Since it was first published anonymously in 1823, the poem “The Night Before Christmas” has enchanted children with the story of St. Nicholas climbing down the chimney and filling all the stockings before springing back to his sleigh. Many families read the poem every year, and now they have an edition to treasure. The poem, faithfully reproduced here, is accompanied by Charles Santore’s lavish illustrations.

About the Author

Charles Santore is a renowned illustrator and his many awards include the Society of Illustrators Award of Excellence, the Alumni Award of the Philadelphia College of Art, and the Hamilton King Award. Charles Santore's illustrations are part of the permanent collections of the Brandywine River Museum, Chadds Ford, PA; The Free Library of Philadelphia; New York City's Museum of Modern Art; The United States Department of the Interior and many private collections.

Industry Reviews

"Santore has illustrated many classic stories, including Snow White, The Wizard of Oz, and The Little Mermaid, and he now brings to life Moore’s 'A Visit from St. Nicholas' in characteristically elegant and detail-rich paintings. His is a very traditional vision, as he brings readers inside a stately colonial home, tastefully appointed with wreaths, garlands, and stockings. In a particularly nice bit of design, when the narrator 'Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash,' readers can do the same, opening a double-page gatefold that reveals a quiet village blanketed by snow—and a sleigh silhouetted against the moon. It’s a gorgeous interpretation of a beloved holiday classic. All ages. (Oct.)"
--Publisher's Weekly, starred review