The original story written by O. Henry was published in 1906. I read this story first in middle school, but it has had such a profound effect on me that it is my all-time favorite Christmas story. I never tire of hearing this selfless story of how far a husband and wife will go to please each other. While it may seem to be all about greed, the underlying story is very touching. Around the holidays, you will find that others have picked up the storyline and given it their own twist. Some famous stars include Mickey and Minnie Mouse.
O. Henry’s classic tale of the wisest gifts of Christmas, brought to life by P.J. Lynch’s extraordinary art, is itself a gift to share and treasure.
In a shabby New York flat, Della sobs as she counts the few coins she has saved to buy a Christmas present for her husband, Jim. A gift worthy of her devotion will require a great sacrifice: selling her long, beautiful hair. Jim, meanwhile, has made a sacrifice for Della that is no less difficult. As they exchange gifts on Christmas Eve, the discovery of what each has done fills them with despair, until they realize that the true gifts of Christmas can be found more readily in their humble apartment than in any fine store. O. Henry paints a masterly portrait of unfaltering love, a haven from the harsh world outside. The poignancy of his story is captured in P.J. Lynch’s eloquent art, wherein every glance, every gesture, tells a subtle truth.
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