Sunday, December 15, 2013

The Christmas Mystery

The Christmas Mystery
by Jostein Gaarder

This book is best enjoyed in the month of December. The story takes place in Norway day by day in December as a boy, Joachim, opens the doors of his advent calendar. Rather than chocolates or small toys hidden behind each door is part of a Christmas tale. This story within the story is about a girl named Elisabet, who disappeared from her home fifty years ago and went on an adventure through time and space with a few companions. Their destination is Bethlehem, on the night that Jesus was born. They do not use a time machine, as this is not a science fiction novel, rather as they walk across Europe, time passes backwards. Joachim becomes increasingly interested about Elisabet's story as the month goes on, and shares it with his parents. As with other novels by this author, it provides you with a lot of philosophical questions to think about, including figuring out how the two stories are tied together. This would appeal to those looking for a thought provoking w inter holiday story. -- recommended by Kristen A. - Gere Branch Library [If you enjoy this, you may also wish to try Sophie's World by Jostein Gaarder.]

[ publisher's official The Christmas Mystery web page ]


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