"Would that Christmas lasted a whole year as it ought."
So wrote Charles Dickens in this, his first Christmas story. In 1835, he had the novel idea that Christmas should be a family celebration, including forgiveness, fun, gifts and feasting. The book includes menus and Dickens family recipes adapted by the well-known food writer Alice Ross. The story is introduced by esteemed Dickens biographer Peter Ackroyd, chief literary critic of The Times of London.
"This modern edition of Dickens' A CHRISTMAS DINNER illuminates Victorian holiday celebrations. this handsome book is a feast for the eye as well as a practical guide for the modern cook" ---John Jordan, director of The Dickens Project, University of California.
"This beautifully-illustrated book brings a little-known and terrific Christmas story by Charles Dickens to new readers. It's a gift both to culinary professionals and to everyone who enjoys the magic of Christmas." -- Andrew F. Smith, editor of THE OXFORD COMPANION TO AMERICAN FOOD AND DRINK.