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Christmas at Harrington's summary
Brief summary
Christmas at Harrington's by Melody Carlson is a heartwarming story about a single mother who takes a job as a department store Santa to make ends meet. As she brings joy to the children she meets, she also begins to find hope and love amidst the holiday season.
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Christmas at Harrington's
Summary of key ideas
Unexpected Opportunities and Second Chances
In Christmas at Harrington's by Melody Carlson, we meet Lena Markham, a young woman who has recently moved to a new town in hopes of starting over. Lena is struggling to make ends meet and is living in a run-down apartment. She is also dealing with the aftermath of a difficult past, including a broken relationship and a strained relationship with her family.
One day, while browsing through a thrift store, Lena comes across a beautiful red coat. She decides to buy it, and this purchase unexpectedly leads to a job offer. The store owner, Mrs. Beasley, offers Lena a job as a Mrs. Santa Claus at Harrington's, a prestigious department store. Despite her initial hesitation, Lena accepts the offer, seeing it as an opportunity to earn some much-needed money.
Embracing the Christmas Spirit
As Lena begins her new role at Harrington's, she is introduced to a world of holiday cheer and goodwill. She is touched by the kindness of her colleagues and the store's customers. Lena also forms a special bond with the store's owner, Mrs. Harrington, who takes a keen interest in her well-being.
Despite her initial cynicism, Lena finds herself embracing the Christmas spirit. She enjoys interacting with the children who visit Santa's grotto and is moved by the stories they share. She also begins to appreciate the joy and hope that the holiday season brings to people's lives.
Confronting the Past and Embracing the Future
As Christmas approaches, Lena's past catches up with her. Her ex-boyfriend, who is also her former employer, shows up at Harrington's, threatening to reveal her secret past to her new colleagues. Lena is forced to confront her past and make some difficult decisions about her future.
With the help of her new friends and Mrs. Harrington, Lena finds the courage to face her past and take control of her future. She decides to be honest about her past and is surprised by the understanding and support she receives from those around her. Lena also begins to mend her relationship with her family, realizing the importance of forgiveness and second chances.
A Heartwarming Christmas Tale
In the end, Christmas at Harrington's is a heartwarming tale of redemption and second chances. Lena's journey from despair to hope is a reminder of the transformative power of the holiday season. The story also emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, kindness, and the joy of giving during Christmas.
As the book concludes, Lena's life has taken a positive turn. She has a new job, a renewed relationship with her family, and a newfound sense of purpose. Most importantly, she has learned to embrace the Christmas spirit and the hope it brings for a better future.
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What is Christmas at Harrington's about?
Christmas at Harrington's by Melody Carlson is a heartwarming tale about a young woman named Lena who is struggling to make ends meet during the holiday season. When she lands a job at Harrington's department store as their temporary department Santa, she discovers that sometimes the best gifts come in unexpected forms. As Lena navigates through the challenges and surprises that come her way, she learns the true meaning of Christmas and finds hope for a brighter future.
Christmas at Harrington's Review
Christmas at Harrington's (2010) is a heartwarming holiday tale that captures the magic and spirit of Christmas. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Packed with warmth and nostalgia, it transports readers to the cozy small town of Parrish Springs, where Christmas miracles are waiting to unfold.
- Through the characters' journeys of love, forgiveness, and second chances, the story resonates emotionally and reminds us of the importance of family and community during the holiday season.
- With its uplifting messages and feel-good atmosphere, the book is a perfect choice to unwind and get into the holiday spirit without being overly cheesy.
Who should read Christmas at Harrington's?
- Those who enjoy heartwarming holiday stories
- Readers who appreciate themes of second chances and redemption
- People who like cozy, small-town settings and charming characters
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Christmas at Harrington's FAQs
What is the main message of Christmas at Harrington's?
The main message of Christmas at Harrington's is the power of forgiveness and second chances.
How long does it take to read Christmas at Harrington's?
The estimated reading time for Christmas at Harrington's is a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Christmas at Harrington's a good book? Is it worth reading?
Christmas at Harrington's is a heartwarming story that is definitely worth reading. It will remind you of the importance of love and community during the holiday season.
Who is the author of Christmas at Harrington's?
Melody Carlson is the author of Christmas at Harrington's.
What to read after Christmas at Harrington's?
If you're wondering what to read next after Christmas at Harrington's, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Happiness by Richard Layard
- The Wisdom of Crowds by James Surowiecki
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Simply Complexity by Neil F. Johnson
- Trust Me, I’m Lying by Ryan Holiday
- The World Without Us by Alan Weisman
- The Paradox of Choice by Barry Schwartz