Why the Chimes Rang: A Christmas Classic

Each of us has memories that surface during the season, memories that sustain that elusive and fleeting moment in our lives that was our childhood, with all the mysteries and warmth and love that infused our spirits with what we now call Christmas. For this reader those memories are closely tied to this wonderful little book By Raymond MacDonald Alden written in 1909, a story that vies with O'Henry's 'The Gift of the Magi', Dicken's 'A Christmas Carol', and of course Clement Clarke Moore's 'Twas the Night Before Christmas'. And while Alden is not in the same category of fame and craftsmanship of the others mentioned, for some reason the simplicity of this tale, coupled with an old 78 rpm recording of the reading of the story with music, brings back all that was warm and nurturing about the season. WHY THE CHIMES RANG is a simple and very short tale of a magnificent church with a heaven-reaching tower that contained beautiful chimes - chimes that had remained silent for years, awaiting the perfect selfless gift of one who pleased the Maker. 'Jewels nor gold nor crowns of kings could make the chimes ring' but the sacrifice of a young boy caring for his brother's wishes calls forth the music of the silent chimes. It is a tender story and fortunately for contemporary readers 100 years after the original book, Guild Press has re-printed the story with the original illustrations by Mayo Bunker. For those whose childhood included this book and for those who search for meaningful stories to share at this time of year, this simple gift is perfect - for children, grandchildren, or for self! Grady Harp, December 06

This is a truly endearing story about two young boys who dream of going to a special Christmas service at a somewhat distant church. It will take the boys all afternoon to walk to the church. Along the way they come upon a woman who has fallen in the snow and is in desperate need of help. The older brother stays with her and sends "Little Brother" on to the church for the Christmas service; afterwhich, he is to return with help. The Christmas Chimes in this church have not been heard for many years, but they will ring tonight. All because of two little boys, who in all of their innocence, truly understand about giving and Christmas.

I remember reading this when I was young--it belonged to my mother when she was a young girl--it has always been my favorite Christmas book, capturing the true meaning of Christmas and of giving in a simple yet rich and beautiful story. If I could have but one Christmas book this would be the one.

Listened to this story, on a" 75 record ", with my sisters in the late 1940's and has ment Christmas to us ever since.

This is what Christmas is all about!!! Children and adults of all denominations can enjoy the heartwarming message in this story. I keep buying it and giving it as gifts to friends and family. My grandmother read it to me and I intend to read it to my children and grandchildren.