Christmas Stories: "Jest 'Fore Christmas" and "The Night Before Christmas"

Celebrate the magic, wonder, and mischief of Christmas through two beloved holiday poems. The first invites listeners into a quiet household on Christmas Eve, where sleeping children, stockings by the chimney, and a sudden rooftop commotion herald the arrival of a cheerful visitor with a sleigh full of toys. Vivid images, lively rhythm, and warm seasonal charm make this classic a delightful family listening experience.

The companion poem follows William—or Will, Willie, or Bill—a spirited boy who loves sledding, teasing cats, and getting into scrapes, yet becomes “as good as he can be” when Christmas draws near. Told in playful, energetic dialect, his account captures a child’s calculations, comic adventures, and eager anticipation of holiday treats and presents. Together, these poems pair the enchantment of Christmas Eve with the humorous perspective of a mischievous child trying very hard to earn a joyful Christmas.