Christmas Candles: Plays for Boys and Girls

"Christmas Candles: Plays for Boys and Girls" by Elsie Hobart Carter is a compilation of heartwarming Christmas plays designed for young audiences, probably from the early 1900s. These plays capture the charm and significance of Christmas through inventive stories filled with relatable characters. Exploring themes like generosity and the enchantment of the season, the plays often feature children and magical beings, such as elves, in imaginative settings. As an example, the play "The Christ-Candle" opens on a snowy Christmas Eve in a forest as children eagerly await St. Nicholas' arrival. Characters like Hans and Gretel discuss Christmas traditions and express concern for a family in need. To guide St. Nicholas, they decide to light a candle in the window, symbolizing the warmth of love and generosity during Christmas, creating a touching and festive mood that communicates the true meaning of the holiday.