A Christmas Story

by Jean Shepherd
A Christmas Story cover
Good Books rating 3.75
Technical
  • ID: 5210
  • Added: 2025-10-22
  • Updated: 2025-10-22
  • Reviews: 4
Reviews
app.thestorygraph.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
delightful 4.50

The reviewer found A Christmas Story to be a delightful and nostalgic read, capturing the essence of the holiday season with humor and warmth. They appreciated the book's ability to evoke memories of childhood and the simple joys of Christmas.

A Christmas Story is a charming and heartwarming book that brings back the magic of the holiday season. The reviewer loved how the book captured the spirit of Christmas with its humorous and heartfelt stories. It's a perfect read for anyone looking to relive the joy and nostalgia of the holidays. The book's ability to evoke memories of childhood and the simple pleasures of Christmas makes it a standout. The reviewer also appreciated the book's ability to bring a smile to their face and remind them of the true meaning of the season.

Quick quotes

    It's a delightful and nostalgic read that captures the essence of the holiday season.

    The book's ability to evoke memories of childhood and the simple joys of Christmas makes it a standout.

    A perfect read for anyone looking to relive the joy and nostalgia of the holidays.

app.thestorygraph.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
heart-rending 4.02

The book explores the mysterious and tragic story of Christopher McCandless, who ventured into the Alaskan wilderness and ultimately perished. Krakauer's narrative delves into the complex motivations behind McCandless's journey, offering a profound and unflinching look at the allure of the wild and the human spirit's quest for freedom.

Into the Wild is a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of the life and death of Christopher McCandless. The book captures the raw beauty and danger of the Alaskan wilderness, as well as the deep emotional and psychological layers of McCandless's journey. Krakauer's writing is both eloquent and heart-rending, providing a nuanced portrait of a young man driven by a profound desire to escape the constraints of society and find meaning in solitude. The narrative is not just about McCandless's tragic end but also about the universal themes of adventure, self-discovery, and the human condition. The book challenges readers to reflect on their own lives and the choices they make, making it a deeply resonant and unforgettable read.

Quick quotes

    Terrifying... Eloquent... A heart-rending drama of human yearning.

    Krakauer constructs a clarifying prism through which he reassembles the disquieting facts of McCandless's short life.

    Mesmerizing, heartbreaking, Into the Wild is a tour de force.

ruthlessreviews.com · Unknown · 2024-12-23
cautionary 3.00

The book is a cautionary tale about a young man who abandoned his family and possessions to live in the wilderness, ultimately leading to his tragic death. The reviewer finds Chris McCandless' actions foolish and immature, questioning the hero worship surrounding his story.

This book is a poignant cautionary tale about Chris McCandless, a young man who abandoned his family, possessions, and societal norms to live in the wilderness. The reviewer finds his actions tragic and foolish, highlighting his lack of wisdom and arrogance. The story raises questions about hero worship and the consequences of selfish decisions. The reviewer also discusses the impact of McCandless' choices on his family and friends, noting how his actions led to his mother stopping her prayers and an older man becoming an atheist. The book serves as a reminder of the importance of relationships and the dangers of self-reliance without wisdom.

Quick quotes

    This book is a wonderful cautionary tale. I will probably read it again with my daughter when she is old enough to discuss it. Unfortunately, I'm afraid the reason most people will read the book and see the new upcoming movie, is for a different reason. Chris McCandless (in the book, and from what I understand in the movie), is a hero and courageous for flying in the face of everything he grew up with to find a better way.

    After reading the book, I think Chris died because he was foolish. Intellectually bright, yes. Athletically gifted, yes. But he had no wisdom.

    The book quotes Chris' mother as saying, "I haven't prayed since we lost him." (pg. 202) An older man who befriended Chris, Ronald Franz, also says, "When Alex left for Alaska, I prayed. I asked God to keep his finger on the shoulder of that one; I told him that boy was special. But he let Alex die. So on December 26, when I learned what had happened, I renounced the Lord. I withdrew my church membership and became an atheist. I decided I couldn't believe in a God who would let something that terrible happen to a boy like Alex." (pg. 60)

lareviewofbooks.org · Unknown · 2020-12-21
engaging 3.50

The review explores the complex relationship between Jean Shepherd and the creation of A Christmas Story, highlighting the author's unique perspective and the enduring appeal of the story. It delves into the nuances of Shepherd's narrative style and the cultural impact of the tale.

The review delves into the intricate layers of Jean Shepherd's involvement in A Christmas Story, appreciating his distinctive storytelling approach. They find the book to be a compelling exploration of memory and nostalgia, with Shepherd's voice adding a layer of authenticity. The narrative's cultural resonance is noted, as it captures the essence of a bygone era. However, some parts of the plot are seen as thin, and the pacing could be improved. Overall, the book is praised for its unique perspective and enduring appeal, making it a worthwhile read for those interested in American cultural history.

Quick quotes

    Jean Shepherd's voice is a unique blend of humor and introspection, making the narrative both engaging and thought-provoking.

    The book captures the essence of a bygone era, resonating with readers who appreciate nostalgic storytelling.

    Some parts of the plot feel thin, and the pacing could be improved to maintain the reader's interest.

Appears in Lists