“I do not want the Baby Jesus to freeze.” Angela’s words are the central theme to this Christmas story written by Frank McCourt about his mother as a child. Seeing the baby in the manger at church, she doesn’t realize that he was made of stone. Angela fears that the baby will be so cold in the old, damp church that he may freeze to death. She plans to take the baby home and warm him up.One of the funniest parts in the book is when Angela has to throw the baby over the high fence into her backyard but accidentally throws him into her neighbour’s yard. What follows is a heartwarming tale of adventure filled with just the right amount of McCourt’s signature humour.
The main character, Angela, shows concern and love for others. At the same time, she must deal with the scorn and nastiness of her older brothers.
McCourt gives us a glimpse into the day-to-day hardships of life in Limerick, Ireland in the early 1900s. This is a Christmas favourite to be enjoyed by children and adults alike.
“Angela and the Baby Jesus” is available at the Huron County Library.
Note: Netflix has created a movie based on the book, called “Angela’s Christmas.” The movie is a joy to watch!