Wednesday, December 22, 2010

'Twas the Night Before Christmas ... my growing book collection

I absolutely love beautifully illustrated copies of The Night Before Christmas. I wrote about my (extensive) collection in this 2009 blogpost and in this 2008 blogpost.


This past year I added four more delightfully illustrated copies to my collection. Three I happened across at thrift stores, but one I searched for and found on-line.


This weekend we had our first dusting of snow - just enough to make it feel like Christmas truly is right around the corner. That got me in the mood to get the books out.


So Baby and I went into my office, turned on Miracle on 34th Street...


...and went to work photographing them.


(click any photos to enlarge)

This 1991 version is illustrated by Jerry Smath. I am so glad I found it because the artwork is delightful! See for yourself:








Here is the next copy I found:


This copyright 1985 book has a Victorian flair, beautifully illustrated by Scott Gustafson.











Now the next book is the one I searched for (illustrated by Grandma Moses, copyright 1948), because in last year's comments J.G. suggested that if I didn't have this version, I should definitely consider adding it to my collection. She was so right - I love it!


The quaint, folk art style of Grandma Moses suits this story perfectly!









And last, but definitely not least, I came across this gorgeous version, filled with a variety of classic artwork from the late 1800's to the early 1900's.









So those are the newest additions to my collection.


And if you love this Clement C. Moore story and the various artists' renderings as much as I do...
... be sure to check out the links above to my previous posts about my ever-growing "Twas the Night Before Christmas" collection. You never know, you might just find a favorite version that you'll want to track down for yourself!

Comment: Bobbi, send me your email address so I can send you the information you requested regarding pop up books!

Donna

8 comments:

  1. Just beautiful! I own the one that's illustrated by Grandma Moses. I've had it since I was a child. I should dig it out. Thanks for letting us in on your latest purchases!

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  2. Beautiful books and illustrations! Funny how you can almost tell the era by the artwork. And Baby approves in the last photo, LOL.

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  3. Hi Donna...what a unique collection. I remember reading about it last December! I think I'd also like a series of books on your cat! She's so adorable I could eat her up like a Christmas cupcake. Why don't you write and photograph a book on her? Seriously! Susan

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  4. So glad you got some new editions for your collection. Isn't amazing how the illustrations can vary so much and yet be so perfect for the story? Blessings to you and your family, my friend. And to your new furry family members, as well.

    Merry Christmas!

    xo
    Claudia

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  5. Christmas Blessings to you and your family, From my mountain to yours Hugs and smiles Gl♥ria

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  6. What a wonderful collection, Donna! I never thought of collecting Christmas books like that - but it's an awesome idea! :) I can remember my dad sitting us kids down the night before Christmas and reading that to us before bedtime. Sweet memories..... :)

    xoxo laurie

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  7. Everything in your home is more beautiful with Baby in the photo! I dearly love that cat's personality!
    Brenda

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  8. Love them all. Can't you just hear those words ringing out on Christmas eve?

    All joys to you and yours,

    Sharon Lovejoy Writes from Sunflower House and a Little Green Island

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