I have just finished reading this charming book. For a few years after it came out, I read it each December as an advent calendar (it has 24 chapters). That lapsed in the last few years because things were a little hectic and December always runs away with me, but this year I made time.
The book contains a story within a story and certainly reminds me of the magic of Christmas.
If you had lived in Hamburg in the fourteenth century, or Venice in the ninth century, you might have glimpsed – just for a second – a strange procession rushing past and out of sight. There were, at different times, a little girl, a flock of sheep, shepherds, angels, a Roman governor and the Emperor Augustus, and they were hurrying to Bethlehem to see the Christ-child.
The little girl was Elisabet Hansen, who disappeared from Norway at Christmas in 1948. Years later, a young boy called Joachim opens the 24 doors of a magic Advent calendar and pieces together Elisabet’s story – how she was taken on an astonishing journey, not just from Norway to Bethlehem but back through two thousand years of history.*
Now all that remains is for me reach 24 on the church candle that I bought in York Minster. It is such a good quality candle it is taking a lot longer to get through than the book 
*From inside front book flap.
I don’t read much anymore.
I seem to nod off before finishing the first chapter.
But tonight, I have three candles burning. Don’t ask me why three.
No particular reason.
Yes there is, I only have three holders.
But they are so tied in with – Christmas.
I can remember sixty years ago – candle lit carol services – singing carols outside with lanterns, candle lit. Even our Christmas tree had real candles in those days!
So, Christmas and candles are inseparable for me.
Best wishes to you and Mum Cherie.
Have a nice Christmas.
See you next year.
Bernard.
I am still an avid reader and always have several books on the go.
I love candles at any time of year but yes at Christmas they are special. I have been out visiting friends and now I have a couple burning just before I go to bed. One is the advent calendar candle which has gone past the 24 marker eventually and one is in a Christmas tree. I need to try and photograph it so you can see what I mean
Thank you and my very best wishes to you for a Happy Christmas. I look forward to seeing you in the New Year
Wishing you and your family the best Christmas, Cherry
Thanks Anyes, I wish the same to you and yours
One for me to read next year
Merry Christmas Cherie, thank you for all the feedback, the lovely images, thoughts and places I need to visit. I hope you and yours have a great time 
X
Thank you too Chrissy, it has been fun and a pleasure
I hope you have a great time too 
Have a very Happy Christmas, C!
Oh… I am so looking forward to eating some Brussels sprouts tomorrow.
Happy Christmas to you too
I am rather fond of Brussels sprouts but they have to be cooked just right
Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Merry Christmas to you too