Every year I like to choose a book to read during Advent. Many Advent reading lists include multiple books, bible readings, and other study guides. But I rarely had time for all of that. I’m lucky to finish one book in December–and that’s if I stay up reading all night on New Year’s Eve. So this year, I chose The True Saint Nicholas: Why He Matters to Christmas by William Bennett. I’d never even heard of this book, but a dear friend recommended it so I thought I’d give it a try. I love history and I enjoy reading about legends, and so far this book is living up to its hype and blurb promise. Even without the part where Saint Nicolas becomes Santa Claus, this man lived a fascinating life during times that were so unsettled they make the current world seem sane. Once I finish it, I’ll leave a full review. In the meantime, I hope you all have a wonderful December.
{Cover and blurb courtesy of Amazon}
The True Saint Nicholas: Why He Matters to Christmas
Beloved writer and speaker William Bennett brings the legendary Saint Nicholas to life in this fascinating and faith-affirming book that will change the way you think about Santa Claus and the meaning of Christmas. Bennett reflects on Saint Nicholas’s storied life, which has spanned seventeen centuries across Europe, Asia, and Africa, and reveals an inspiring tale of devotion to God and an example of eternal goodness.
The True Saint Nicholas: Why He Matters to Christmas focuses on three aspects of Saint Nicholas—historical facts from his life, his legacy in the centuries following his death, and the legendary status that transformed his likeness into the present-day jolly, toy-bearing Santa Claus. The book vividly captures the heart and life of someone who lived long ago—and yet whose life remains an inspiration for everyone to aspire to a higher order of generosity, giving, and devotion to others.
