Laugh out loud funny. Takes me right back to my childhood in the Midwest ( )

I watch "A Christmas Story" quite frequently each Christmas season, as I am sure that many Americans do. For some time, I have taken note as it begins that it is based on this book, and have been interested in seeking it out and reading it. I finally did it this Christmas season (2017).

The book has a few chapters, and a few parts of chapters that are reflected in the movie. These reflections are sometimes very clear, and sometimes they are dim reflections. The movie is very cheerful and funny. The book has funny parts, but it also has reflective, sad, and observant moods. Personally, I really enjoyed these viewpoints.

The storyteller proclaims that the book is a work of fiction, but even a casual search about the book's background indicates that it is semi-autobiographical. The view points are from various ages between around 7 to maybe 16 or so, as well as viewpoints of a grown man talking to an old friend and reminiscing. We therefore get Indiana depression era reminisces mixed in with what seems to be mid 60's reflections about mid-America and New York (where the storyteller currently resides). I found the mixture of these reflections to be thought educing and enjoyable.

The book is laid out in a manner of a man returning to his old haunt, and grateful that it is only for a short visit. The charms of the place are covered with the mundane and the muck of normal life in a blue collar area. Shepherd relates stories of the cold (which is ever present, and I can attest to as I lived nearby in Wisconsin during the winter), boyhood experiences such as candy, sports, various school adventures, blind dates, and then some adult experiences from the perspective of a boy such as fireworks, fishing, and taxes. The story about taxes is particularly poignant, especially as it is told pretty straight forward. This quote was one of my favorites, which came at the conclusion of that story: " I'll tell you one thing," flick said, "I Keep up with the bills. I don't owe nobody..."

This type of book brings me great enjoyment, fulfillment, and often brings about a self-awareness and introspection. Perhaps it was even stronger because of the time of year that I read it. ( )

I liked this much less than the movie, "A Christmas Story." ( )

A CHRISTMAS STORY was based from this book - great read! ( )

Typical Shepherd, very funny and nostalgic ( )