Book List – December 2022
December is a wonderful time of the year. It brings holidays that promote peace, love, and generosity. We are inspired to be better people. Nearly 1/3 of our annual giving occurs in December. You can read the stats here. For many of us, the December holidays are an inspirational time we cherish every year.
But…sometimes we need a little extra good cheer to go along with all the warmth and generosity.
Go ahead. Laugh your way through the holidays with these books.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson
The Horrible Herdmans are the worst kids in town, so when they take over the lead roles in the church’s annual Christmas pageant, they cause quite a commotion. (Maybe at the end you’ll feel that you can yell along with Gladys Herdman, “Hey! Unto YOU a Child is born!”)
In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cash by Jean Shepherd
The book that inspired the movie A Christmas Story.
Skipping Christmas by John Grisham
The Kranks decide to forgo the traditional trappings of a suburban Christmas and spend their money on a cruise, much to the dismay of their neighbors. Skipping Christmas is perfect for anyone who has ever wanted to head to the beach instead of decking the halls.
The Stupidest Angel: A Heartwarming Tale of Christmas Terror by Christopher Moore
Seven-year-old Josh Barker sees Lena Marquez murder her ex-husband Dale Pearson, the “evil developer,” as he returns home from playing Santa Claus. Meanwhile dimwitted archangel Raziel, who is sent to Earth to grant a child’s Christmas wish, discovers that Josh wants to resurrect Santa. Strong language.
Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris
A collection of six of Sedaris’ best Christmas essays. His take on working as an elf at Macy’s has become a classic. Some strong language.
10 Blind Dates by Ashley Elston
On the eve of her Christmas break, 17-year-old Sophie overhears her boyfriend say he wants to take a break from her. When her grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins get wind of her breakup, they are determined to find her someone new. They each claim dates on the calendar and set her up on 10 blind dates in the days leading up to Christmas.
Blue Christmas by Mary Kay Andrews Weezie wants to win the downtown Savannah Christmas window-decorating contest, but her shop’s Williamsburg theme is so-o-o boring. An Elvis song gives her an idea–a “Blue Christmas” display. The window attracts a mysterious nighttime visitor, and the competition triggers quirky happenings that guarantee Christmas is anything but boring. Third in a series.
Image Description: In the foreground on the left of the image, a small lit up Christmas tree sits on a table top with a stack of books. A bookshelf with a string of Christmas lights in the background.