Name: The Night Before Christmas
ISBN: 9780143122487

Nikolai Gogol

Tells the tale of a Christmas Eve in the village of Dikanka featuring the wicked mischief of the devil as he runs amok in the town and torments the town blacksmith, Vakula, as Vakula tries to win the love of Oksana.

The Night Before Christmas

Ilse

“The devil flew up to the moon, reached out and tried to grab it, but must have burned his fingers, for he hopped on one leg, sucking on his hand. He walked around it and tried again from the other side, and again jumped back. But the sly one didn’t give up: he suddenly grabbed the moon with both hands and, juggling it like a hot pancake, stuffed it in his pocket, and flew off as though nothing had happened.”

I thoroughly enjoyed this little novel! It was hilarious, charming and fast-paced. The twists and spins kept coming right until the end with such a delightful cast of characters that I couldn't get enough of it! Definitely a recommended read if you enjoy Russian literature and/or Nikolai Gogol's work!