Is There a Santa Claus?
by Jacob A. Riis (1849–1914)
- Free to read
- 10 min read
- 2 chapters
- Reading level: 6th grade
"Is There a Santa Claus?" by Jacob A. Riis is a reflective piece written in the early 20th century. This book can be categorized as a holiday-themed essay or children's literature, focusing on the essence and spirit of Christmas. At its core, the text addresses the question of whether Santa Claus exists but delves deeper into the idea of generosity, kindness, and the impact of the Christmas spirit in everyday life. In this heartfelt essay, Riis receives a letter from a child questioning the existence of Santa Claus, which prompts him to reflect on the true meaning of the figure rather than his physicality. Through anecdotes, including a memorable visit to President Theodore Roosevelt's White House, he illustrates how acts of kindness and compassion exemplify the spirit of Santa Claus. Riis emphasizes that Santa Claus symbolizes love and generosity, encouraging readers to spread goodwill and cherish the connections that define the holiday season. Ultimately, the book suggests that the spirit of Christmas lives on through these acts of kindness, proving that Santa Claus is very much real in the hearts and actions of people.
- Christmas stories
- Santa Claus · Juvenile literature
Read the opening
Is There a Santa Claus?
"DEAR MR. RIIS:
"A little chap of six on the Western frontier writes to us:
"'Will you please tell me if there is a Santa
Claus? Papa says not.'
"Won't you answer him?"
That was the message that came to me from an editor last December just as I was going on a journey. Why he sent it to me I don't know. Perhaps it was because, when I was a little chap, my home was way up toward that white north where even the little boys ride in sleds behind reindeer, as they are the only horses they have. Perhaps it was because when I was a young lad I knew Hans Christian Andersen, who surely ought to know, and spoke his tongue. Perhaps it was both. I will ask the editor when I see him. Meanwhile, here was his letter, with Christmas right at the door, and, as I said, I was going on a journey.
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About this edition
This free edition of Is There a Santa Claus? by Jacob A. Riis comes from Project Gutenberg eBook #31996, released 2010-04-15. It is in the public domain in the United States, so you can read it here in full at no cost, on any phone, tablet or computer. Genre: Children & Young Adult Reading, Essays, Letters & Speeches.
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