The classic post-war family Christmas novel.
‘Superbly, heartbreakingly skilful … I was fascinated to the last word.’ Kirkus Reviews
It’s 1946 and young Clare Barnett, along with her cousin Lal and their Uncle Ted, are to spend Christmas at the country home of the Maitland family. Friends and family are looking forward to an ‘Even More Glorious Christmas’ than the last one they spent together before the outbreak of war. There is also a hint of romance between Nick and Tania, from opposite sides of the family tree. But the children’s enthusiastic plans to produce a Nativity play, and the happy anticipation of spending ten days of a peace-time Christmas together, soon turn into something far less festive.
It all starts with the simple matter of a duplicated gift, indelicately handled. As quarrels ensue among both the youngsters and grown-ups, old wounds are reopened, buried grievances are unearthed and secrets revealed. Will this be a Christmas to remember for all of the wrong reasons?
Funny, thought-provoking and poignant, GB Stern uses her trademark insight and wit to paint a realistic portrait of the innermost thoughts, motivations and foibles of children and adults alike.
‘Superbly, heartbreakingly skilful … I was fascinated to the last word.’ Kirkus Reviews
It’s 1946 and young Clare Barnett, along with her cousin Lal and their Uncle Ted, are to spend Christmas at the country home of the Maitland family. Friends and family are looking forward to an ‘Even More Glorious Christmas’ than the last one they spent together before the outbreak of war. There is also a hint of romance between Nick and Tania, from opposite sides of the family tree. But the children’s enthusiastic plans to produce a Nativity play, and the happy anticipation of spending ten days of a peace-time Christmas together, soon turn into something far less festive.
It all starts with the simple matter of a duplicated gift, indelicately handled. As quarrels ensue among both the youngsters and grown-ups, old wounds are reopened, buried grievances are unearthed and secrets revealed. Will this be a Christmas to remember for all of the wrong reasons?
Funny, thought-provoking and poignant, GB Stern uses her trademark insight and wit to paint a realistic portrait of the innermost thoughts, motivations and foibles of children and adults alike.
