So, there I was, telling about ninety fourth graders Dickens' Christmas Carol. I've got my retelling down to about forty minutes, which includes a brief prologue about Dicken's life as a child, so they can get a glimpse into what might have influenced him as a writer.
Truly, it is a great story that keeps children on the edge of their seats, even if they've seen a version or two of it on TV. At then end, I asked the students about what they thought the theme of A Christmas Carol might be, you know, just to be literary and all.
What do you think Dickens' message to people was? Do you think he has a secret meaning in his story?
Ben's hand popped into the air.
Me: (handing microphone over to adorable, freckled fourth grade boy). Yes, Ben? What do you think that Charles Dickens was trying to tell people?
Ben: He was trying to tell people that if you are greedy and don't share, ghosts will come back from the grave and haunt you!
Yeah, I think that pretty well sums it up.
Sharing is caring!
hrh
P.S. Yes, I have seen the very scary version of A Christmas Carol with Jim Carrey. I think it went a little over the top....what with the demon horses and all. I prefer the Muppet version with Michael Caine....and Kermit and Piggy as the Crachits.
6 comments:
Ha! Yes, I'd say Ben was succinct and got the most important plotline!
Hope you feel better soon and can enjoy your Christmas, Shelley.
The Muppet Christmas Carol is my favorite interpretation. I also really like Mickey's Christmas Carol, but the Muppets are the best!
I haven't seen the Jim Carrey version. It's a very long wait on my Netflix queue, so I won't get it before Christmas. I'll wait and watch it next year.
Get well, Shelley!
I watch the Muppets version on Christmas every year! :)
I liked "Scrooged" with Bill Murray, way back when. It was funny but the story was still really true to the original.
Well, I see Ben's point - bad stuff happens when you don't share.
Great story!
Merry Christmas to you!
Tricia-I know! I laughed so hard.
Laura-Mickey's is good, too...and it's short, which I like.
Steph-I haven't had my dose of muppets this year yet. Maybe today.
Lydia-I totally loved Scrooged way back when. Bill Murray was such a crack-up.
Anne-Quite true, don't you think? Happy HOlidays!
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