A Christmas Carol was first published in 1843 and since then Charles Dickens' short novel has been turned into or become the basis for films and plays.
The very name of Ebenezer Scrooge conjures up images of a mean spirited old man whose only love is acquiring money and making economies – on such essentials as heating his office and paying his staff.
It takes the wiles of three ghosts to show Scrooge the true value of Christmas: charity, good humour and love for his fellow man. Throughout a long night Scrooge is shown the error of his ways, beautifully illustrated by the incomparable Quentin Blake.
Blake's style perfectly complements Dickens' narrative and characterisation. Some of the depictions of characters are in black and white while other scenes are given the full colour treatment.
This unabridged edition makes a perfect Christmas gift – it really is a wonderfully produced book that will make a welcome and treasures addition to anyone's bookshelves.
PWT rating: ♥♥♥♥♥
Quentin Blake's A Christmas Carol is published by Pavilion Children's Books.