Angels Stars and Trees: Tales of Christmas Magic by John Forrest
In the tradition of O. Henry’s “The Gift of the Magi,” the seven stories in this collection capture that special time of the year when people become larger than themselves, when the atmosphere crackles with anticipation, when miracles do happen. Based on the author’s memories of Christmases in 1950s through 1970s Canada, the stories all in one way or another evoke nostalgic reminiscences of home and family. Each story is richly complemented by an original, full-page Tim Steven illustration.
What the reviewers say:
John Forrest’s direct story telling style evokes poignant memories of Christmases past. His charming characters, sympathetic and believable, spring to life on the pages. This anthology should be added to your annual list of holiday favourites
—Lyn Mody, Librarian (retired) Simcoe County D.S.B.
The true spirit of Christmas is evident in these nostalgic tales. We can truly feel the emotions of the characters and the stories evoke the memory of a kinder, gentler time, when “doing good” and thinking of others was part of everyday life and the holiday season.
—Barbara Lewis, Library Co-ordinator Rama Mnjikaning Public Library
We call him our story elf. With his simple, sincere tales, John Forrest reconnects us with the lost bits of Christmas that breathe meaning into all the fuss.
—Mark Bisset, Managing Editor, The Orillia Packet & Times
Sweet, personal, and thoroughly Canadian. Forrest finds the quiet, special moments that reveal the best in people. You'll enjoy.
—Julie E. Czerneda, Award-winning author of Reap the Wild Wind.
A picture paints a thousand words, whereas John's words paint a thousand heart-warming pictures of the joy the Christmas season brings!
—Rob Reid, Broadcaster/actor/writer
Forrest has offered to readers touching tales of Christmas magic and memory, with the hope that they will awaken those that abide in your heart. Read on!
—Lloyd Dennis, OC, Author and Educator
John Forrest has shared eloquently and beautifully his childhood Christmas memories. Reading these wonderful tales has become a Christmas family tradition in our home and my classroom.
—Lindsey Blackwell, Parent and Teacher
These tales should become seasonal classics; right up there with “Christmas Carol” and “The Grinch.”
—Craig Cook, Educator and Spiritual Coach
John Forrest's Christmas tales have cheered readers widely in
The Belleville Intelligencer, Capper's, CBC Radio One (“First Person Singular,” “Ontario Morning,” “Richardson’s Roundup”), Chicken Soup For The Christmas Soul, The Front Porch, Good Old Days Christmas Special Anthology, The Orillia Packet and Times, Orillia Today Metroland News, The Pembroke Observer, Reminisce Christmas Book, Reminisce Extra, The St. Catharine’s Standard, The Sudbury Star, The Toronto Sun, The Tribune
Excerpt
Click here for a taste of what's inside . . .
Now Available!
Book Details
September, 2007; 2nd printing October, 2008
ISBN 1-896350-25-9, 978-1-896350-25-7
6x9, 120 pages, Hardcover
$25.00 CDN
7 interior b/w illustrations by Tim Steven