The Christmas Candle

Written by Richard Paul Evans · Illustrated by Jacob Collins

A mysterious candle reveals unexpected truths, transforming a young man's Christmas journey into a lesson on family and charity.

4.2/5 Goodreads · 1,425 ratings

32 pages· 1,351 words· Est. 16 min read

$12.99Save 4%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

On a snowy Christmas Eve, Thomas buys a peculiar candle from a chandler. As he journeys home, the candle's light reveals startling visions, leading him to mistake strangers for family. Stripped of his possessions but enriched with insight, Thomas discovers the true meaning of family and charity. What secrets does this candle hold, and how will it change his life forever? This enchanting fable, paired with evocative illustrations, offers a timeless holiday message.

From the publisher

On a snowy Christmas Eve, a young man named Thomas on his way home for a family celebration realizes that the candle in his lantern is about to expire. He stops in a chandler’s shop filled with fantastic wax creations, but instead of admiring them Thomas scorns the chandler for wasting his time on sculptures that will only melt. The mysterious old chandler sells him a special Christmas candle. Back on the bitterly cold street, the young man is accosted by an old beggar woman. When he lifts his lantern to get a better look, the candlelight reveals that she is his mother. He gives her his cloak and only then sees the truth: She is not his mother after all, but a stranger. The candle tricks him again before he reaches home, cold and penniless, but richer for his newfound realization that we are all part of one family. This intriguing original fable about charity is accompanied by lavish, mood-filled oil paintings by artist Jacob Collins. Together, author and artist have created an exquisite holiday gift book that will be treasured by the entire family.

At a glance