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This collection of three short stories by Truman Capote discuss his childhood and holiday memories, but also tap into something universal about our expectations for the holidays. Capote (aka Buddy) grew up in rural Alabama among a group of eccentric relatives, and with his best friend (and elderly cousin) Miss Sook Faulk. Along with Queenie, their terrier, the two celebrated the season both together and apart – and their experiences are explored in these three stories.
A Christmas Memory follows Buddy, Sook, and Queenie as they gather resources to bake their Christmas fruit cakes and find a tree to decorate their house. One Christmas tells of Buddy’s Christmas in New Orleans with his father, and charts the highs and lows of their long-distance relationship. Finally, The Thanksgiving Visitor shares with us a lesson learned by Buddy about civility and grace when his friend Miss Sook invites the school bully, Odd Henderson, to join the family for Thanksgiving dinner.
Throughout these stories, Capote reflects upon his friendship with Miss Sook, whom he simply calls “my friend,” and pays tribute to this formative influence in his life. This is a slight but moving and perceptive volume that explores the deep emotions that go along with everyday occurrences. This volume of Truman Capote’s seasonal stories is a great book to pick up around the holidays. Take a look!