Santa, of course, is a modern commercial icon. But it helps to remember the original was a real pastor remembered today for his kindness and generosity.
It's good for kids to know there was such a person, and for adults to want to be such a person. And it is a reminder of how our own legacy might outlive us.
This brief "unofficial autobiography" of St. Nicholas is fun to rea
Santa, of course, is a modern commercial icon. But it helps to remember the original was a real pastor remembered today for his kindness and generosity.
It's good for kids to know there was such a person, and for adults to want to be such a person. And it is a reminder of how our own legacy might outlive us.
This brief "unofficial autobiography" of St. Nicholas is fun to read, even out loud by the fireplace. A "first person" account, this 40 page book puts Santa in a historical context, stretching back over 1700 years.
...more
Thank you Santa for the autographed copy of your life story and the true meaning of the things you did.In the beginning you didn't have reindeer or a sleigh. You were a bishop who did all he could for the people you cared for. You were born to wealthy parents and you gave it all away to people who could use it more.You were always giving children candy and fruit so that eventually they left their shoes out for you to fill.After you died and went to heaven, it was other people who added to your s
Thank you Santa for the autographed copy of your life story and the true meaning of the things you did.In the beginning you didn't have reindeer or a sleigh. You were a bishop who did all he could for the people you cared for. You were born to wealthy parents and you gave it all away to people who could use it more.You were always giving children candy and fruit so that eventually they left their shoes out for you to fill.After you died and went to heaven, it was other people who added to your story and the legend grew,flying reindeer and a sleigh were added as well as the red suit.How you are known today is so far removed from who and what you really were,it is great that you set the record straight.
I loved your story and have passed it on to my 9year old grandson who is a reader like me. I hope he finds it a "good read" like I did.
...more
The story behind Santa Claus has recently piqued my interest. The Santa Papers was my very first introduction to the man behind the myth. Mr. Metts has crafted a unique storytelling style in which St. Nicholas tells his own story. The result is an easy to read, interesting overview of a man we all know of but know little about. The Santa Papers could be wonderfully utilized as a family devotional. If read chapter at a time it could lead to discussions of generosity, selflessness, devotion, self-
The story behind Santa Claus has recently piqued my interest. The Santa Papers was my very first introduction to the man behind the myth. Mr. Metts has crafted a unique storytelling style in which St. Nicholas tells his own story. The result is an easy to read, interesting overview of a man we all know of but know little about. The Santa Papers could be wonderfully utilized as a family devotional. If read chapter at a time it could lead to discussions of generosity, selflessness, devotion, self-control and the importance of maintaining a good attitude during trying situations.
All in all I like The Santa Papers very much. It told St. Nick's story well but left me with a desire to learn more about this fascinating man. I think that's the mark of a story well told and a life well lived.
...more
I have to say that I one this book via FIRST READS.
The title of the book states what the premise of the story is about. It is written in the voice of St. Nicholas.
The author states that there are minor alterations regarding facts in the historical records and he has verified information against ancient manuscripts and contemporary books detailing how St. Nicholas became Santa.
In my opinion, when my daughter stopped "believing" in Santa yet wanted to know more about the "Man, the Myth, the Legend
I have to say that I one this book via FIRST READS.
The title of the book states what the premise of the story is about. It is written in the voice of St. Nicholas.
The author states that there are minor alterations regarding facts in the historical records and he has verified information against ancient manuscripts and contemporary books detailing how St. Nicholas became Santa.
In my opinion, when my daughter stopped "believing" in Santa yet wanted to know more about the "Man, the Myth, the Legend," I would have used this story to explain a few of her questions. I enjoyed the read and I know we would have enjoyed reading it together.
...more
I married into a family that celebrates St. Nicholas's day. I've read tidy paragraphs here and there over the years with the basics about Nicholas of Myra's life and (good) deeds. This is the first time I've read of St. Nicholas as more than the mythical gift giver. In this slim little book he is real. Breathing and flawed. Metts is a great storyteller. He draws us into the world of Nicholas and the key events that shaped his life using small, ordinary details to create extraordinary images. Thi
I married into a family that celebrates St. Nicholas's day. I've read tidy paragraphs here and there over the years with the basics about Nicholas of Myra's life and (good) deeds. This is the first time I've read of St. Nicholas as more than the mythical gift giver. In this slim little book he is real. Breathing and flawed. Metts is a great storyteller. He draws us into the world of Nicholas and the key events that shaped his life using small, ordinary details to create extraordinary images. This will be our family's Advent readings this year. And for many years to come
...more
A very sweet little book about the story of St Nicholas.
It's a short book, it can be read in no time at all and reminds readers that Christmas should be treated as a gracious and unselfish holiday....instead of a commercial/marketable one.
I will keep this book for my son to read as he gets older. It would be a nice story to read out loud at Christmas time with the family.