Did you know it's a Christmas tradition in Iceland to exchange books for Christmas? To be specific, these books are exchanged on Christmas Eve, then that night and Christmas Day are spent reading and drinking hot chocolate by the fire.
How blissful does that sound?
This year, I propose we all do something similar. And while you could exchange a fun beach read (Siena Saint James Is Not a Spy, anyone?), why not conquer a classic this Christmas?
Pick Your Book
The best choices this year, in my opinion, are the Vocabbett Classics annotated editions of The Iliad and Jane Eyre.
You can read more about my translation of The Iliad here, but suffice it to say, this is the best English-language edition that exists. Homer leans heavily on implied knowledge, so most translations can be tricky for the non-classicist.
However, with my lively introduction and handy annotations, all you need to do is glance at the bottom of the page when a moment of confusion arises! No longer will eager readers be deterred from joining the Great Conversation by easily-explained phrases like "the sons of Atreus."
I promise, just about anyone over the age of 13 can fully understand The Iliad using this edition. Money-back guarantee if you're unsatisfied and all that.
Jane Eyre is another excellent option. Beyond the sense of satisfaction derived from conquering a classic, Jane is profoundly religious and celebrates Christmas near the end of the book. Win-win.
Again, I cannot recommend the Vocabbett Classics annotated edition of these novels more highly. I hated Jane Eyre when I first read it, but that's partially because she was so much smarter than I am. Half her references went over my head.
I liken it to watching a movie with countless little white boxes over parts of the screen covering up words you don't know. It's distracting and annoying. Make them disappear with the annotated editions!
Buy Two Copies (One for You, One for the Recipient)
When I was growing up, my cousins and I spent the summers together at the cabin. Whenever a new Harry Potter came out, my uncle would buy a box and we'd all find cozy place to read. Some lounged on couches; others preferred the hammock; some liked the floor with their feet up; others read tanning on the trampoline.
But we were all reading the same book, and that's what we talked about when we reconvened at meals (always careful not to give anything away, but conversations were loaded with, "Oh my gosh, WAIT until you get to the next chapter.")
Reading a book is blissful, and it's a million times more fun reading it with a friend. Do yourself a favor this Christmas: whatever book you're gifting, get a copy for yourself, too. You will both have so much more fun if you read them at the same time.
I picture mom, dad, and son reading The Iliad this Christmas all over the country, and it makes my heart warm. I hope you enjoy these books as much as I do!
Merry Christmas, and Happy Holidays!
-Erica