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This edition begins with a one-page introduction about Dr. Clement Moore and his famous poem.
The poem, originally a Christmas present for his children, is illustrated in this book with full-page spreads that reflect a time from the past. The first letter of the first word on each page appears in an old-fashioned font. These letters complement the antique vignettes that appear above the text. The writing is set against flower-patterned wallpaper backgrounds.
The three children in the family sleep in one bed under a patchwork quilt. Mamma wears a plain kerchief to bed; Papa wears a long, striped cap. They kiss by the light of a candle.
Peeking out of St. Nick’s bag of toys are a homemade plane and boat, a horn, and a teddy bear. He sprinkles golden magic dust onto the toys and plays with the family cat before he disappears up the chimney in a cloud of twinkly smoke.
Browning’s realistic illustrations reflect an idealistic Christmas Eve: a celebration of family and happiness.
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The Night Before Christmas