I don’t normally read books based on a theme or the time of year, but this is more due to lack of organisational skills than any aversion to them. Last year I saw A Redbird Christmas mentioned by Michelle at 1MoreChapter and thought it sounded lovely. By the time the copy I got from BookMooch arrived, it was too late for that Christmas, so I stored it ready for this year. I’m so pleased that I got a copy, as it is such a sweet, heartwarming book – perfect for this time of year.
The story focuses on Oswald, who is told he has terminal lung disease. If he wants to survive until Christmas, he is advised to move out of the city and live in the fresh, country air. Nervously he makes the big move and finds a welcoming community, who turn his life around. You can probably guess what happens, but this simple story is such a pleasure to read that it doesn’t matter.
It is a short, but wonderful tale about the power of human kindness.
Recommended to everyone who needs a lighter, happier read at this festive time of year.
What is your favourite book with a Christmas theme?
Have youread any other Fannie Flagg books?
23 replies on “A Redbird Christmas – Fannie Flagg”
I love books like this once in awhile. I can’t take too much of sweet, but at this time of year I have a higher tolerance. Guess what I just started for the holidays? Fingersmith!
Sandy, I can’t take too much sweet either, but one is quite nice.
Fingersmith is perfect for the holidays. I hope that you love it as much as I did.
This time of year I like sweet, heart-warming stories or books with a holiday setting or theme. I only like to read one or two and tend to read the same ones every year because there are only a handful that I really like. But I’ve never heard about this one and it sounds like a perfect story for Christmas-time. I am familiar with Fannie Flagg ‘s book “Fried-Green Tomatoes” but never heard of “A Redbird Christmas”. Thanks Jackie!
My favorite book of this kind is an old one (1887) “The Birds’ Christmas Carol” by Kate Douglas Wiggin
Amy, I’ve seen the film for Fried Green Tomatoes (which I loved), but haven’t read any of her other books. I think I’ll pick one up next time I’m in need of something light.
I’ve read all of Fannie Flagg’s books and liked them all. What’s always seem funny to me is that growing up as a little girl, I used to watch her on “Match Game” – a game show from the 1970’s – so I always thought of her as a comedian. She’s an excellent writer!!!
I loved her Friend Green Tomatoes — but I loved, loved, loved her Standing in the Rainbow.
-beth
Beth, I didn’t realise that she was a comedian. I haven’t heard of Standing in the Rainbow before – I’ll have to keep an eye out for that – thank you for the recommendation!
forgive the typos above — I’m supposed to be doing something else here, and dashing off comments instead!! 😉
Beth, Don’t worry – I’m flattered that you are commenting rather than doing whatever you are supposed to be doing!
Jackie,
This was the best holiday book I have ever read. I’m so glad you enjoyed it as well. Happy Holidays
diane, I’m pleased that I started with the best! I’m not sure I want to risk trying any more now though…
yes, I remember her as a comedian too, and was surprised at how good of a writer she is. Loved Fried Green Tomatoes, so as much as I am adverse to Christmas fiction (usually so sweet it rots my teeth out) I might just have to check this one out.
caite, This will probably rot your teeth with sweetness, but it is nice to read something like this once a year.
I’m a fan of Fannie Flagg’s work, so I bet this is good. Glad you enjoyed it.
Kathy, I’ll have to try some more of her books soon. I’m pleased to hear that you enjoyed them.
The audio, read by the author, was a holiday treat for me several years ago. Not my usual fare, but perfect for the season!
JoAnn, I’m not surprised that the audio book is good. This must be the perfect thing to listen to if you’re driving home for Christmas.
I don’t usually read holiday themed books at all … mostly because I don’t think to get them and I have a prejudice that they are just too “happy” and “forced” to fit the season.
Jenners, I think I have the same attitude as you in general, but I don’t mind the odd forced, happy book once a year.
Sounds like the perfect story for this time of year! P.S. The bird on the cover is beautiful!
Kathleen, The bird is beautiful! We don’t have redbirds here, so I can only imagine how amazing they must look in real life.
Oooh this sounds a lovely read for Christmas. I will have to remember this for next year, well if I can find it before the 31st hahaha otherwise its on the list for 2011 hehehe. I have wanted to try Fannie Flagg for a while so this would have been a perfect short introduction.
So glad you enjoyed it — it’s a perfect read for Christmas!
Hmm. I’ve never really thought about reading holiday themed books before. It might be nice once in awhile. I really loved Fried Green Tomatoes (book and film) but didn’t love Welcome to the World, Baby Girl quite as much. In fact, I remember it as being just OK.