The Trippertrots' Christmas by Howard R. Garis
The story revolves around the Trippertrot family celebrating Christmas with joy and generosity. Mary, Tommy, and Johnny Trippertrot, along with a jolly sailor with a wooden leg, enjoy a festive morning filled with gifts and happiness. The children receive various toys, and the sailor is gifted practical items and money for a new wooden leg. The family shares a warm Christmas spirit, emphasizing the joy of giving and receiving. As the day progresses, the children play a game of choosing imaginary possessions from what they see outside. Mary initially chooses a boy and a girl who appear poor and unhappy. The sailor, touched by their plight, decides to make them happy. Inspired by his kindness, the Trippertrot children gather toys, food, and money to give to the less fortunate children. The story highlights themes of compassion and the true spirit of Christmas, as the Trippertrots and the sailor extend their celebration to include those in need. The narrative ends with the children and the sailor setting off to bring joy to the poor boy and girl, leaving the reader with a sense of anticipation for the continuation of their adventure.
By Howard R. Garis · First published 1912 · Genre: Children's Literature, Holiday Fiction, Family Fiction · 2,306 words
First lines
"Merry Christmas! " cried Mary Trippertrot, as she jumped out of bed on Christmas morning.
"Merry, merry Christmas! " shouted Tommy.
What this Textopian page supports
The Trippertrots' Christmas is listed on Textopian as a short story by Howard R. Garis, dated 1912 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Howard R. Garis
- Date: 1912 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Children's Literature, Holiday Fiction, Family Fiction, Humor, Adventure
- Length: 2,306 words
- Structure: 1 section, 55 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Trippertrots' Christmas by Howard R. Garis
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Genres
- Children's Literature — The narrative style, language, and moral lessons are clearly aimed at a young audience.
- Holiday Fiction — The story centers on Christmas celebrations, traditions, and the spirit of giving.
- Family Fiction — The plot focuses on family interactions, community, and the transformative power of shared celebrations.
- Humor — The whimsical characters and playful tone contribute to a light-hearted, amusing narrative.
Tags
Christmas · holiday · children's literature · classic · festive · winter · family · storybook · fantasy · tradition · adventure · whimsy
More by Howard R. Garis
- The Second Adventures of Uncle Wiggily (1914)
- Uncle Wiggily on the Farm (1903)
- Uncle Wiggily's Silk Hat (1923)
- Uncle Wiggily's Fishing Trip (1902)
- Uncle Wiggily's Rolling Hoop (1918)
- Uncle Wiggily and Baby Bunty (1918)
- Uncle Wiggily and Bunty's Skates (1902)
- Uncle Wiggily and Bunty's Ride (1918)
- All works by Howard R. Garis