Dickens and Joe Sutphin
Dickens’s enduring tale is accompanied by endearing illustrations of woodland creatures offering young readers an engaging and cozy rendition of “A Christmas Carol.” No holiday season would be complete without the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his repentance and transformation. His life goes from one of greed and loneliness to one full of compassion, hope, and joy.
