52 Little Lessons from A Christmas Carol: Inspirational Reflections for the Advent Season

by Bob Welch

How do we learn life lessons from a grumpy penny-pincher so unpleasant that dogs run from him on sight? Does Scripture suggest we all have a touch of Scrooge in us? Can we all benefit from reexamining who we've become in our own life stories? Bestselling author Bob Welch invites us to discover these questions and more in 52 Little Lessons from A Christmas Carol.

Join Welch as he takes you deeper into the nuances of this timeless story by Charles Dickens. From the stinginess of Scrooge to the innocence of Tiny Tim, the biblically based devotions in 52 Little Lessons from A Christmas Carol will inspire you to live for what really matters--not only at Christmas, but all year long.

52 Little Lessons from A Christmas Carol will help you get to know this holiday classic--and yourself--better. This devotional, much like the original novel, is tinted with a fair share of how-not-to-live lessons as well as how-to-live lessons, helping us see that we can learn from both, just like we do in scripture.

As you enjoy A Christmas Carol in this brand new light, you'll learn

Death is a comma, not a periodIt's never too late to changeGenerosity changes your perspectiveLife is best lived imaginativelyWith help from others, we can all become the best versions of ourselves In 52 Little Lessons from A Christmas Carol, discover why A Christmas Carol is more than just a holiday tradition--it's an exploration of charity, grief, and making the most of the lives that we're given.

Genres: Christmas, Christian, Nonfiction, Inspirational, Religion, Devotional, Literature

196 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 15, 2015

Reviews

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this little book. It was nice to read a lesson or two a day. This was an encouraging read.

[Donna · Rating 2 out of 5]

Most of the lessons are obvious... there are a few I never thought of. I don't usually look for symbolism, etc...I prefer to read for enjoyment. But since this is a favorite story I had to check it out. There was a bit too much emphasis on the religious aspects for me.

[Barbara Lovejoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book more each time I read it! December 2, 2024: I cannot say enough wonderful things about this book that I treasure more and more each time I read it!!! December 24, 2023: I love this book more each time I read it! Starting to buy copies to give away.

December 5, 2023: I cannot even begin to say how much I love this book. If I could afford it, I would give a copy to everyone I know. :)


December 19, 2022: LOVE! LOVE! LOVE! this book. I am going to read a chapter each Sunday of 2023 and strive to live it! June 8, 2022: What a treasure!!! I can't wait to read it again...and again---and apply it to my life...AND give it as a gift to others.

[Ray Palen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a terrific book that analyzes, nearly sentence by sentence, every mood and thought and emotion inside Dickens' A CHRISTMAS CAROL.

Presented in 52 small chapter, each one headlined by a different lesson. Each lesson begins with a quote from the text and then goes on to break it down in-depth including comparison to the many A CHRISTMAS CAROL film adaptations

A must-read for serious fans of Scrooge and the entire ACC gang!

[Diane Busch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Remarkable how much good insight I received from reading this book. Many of the lessons in Dickens' writing slipped past me without Welch's detailed explanations. I enjoyed it as a devotional in December leading up to Christmas. I watched 2 different movie versions of "The Christmas Carol" to supplement and reinforce. Thank you, Bob Welch. Well done.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

a special way to rethink the Dickens' Christmas Carol published in the mid 19th century. It is just as important today as it was then. The spirit of kindness and redemption spurs our connection with others as well as our own spirituality and connection with our Lord and saviour. Perfect to read anytime. Wonderful way to end the Christmas season.

[Larry White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Plant a Tree

Each year certain routines or disciplines help me ground myself during the Advent and Christmas season. Year-round and during the season I do daily Bible study and devotionals, but at Christmas I supplement them with special devotionals and other materials. Among these are watching at least one of the many fine film versions of Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”, often reading the book also. This year I didn’t read Dickens itself, but I daily read a book of lessons from the story, journalist Bob Welch’s “52 Little Lessons from A Christmas Carol”. I did two short lessons a day, and found the book and the experience rewarding. I also read a related book by Welch on Frank Capra’s masterpiece film, “It’s a Wonderful Life” and Jimmy Hawkins’ book “The Heart of It’s a Wonderful Life.”

One of the lessons that stands out and is relevant every day is the power of our present, a power that often holds us captive and limits the potential for our future.

Scrooge, obsessed with business and bitterness, learned to tame his present and change his priorities after visits by Spirits who revealed his own past, opened his eyes to the present experienced by others, and forebodingly showed him where this must lead. This caused Scrooge to regret and repent and to make a new present. Because of his new perspective he no longer was captive to his old present.

George Bailey got a different perspective from his angelic intervenor, Clarence, as he lamented the depth to which his life had sunk and the desperation of his present, and wished he had never been. Clarence granted him that wish and showed him a present that was far, far worse because George never existed. Things George dismissed as insignificant had enormous significance in reality. George’s eyes were opened, and he celebrated his present even before he knew that his present problems were about to be resolved. Because of his new perspective he no longer was captive to his old present.

Welch wrapped up the lessons from Dickens’ classic with an old adage: there are two ideal times to plant a tree, fifty years ago and today. That’s the unique blessing of Christianity too. Our past and our present need not hold us captive and restrict our future. Regret that leads to repentance and acceptance of Christ as our Savior always is available! However, you are feeling about your past or present, plant a new tree today. And read “52 Lessons” for that and many more helpful insights.

[J Robb]

p. 10 - Man obsesses over the trivial but ignores the profound: people. God. The suffering and joy of others.
p. 11 - The profound are the 2 greatest commandments - to love the Lord and your neighbor.
p. 11 - Why does man obsess over the small things? Provers 1:7: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge but fools despise wisdom and instruction."
p. 11 - We all engage in worship of either self or others. (Even when we serve others, do we serve them with the right motive?)
p. 14 - We conform to the world or to one who made the world.
p. 14 - Bob Dylan - It may be the devil, it may be the Lord but we're going to serve someone.
p. 17 - Stay positive. Overcome evil with God. (Romans 12:21)
p. 29 - "Mankind is my business" "The common welfare is my business."
p. 30 - Better introductory question, "so what do you do...for the community?"
p. 33 - What really matters "relationships."
p. 34 - Don't make your own chains.
p. 37 - Life change in 4 steps: awareness, vision, strategy, courage. Humility is at the center of it. Humility permits to drop the shield of arrogance or laziness.
p. 43 - If you want to be holy, be kind.
p. 45 - 1Thes. 5:11, "Encourage one another and build each other up."
p. 51 - "Almost" doesn't cut it. "Not to decide is to decide."
p. 52 - Too many Christians play it safe.
p. 55 - Live in a more aware/awaken state. Risk more, pay more attention.
p. 71 - Giver or taker? Proud or humble? A point of light or a point of darkness?
p. 72 - Attitude is everything. There is little connection between wealth and happiness.
p. 74 - Life is 10% what happens to and and 90% of how we respond to it. The single most important decision I make daily is my choice of attitude.
p. 76 - Be "doers of the world" James 1:22 Love is a verb.
p. 80 - "The life of our Lord" - Dicken's book to her children.
p. 84 - Scrooges offenses carry their own punishment.
p. 95 - What overcomes fear: moving
p. 96 - What most all ant the one thing man wants: control
p. 98 - When we give up control, we can follow someone else.

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

First sentence: Of all Charles Dickens's books, A Christmas Carol is his most popular, and--though highbrow critics might disagree--some believe his best.

Are there really fifty-two lessons to be learned by a close, careful reading of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol? Maybe. Part of me wishes that this one was just titled "Little Lessons From A Christmas Carol" because the 52 part of the element makes it gimmicky.

Who is this one written for? Christians primarily. Though A Christmas Carol may be read by believers and unbelievers alike, this book focuses on the spiritual and moral lessons to be gained by reading the book. The publisher is a Christian publisher. I mention this because some reviews are like WHY is the book so spiritual. I could dismiss those reviews without giving them any thought or credit, but realistically every single reader comes to a book with expectations.

The chapters are short and could easily be read as a devotional book. One could use this for devotional readings in November and December.

The lessons are straightforward and somewhat obvious. The advice he gleams from Dickens' novel is not new and extraordinary. "Be the change you want to see." "Learning begins with listening." "Denial prevents change." "You make the chains that shackle you."

Favorite quote: "To not pay attention is to miss the wonder of being alive. To miss the people around us, the needs around us, and the beauty around us. And we miss the umbrella above it all: the God who loves us unconditionally." (55)

Also: "To notice is to see. To see is to feel. To feel is to build connections with those around us. And to build connections with those around uses to fulfill God's co-propiety for us: 'Love your neighbor as yourself' (Matthew 22:39). (138)

[Laura Lane · Rating 3 out of 5]

52 Little Lessons from A Christmas Carol by Bob Welch

Thank you BookLook for this complimentary review copy.

Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol has been read, watched, listened to, and enjoyed by generation after generation. Written in 1843 during a time when social reforms, Christmas, and Christian charity were being reconsidered in England, it is an entertaining tale that not only captures the imagination but does a bit of concealed preaching as well. It is so popular, it has never gone out of print.



Bob Welch has mined bits of gold from the Carol in the form of 52 Little Lessons from A Christmas Carol. Some of the lessons are obvious like "It's not about you" and "Don't let people steal your joy". Some require digging a little deeper like "Bitterness will poison you" and "You can't wish away the uncomfortable."

52 Lessons is a great little book for snatch reading because the chapters were short. It is also small and sturdy enough to fit inside a handbag.
It was an interesting little book. Having read the book and seen movies, I could see the scenes in my mind as I read.
I thought that it was well thought out and well organized to bring enlightenment to the reader.
It's a relaxing read that brings back memories of reading and watching the move.
It reveals the depth of A Christmas Carol.
It will be most helpful and enjoyable for those who have read Dickens' Carol or watched one of the numerous movies.
It's an engaging little book to get you in the Spirit of Christmas Present.

God bless!

Laura

[David Burton · Rating 4 out of 5]

★★★★☆ (4 stars)

52 Little Lessons from A Christmas Carol by Bob Welch is a warm, thoughtful, and gently inspiring book that invites readers to slow down and reflect on the enduring wisdom found in Dickens’s classic tale. By breaking the story’s themes into short, manageable lessons, Welch makes the book easy to dip into week by week, encouraging steady reflection rather than hurried consumption.

The strength of this book lies in its clarity and accessibility. Each lesson is concise and focused, offering practical insights that feel relevant to everyday life. Welch writes with sincerity and respect for the original story, drawing out ideas about generosity, self-awareness, kindness, and personal growth in a way that feels encouraging rather than preachy. It’s particularly well suited for readers looking for gentle motivation or a meaningful companion throughout the year.

While some lessons may feel familiar to those already well-versed in A Christmas Carol, the consistent tone and thoughtful presentation make this a rewarding read overall. I found 52 Little Lessons from A Christmas Carol to be a comforting and reflective book that reminds us why this timeless story continues to resonate—and why its messages still matter today.

I choose to read it one chapter per day and that allows a reader to absorb the lessons.

[Carol Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so glad I discovered this series of books by Bob Welch. I just finished this one and have started his 52 Little Lessons from It’s a Wonderful Life. Soon, I’ll read the Les Misérables book, too.

I loved reading the 52 Little Lessons from A Christmas Carol. I’ll ponder many of the lessons for a while, and by God’s grace and some personal humility & willingness to change, hope to allow these lessons to make me more like my Savior: full of joy, grace, kindness & generosity. I don’t want to be like how Bob Welch describes Scrooge: “He lives his life in a rut well rusted by time, bitterness, and regret, like a shipwreck encrusted with barnacles that have clung to it so stubbornly long that they have become part of the vessel itself.”

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started this book at the end of November, hoping to read a couple chapters a day and finish by Christmas Eve, but life got in the way, and now it’s the new year and I’ve just finished. But, as is often the case, I needed the end of this book today to help me process what’s going on in my head today, and if I’d finished on time, I might have missed that help. This book was well-researched and reads easily. It dove into my favorite Dickens book to find lessons, some I had already found and some I hadn’t thought of. This is a book I’ll pull out next November and read again, much like Dickens’ beautiful story.

[Gregory Andis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second "little lessons" book from Bob Welch that I have read and it is probably no accident that I am drawn to the novels (or in this case, novella) he chooses to write about. All of these books or screenplays are stories of redemption and transformation and while A CHRISTMAS CAROL is NOT necessarily a "Christian" novel, the redeeming Love and Presence of God is on every page. In our home, we taught our children always "to make the wise choice". Every time I return the story of Scrooge, Marley, the Three Spirits, Bob Cratchit, and Tiny Tim, whether in print, on stage, or on screen, I get a little chill when the old miser makes the wise choice. God Bless Us, Everyone!

[Jo-Ann Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Magoo's A Christmas Carol has always been my favorite but I have always loved the story in all its versions.

I found this book very interesting and inspiring. Even after a lifetime of reading and watching this story, there were some details I had overlooked that this book pointed out to me.

This book is well written and entertaining as well as instructive about the craft of writing. It celebrates the mastery of Dickens in composing this story that has withstood the test of time.

I think this is the perfect Christmas Eve gift.

[Jason Parke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bob Welch, author and inspirational speaker, creates 52 lessons from the classic book "A Christmas Carol," with each lesson backed with a quote from the book. Scripture is formulated around these lessons, with a couple of questions after each lesson for discussion and contemplation.

These lessons include forgiveness, a willingness to change, and seeking joy in the everyday. An encouraging and uplifting read!

[Alan Lampe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book by Bob Welch. He breaks down many scenes from "A Christmas Carol" and provides inspiration on how to live out that message in your daily life. It really opens up the original story.

I read this as a secondary book, that's why the read time is longer than usual for a book this size. Still, you can read one chapter a week, or the whole thing in one setting. Just read it.

[Ramon · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book. Every year I watch the Christmas Carol version Scrooge with Albert Finny. I love the movie and I was pleasantly surprised of the lesson put forth by Bob Welch in the 52 lessons book. I loved the the ideas and he used examples from many versions of the Christmas Carol. The book was an easy read.

[Steve Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

In an engaging style, the author draws 52 inspiring lessons from Dickens' classic A Christmas Carol. Each lesson connects a scene or line from the book or a movie version of the book to a moral or spiritual principle. This book enhanced my appreciation for Dickens and his endearing Christmas story.

[Linda Edmonds Cerullo · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely book pointing out the highlights of "A Christmas Carol" and giving Bible-based advice relating to them. A short book and so well-worth reading not only at Christmas but any time of year. Beautifully written.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second of Mr. Welch's "lessons" books that I have read. It is set up for devotional use. I chose to read it straight through. I have read the novel and I have watched at least one version of the movie. The lessons come from both types of format and they are thought provoking.

[Marie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Didn't realize this was going to be a Christian devotional, so I really didn't like it. I was expecting a deep dive into the book but it was silly and surface level, repetitive and trying too hard to be witty.

[Rosa Cline · Rating 4 out of 5]

really neat perspective

This is a nice perspective into the book. Giving your mind thought into what the author may have meant as he wrote the book. You won’t regret the time spent reading it.

[Shari · Rating 3 out of 5]

Liked #50 the best. Some were better than others.

[Matthew Huff · Rating 3 out of 5]

I chose this one for Audible and was disappointed in the narrator. Also, far too much emphasis was placed on the author's personal anecdotes rather than on the novella or Dickens himself.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this - about one of my favorite holiday classic stories. Perfect reading to start the Christmas season.

[Elaine Skidmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read if you like Dickens.

[AngelaGay Kinkead · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite nice. Good resource if you're referencing Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" in preaching or teaching. Or if you love the story/movies and want to reflect on snippets and tidbits.

[Cara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great devotion for Christmas or anytime. Great life lessons.

[Jeni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great devotional, and it doesn't have to be just at Christmas.