A Midnight Carol: A Novel of How Charles Dickens Saved Christmas

by Patricia K. Davis

Book Overview

The true story of the writing of Charles Dickens' holiday classic, A Christmas Carol--a fascinating novel, which could itself become a beloved Christmas tradition. This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0312245238
• ISBN13: 9780312245238
• Release Date: January 1999
• Publisher: St. Martin's Press
• Length: 198 Pages
• Weight: 0.65 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 5.4" x 7.3"

Customer Reviews

Historically Accurate?

I read this enchanting little novel and wanted more! I loved the way the author portrayed Dickens, he was a character worthy of one of his own novels, and my one complaint is that the story ended too soon. One caution I would make to readers is to remember that although this book is, as stated on the book flap, "fact-based", remember that it is in 'fact' a novel -- a work of fiction. I do not know the actual facts of the story, what parts of Dickens life at the time he wrote "A Christmas Carol" are actually represented in the novel, as opposed to the poetic license of the author to tell a good tale. But I will say that since this book is so entertaining, and intriguing, I now feel compelled to read a biography of Dickens to see how much the author actually gleaned from "fact". This is a compliment to the author. Her work stays with you, and in my case, makes me want to learn more. This is a wonderful story, and of course, a perfect holiday gift.

Read in one sitting

I read this wonderfully wrought tale in one evening sitting by the fire. This was an enthralling read with such wonderful descriptions as:"By December, the sun forsook the sky by late afternoon, taking with it heat and hope. Then cold blew in with its polar breath, hardening the ground--and human hearts--from the icy Orkneys to barren Dartmoor." It made me want to read more of the characters Dicken's was surrounded by in his life. This is fascinating all the more because it is based in truth. It was fascinating to me, to see the bleak conditions in Dicken's own life that led to his writing of my favorite piece of literature, "A Christmas Carol". It made it seem even more magical. :)

Reviewer from Savannah, GA

First, I must comment on the remarks by the reviewer in Carlsbad, CA. While everyone one has a right to their opinion, this reviewer's statements miss the mark. Indeed, Davis did not ignore the fact that Dickens had a distaste for upper crust Victorian England. How could you miss this? Furthermore, the story was wonderfully crafted. She brought Mr. Dickens to life on the page and by doing so gives us more insight into Dickens' wonerful classic 'A Christmas Carol.' Read the publisher's review to get a thumb nail sketch of the book, I wont reiterate what has already been written. I only add that it is an enjoyable, even delightful read. I plan to read it again next Christmas!

Historical Fiction at its Best! This book is a treat!

Beautifully written and well researched, this book makes you feel as though you are right there with Dickens trying to get his book published as scoundrels try to steal it from him and creditors are at his door. Within the story are historical pearls such as how Scotland Yard, in the middle of London, got its name and why an English policeman is called a bobby. The story is a fun adventure that leaves you with a rich picture of Victorian England and of Dickens as a family man and writer. I'm giving it to all my friends.

Davis proves fact is often more entertaining than fiction

Patricia Davis' novel about Charles Dickens and the circumstances surrounding his writing of "A Christmas Carol" is wonderfully entertaining and highly educational. She does an outstanding job of bringing to light this most compelling true story, using beautiful language that is very appropriate for Victorian England and yet quite easy for the modern reader to understand. Her characters are poignant and fascinating, and her descriptions of the newly-industrialized London bring The City to life. It's hard to believe she isn't English! This book is a perfect stocking-stuffer for any lover of historical fiction from age 12 to 120.