Book Club Recommendations for "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens

1. Thematic Discussion Questions

• Character Analysis: Discuss the transformation of Ebenezer Scrooge. What are the pivotal moments in his journey?
• Themes: Explore the central themes such as redemption, compassion, and the spirit of Christmas.
• Historical Context: Discuss the social and economic conditions of Victorian England as depicted in the novel.

2. Reading Schedule

• Week 1: Stave One: Marley's Ghost
• Week 2: Stave Two: The First of the Three Spirits
• Week 3: Stave Three: The Second of the Three Spirits
• Week 4: Stave Four: The Last of the Spirits
• Week 5: Stave Five: The End of It

3. Viewing Adaptations

• Watch various film adaptations of "A Christmas Carol" and discuss the differences and interpretations. Notable versions include:
• 1951: Scrooge (A Christmas Carol) starring Alastair Sim
• 1984: A Christmas Carol starring George C. Scott
• 1992: The Muppet Christmas Carol
• 2009: A Christmas Carol (animated) starring Jim Carrey

4. Festive Potluck

• Host a Christmas-themed potluck where everyone brings a dish inspired by the food mentioned in the book (e.g., roast goose, plum pudding, mince pies).

5. Theatrical Reading

• Organize a reading of the novel where members take turns reading parts aloud. This can be especially engaging with dramatic passages like Marley's ghostly visit.

6. Creative Activities

• Write Letters: Have each member write a letter from one character to another (e.g., Scrooge writing to his nephew Fred).
• Costume Party: Host a Victorian-era costume party where members dress as their favourite characters.
• Crafts: Make Victorian Christmas decorations like paper chains, homemade cards, or ornaments.

7. Charity and Giving

• In the spirit of the novel, plan a group volunteer activity or a charity drive. This could include collecting donations for a local food bank or volunteering at a soup kitchen.

8. Guest Speaker

• Invite a literature professor or a Dickens expert to speak about the novel’s historical context, Dickens’ life, and the impact of "A Christmas Carol" on Christmas traditions.

9. Discussion Prompts

• Personal Reflection: How do the themes of "A Christmas Carol" resonate with your personal views on Christmas and charity?
• Modern Relevance: How would Scrooge's transformation be different if it happened in today’s society?

10. Trivia Night

• Create a trivia game based on details from the book. Questions can cover character names, specific events, quotes, and historical facts about Dickens.