Christmas list

Author: (USA) Neilson / Xia Fang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-09-01
Features: The protagonist of the novel is James Engel, who has just called off his engagement with his fiancée and is rushing back to his parents' home in Iowa for Christmas. In the local area, the Engel family is considered successful and wealthy, but James feels like a failure in both his career and love. Upon returning home, he learns that his childhood friend Mike has died in the Gulf War. At the funeral, Mike's sister tells everyone that Mike had always carried the list he made in fourth grade. Many of James's other classmates also kept their lists. Even when facing difficulties, the list reminded them of many positive qualities they possessed. Upon returning home, James finds his own list. I think you're smart and witty, he reads the words on the list, and you make me laugh until my belly hurts, I like you. He reads these words from the attic. He hasn't received such positive affirmation in a long time—or perhaps ever. Meanwhile, during his time at home, James reconnects with Sarah, a former classmate from his youth, who wrote something on his list that changed his life. J.B., you're an amazing guy, she writes, one day I will marry you. Love you, Sarah. Followed by a string of words like "kiss you, love you," with one or two smiley faces.