"A Simple Christmas Garland Changes the Course of Events"
937174
This is the first of Anne Perry's "Christmas novels" that I have read, and it will not be the last. "The Christmas Garland" is Perry's tenth Christmas novel; it is an historical mystery set in India in 1857, soon after the tragic Siege of Cawnpore.  Tensions and emotions are prevalent and still raw from the bloody 1857 Indian mutiny.  Into this situation walks our protagonist Lieutenant Victor Narraway, who will become the future boss of Thomas Pitt (star of one of Perry's long-running series). Some readers have objected to it being called a Christmas novel, and I can understand that. However, I think the miss the import of the holiday season on the novel.  Although a bit dark and grim at times, "The Christmas Garland" certainly captures the mood of 19th-century India as England begins to lose her grip on the colony of India.

Perry's characterization and setting are excellent. The character of a compassionate, young Lieutenant Narraway gives us an introspective look into look this central character of many books to come.  Just as well done are the other characters who are involved as the reader begins to feel the growing tension and angst among this group of English soldiers in a distant land. Foiling the tension of the soldiers is a simple soldier's family - a young widow and her children, and, of course, the gift from a child of a simple Christmas garland. As we read, we seem to feel the heat and the dust of this distant land as it parallels the growing tension of the situation the characters are in. It is realistic, and ties in the Christmas season. Is it the spirit of Christmas that keeps them sane and human?

As another writer said: "Don't read this book if you are expecting a light fluffy Christmas tale. This isn't anything like that. It is a mystery set in 1857 India."  Still, the simple Christmas Garland itself as well as the season as important to the plot.  Regardless, it is a character driven plot that will cause you to keep turning the pages as your blood pressure rises along with Narraway's.
3637822
This is a nicely illustrated book with an important reminder of what living Christmas means.
4736525
Though this was to be gifted to another, I had to sneak a peek at the detail of these small in size, but anything but that in presentation, Christmas ornament and I have to say my breath was taken away with the design for details that carried-over after the coloring/painting of them.  They remind me of the workmanship I'd seen in Christmas ornaments, which during the time I was a child, that were already passed down meaning from a prior generation.  This adds not only to nostalgia but the magic seen in the eyes of and from the eyes of children who are looking at items that add to their future nostalgia for the holidays.  Not all amazing ornaments have to be from card companies (no disrespect as I continue to enjoy Christmas purchases) to begin traditions or to continue them.
2323617
A sweet little story with a much deeper message. A little girl adopts a forlorn Christmas tree the day after Christmas and from there, lessons in loyalty, faith, and giving and receiving love work their magic. Don't be fooled by "Christmas" in the title. Of course it's a Christmas story - but the magic contained in this story is meant for every day of the year! Curl up under an afghan with a child you love and share this story together. It can be read in all of about 15 minutes, with the warm feelings will linger much longer.
3757751
The quality of the book was fine however I was flabbergasted to discover that someone changed Merry Christmas to Happy Christmas in the story.  What in the world is wrong with people?
3335696
We enjoy this simple book to remember the season and discuss the true meaning behind christmas.  It's a great story with beautiful illustrations.
3199092
This novella is basically an update on what the various couples are doing over Christmas.
1333648
I never thought about what kind of celebrations they had back in the western days.  This book gave me an insight to just how wonderful a simple gift, celebration, could be. Looking forward to just a simple gift was like the highlight of someones life. This was quite an informative story on Christmas, how they decorated, how they celebrated and how they did it as a community. Good characters and friendship help make it delightful.
4557706
When a big shot Broadway director ends up directing a small town Christmas pageant it sure is a different point of view for her. People with a different set of ideas and cares. She learns how different life can be. Will she be enchanted by the charms of this small town community? I think you will really enjoy watching this video and finding out. I know I sure did.
3369834
This short story is very interesting to read. It is well-written and being conveyed in a diary style of narration. The storyline which centers on the idea of Christmas is very reflective on how we should celebrate Christmas. Very light and easy to read, this book is successful in getting across the primary reason why we should celebrate Christmas in our own small ways.
4303353
It has been a family tradition to read the Christmas Story from the Bible on Christmas Eve.  We have to skip to a different chapter in a different Book in order to read the part about the wise men who came to see the Christ-child baring gifts.  The holes in this special Christian account has always left me feeling like I was missing something.  This book has provided a possible filler for the Christmas Story.  Reading this book will become a new family tradition around the Christmas Season.  The story is full of colorful descriptions and riveting plot-line, which allow you to feel a part of the wise men's earnest search for answers, as well as the might change of heart they experience as they seek the Son of the One True God.
3835466
I'm enjoying this at Christmas. Just the right amount of decoration.
4165175
I like this one as it was a little different plot from the typical Christmas movies.  I recommend it.
2461044
Love the Thomas Track Master sets and this holiday set adds a festive spin to it.  The most noticeable part right off the bat is that not only does Thomas go around the track by himself he also now talks.  The track and obstacles are all winter/christmas/holiday themed, with the set being a somewhat largish circle, specifically designed so you can put it around your christmas tree.

It's a pretty simple set, few different buildings and activities, few bridges and other fun obstacles, but it's really just one large circle.  Lots of candy canes, wreaths, snow and evergreens top this set out.
2029114
it is beautiful and inspiring especially given the upcoming holiday season.  It helps those wh see it to remember the true meaning of Christmas.
1046903
It's fun to do something different this year and these postcards are just a bright change from Christmas cards.  The postcards are firm, not flimsy and the scenes are delightful.  They add an extra sense of joy in the Now, as well as a remembrance of things gone by.
225590
A perfect solution for transition from Christmas decorations and colors to cheer up the time from then into the rest of winter, it did the trick!  I was sorry I couldn't find coordinating pieces to match, such as tablecloths, etc.