One Hundred Shining Candles

Betsy Nuse, the former owner of Boudicca Books, is a Vancouver poet,
writer, and editor.

This is a Christmas story set at a woodland homestead in Upper Canada in
1800. Told in Lunn’s literate and fluid style, it has the strong moral
underpinning of a traditional tale.

Lucy, inspired by the schoolmaster’s stories of elegant town
Christmas celebrations, decides to make candles as a surprise gift for
her poor mother. She and her younger brother Dan conspire, secretly
stockpiling supplies. When their first batch fails through lack of
co-operation, Dan trades a treasured penny for the tallow for the
second. The story ends triumphantly as the children surprise their
parents by lighting the candles on Christmas morning. Their simple love
and generosity illuminate the family and make the day so especially
joyful.

Grater’s full-color illustrations combine, to good effect, the subtle
shades of watercolor with the fine lines of pencil drawing. The subjects
are dramatic, amusing, and varied, and the pictures reinforce the
story’s warm and positive tone.

This is a traditional yet original Christmas story, one that Canadians
can be proud of and will enjoy.