Reading: A CHRISTMAS CAROL - Charles Dickens (author), Phillip Gooden (adapted by)

Prose (Story): This Easy Classics illustrated edition, by Sweet Cherry Publishing, of Charles Dickens's iconic classic Christmas tale re-tells - this time with a few bits from the novel not usually found in, say, the best-known film versions - the story of the miserly, miserable Ebenezer Scrooge, who through the late night visits of three spirits, finds redemption and his heart in discovering what Christmas is truly about. 

Don's (Review): The oft-told tale still manages to feel fresh here and will appeal to kids of all ages, largely due to the stylized illustrations that young ones will find cute and funny ... while adults like me, who grew up with Underdog, Clutch Cargo, and more animation from back when Saturday mornings were spent with cartoons on TV, will wax nostalgic over the broadly-drawn characters of similar style. The already-short novel is perfectly adapted to hold, along with the artwork, even the youngest person's attention, while older kids and adults will find this version one to return to repeatedly on- or off-season, due to the story's perfect length and message of always being kind, but especially at Christmas. Really glad Gooden included, as mentioned, a few tidbits from the novel itself that I had forgotten from reading it so long ago; a nice touch that somehow freshened up a story so many of us know by heart already. (Available September 29)  4.5/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.