Christmas Read-Aloud

I am always in search of a good, fun read-aloud for the children.  A holiday read-aloud is even better. 

One set of books my boys loved was Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle by Betty MacDonald.  Ms. MacDonald has also penned a perfectly lovely book called Nancy and Plum. 

Here is the description from Amazon:

It was Christmas Eve. Big snowflakes fluttered slowly through the air like white feathers
and made all of Heavenly Valley smooth and white and quiet and beautiful.

So begins the story of two orphaned sisters at Mrs. Monday’s Boarding School. But nothing is heavenly for Nancy and Pamela (aka Plum): their parents died in a tragic accident years ago, they’re constantly punished by the cruel Mrs. Monday, and they’re all alone for the holidays.

Luckily, Nancy and Plum have each other, and though their prospects may be bleak, they’re determined to change their lot for the better. If their plan works, the spirited sisters will never spend Christmas at the cold, dark boarding school again. But what will they find on the other side of Mrs. Monday’s gate?

Adventure, warmth, unforgettable characters, and unexpected kindness abound in this classic story by Betty MacDonald, which was originally published in 1952. With illustrations by the acclaimed Mary GrandPré and an introduction by Jeanne Birdsall, National Book Award–winning author of The Penderwicks, this edition introduces the spunky, beloved heroines to a new generation of fans.

We all absolutely adored this book, the characters were fun, the writing was exquisite and if you can get through the end without a lump forming in your throat, I applaud you!  Go check it out from your library today and you can get through it before Christmas!