Holiday Reading Challenge -- It's a Wonderful Life: A Memory Book

By Stephen Cox

From the book jacket:

"As full as a Christmas stocking, It's a Wonderful Life: A Memory Book takes you behind the snowy scenes of Frank Capra's magical film starring Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed, and Lionel Barrymore to make the story come alive in a new way. The film premiered in December 1946 and was nominated for five Academy Awards. Today, it sparkles as one of Hollywood's most brilliant ornaments, a treasured gift for generations of movie lovers to eagerly unwrap each year. Indeed, it has become as much a part of the holiday season as the man in the red suit himself."

This book is amazing! I love watching this movie every year and I found out so much information from reading "It's a Wonderful Life: A Memory Book!"

For example, I was surprised to find out Frank Capra didn't originally plan for it to be a Christmas movie. It was slated to hit the theaters at the end of January, but it was pushed forward at the last minute.

The book also delved behind the scenes and included short interviews with some of the actors and actresses. The author also talked about others who were considered for the various parts in the movie.

Plus, there are lots and lots of photos!

Apparently, when the movie first appeared, there were mixed reactions from the critics ... and there still are today. Most people either love it or hate it. Those who don't like the movie tend to think it's too cheesy or hokey.

Well, OK, but isn't that the point of holiday films? Aren't they meant to make us feel good and reinforce our beliefs in the good of mankind? If that's hokey, I'll take it over the doom and gloom any day.

I love Christmas movies and books -- even the cheesy ones. So, I'll keep watching and reading!

Thanks, Turner Publishing, for the opportunity to add this cheesy, hokey book to my shelf! I, for one, love the movie and I really liked this book!