It’s the day after Thanksgiving and it is now acceptable (here in the States) to acknowledge that Christmas is coming! One of my favorite traditions of the holiday season is to read holiday-themed books. One of my most beloved stories is A Christmas Memory by Truman Capote. A Christmas Memory is a bittersweet story that I try to read every year during the holidays. It is told from the viewpoint of a child, Buddy, and recounts his memories of his Christmases in Alabama during the 1930′s. Buddy and his cousin, whom he calls ‘my friend’ throughout the story, embrace the traditions of the season by scraping together all of the money they can find to buy ingredients to make fruit cakes. They make them for friends, family and even President Roosevelt. They also find joy in harvesting their own tree and making presents for each other. This autobiographical tale takes the reader back to a simpler time and introduces us to the unforgettable character of Buddy’s cousin, who was based on Capote’s real relative, Miss Sook. This is a gem that I highly recommend.

This year I am giving away a beautiful copy of this timeless story to one Gudrun’s Tights reader. The lovely illustrations are by Beth Peck and there is a CD included with the story narrated by Celeste Holm.

Please enter the giveaway at the form HERE. The giveaway is international and open until midnight, Arizona time, on November 29. One entry person. Winner will be chosen randomly and announced next week.

Let the Christmas Season begin!