Ghosts (referred to as various titles, such as ghosts, apparitions, shades and phantoms are key side characters in this story. In the original book form, these do not come across as ‘scary’ creatures. The final ghost to visit is potentially the closest, but even it doesn’t ever cross the line. But with that being said, we still want to share a bit of detail around the most potentially frightening parts to younger, more sensitive readers. The first comes when Scrooge is in his house all alone and the spirits come (a thought that may frighten some). There is a scene where Marley goes to leave and Scrooge becomes aware of many other spirits who lived a sinful life wandering aimlessly, full of regret, themselves. The spirits visit’s are called ‘hauntings’. There is another odd moment when the narrator says, “as close as I am to you, and I am standing at your elbow” implying that the narrator is actually a ‘spirit’ themselves. While none of this is as light as its common cartoon form, it is also intentionally meant to be kept on the lighter, non-frightening side of things.
This book has one moment that is important to know about. Once when Scrooge gets to see his nephew’s house we see a young man who has an eye for a sister. The sister is referred to several times as ‘plump’. The young man cheats at a game to pursue her. He keeps ‘catching’ her and the scene ends with them “very confidential with each other behind the curtains”. This is the only comment at all like this in the book.
Language includes ‘idiot’ and ‘ass’ (referring to a donkey). Gin and brandy are mentioned.
Finally, different editions have different introductions from different selected authors. Please take a minute and read this as our review copy had a few odd comments in it.