A collection of twenty-two heartwarming stories set in Newfoundland and Labrador during the Christmas season by bestselling author Robert Hunt
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“Christmas is for everyone. It doesn’t matter who you are or what you do, where you were born, how much money you have or how much money you don’t have – It’s about Christmas and enjoying Christmas,” said Robert Hunt, the author of The True Meaning of Christmas.
The beauty of it all
Robert Hunt’s favourite time of the year is Christmas, and he wants to share what he sees in the holiday season with everyone. Hunt had co-wrote two previous books about Christmas: Christmas Memories and Christmas Treasure, and wanted to branch out on his own for another Christmas installment. Although he realizes that the Christmas season can be hard for some people, he accepts that as part of the beauty of it all.
“It’s a long, lonely time for people,” said Hunt. “And part of it is not only about gift giving and presents and whatever, it’s also about people who look back at their lives and see what every day accomplished. A friend of mine said it’s a time for break ups and new relationships. So, you know, it’s a sad time and a great time.”
The True Meaning of Christmas is a collection of 22 stories based around the different people’s holiday experiences. The stories are personal — like the story of Hunt’s grandfather coming to St. John’s to find work in the 1930’s, or based on folklore — like the tale of a woman going to Calcutta, India in search of a miracle. The story about Hunt’s grandfather, the first in the book, is also his favourite.
“The first story is about my grandfather and when he came to St. John’s in 1930 looking for work before Christmas, because there was no work for him around the bay,” said Hunt. “And he happened to fall into a piece of luck while he was there. It shows what people had to do in those days to not only earn a living, but just to make money for Christmas. There’s something in this book for everyone, once they read it and understand it,” said Hunt.
At times, the stories can be sad, but always have an uplifting message at the end. The overarching theme is the compassion we show one another this time of year.
“To me, the meaning of Christmas is love and kindness,” said Hunt.
Pass down the passion
Hunt has dedicated seven of the stories in his book to his grandchildren. He hopes that when they get older (the oldest currently being six), that they’ll read the stories meant for them and fall in love with Christmas like he has.
“I want them to look at it when they’re older and know I care so much about them. I wanted to write a story for them,” said Hunt.
Anyone interested in this tale of good times, self reflection, kindness and miracles can find Robert Hunt’s newest novel at flankerpress.com.