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A Miser. A Manger. A Miracle.
Winner of the Director's Choice Award - Gift a print copy to someone you love.
In an interpretive retelling of the Easter and Christmas stories, A Miser, A Manger, A Miracle weaves Biblical events into the timeless work of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." Darkness cloaks the hills of Bethlehem, but pales in comparison to the black heart of a greedy, unscrupulous innkeeper, who unknowingly sets into motion a night of miracles the world will never forget.
David Morrell, New York Times best selling author of 'The Spy Who Came for Christmas' says "The First Christmas Carol is a vivid new approach to the traditional nativity story. Fresh and fascinating.”
In an interpretive retelling of the Easter and Christmas stories, A Miser, A Manger, A Miracle weaves Biblical events into the timeless work of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." Darkness cloaks the hills of Bethlehem, but pales in comparison to the black heart of a greedy, unscrupulous innkeeper, who unknowingly sets into motion a night of miracles the world will never forget.
David Morrell, New York Times best selling author of 'The Spy Who Came for Christmas' says "The First Christmas Carol is a vivid new approach to the traditional nativity story. Fresh and fascinating.”
164 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2013
87 people are currently reading
902 people want to read
About the author
Marianne Jordan
20 books15 followersI was born in Tennessee, but grew up in the Commonwealth of Virginia. I graduated from Radford University with degrees in both Speech Telecommunications and Business. After graduation, I immediately began my career passion in broadcasting. I met my husband, radio personality, Bill Jordan while working together in Roanoke, Virginia. I left the business when my daughter was born.
My creative writing began as commercial copy and public relation and marketing ideas for TV and National Public Radio. I wrote a few short stories but never with intentions of being published.
That changed when I began writing skits and plays for church dramas. While directing a youth drama team, I wrote The First Christmas Carol. I was later encouraged to turn it into a book. After years of shelving and rewrites, I finally took the idea seriously. Fourteen years later, the story has taken on a new life.
I already have several books in the works, including a children’s series.
I make my home in North Carolina with my husband and two dogs. When not writing, I enjoy traveling, cooking, gardening, music and sports. My favorite free time activity is spending time with my daughter and grandson.
My creative writing began as commercial copy and public relation and marketing ideas for TV and National Public Radio. I wrote a few short stories but never with intentions of being published.
That changed when I began writing skits and plays for church dramas. While directing a youth drama team, I wrote The First Christmas Carol. I was later encouraged to turn it into a book. After years of shelving and rewrites, I finally took the idea seriously. Fourteen years later, the story has taken on a new life.
I already have several books in the works, including a children’s series.
I make my home in North Carolina with my husband and two dogs. When not writing, I enjoy traveling, cooking, gardening, music and sports. My favorite free time activity is spending time with my daughter and grandson.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
November 27, 2015
I’ve read many Christmas stories through the years and two of my favorites are the real Christmas story in the Gospel of Luke and the timeless classic, “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens. I never in my wildest dreams imagined the two stories being combined, but they have been. It’s an amazing tale called “The First Christmas Carol: A Miser, A Manger, A Miracle.” Author Marianne Jordan not only turned this allegory into a timeless classic all its own, she has written a story that prompts me to buy this book for everyone on my Christmas list. It is truly a treasure.
The new Ebenezer in “The First Christmas Carol” is the owner of the inn who turned away Mary and Joseph from staying in one of his rooms. While Jordan skillfully weaves this Dickens’ storyline into her tale, she then brings in the Holy Family. The true story of Jesus’ birth becomes the setting as Jordan depicts the miserly innkeeper who only cares about the money he’ll earn from the many guests who have arrived in town. Mary and Joseph are far too poor for one of Ebenezer’s high-priced rooms. In fact, it is not he who provides a stable for the couple to stay in; it is the assistant to the innkeeper, the Bob Cratchit in this tale, who risks his job and income to provide shelter for the woman about to give birth.
While much of this tale seems familiar, author Jordan has added new elements to the allegory that are all her own. It lends itself to a perfect story that shows the transforming power of Jesus.
I give this new classic five stars—and at least ten tissues (needed for the tears) for this heartwarming take on two stories that never get old.
The new Ebenezer in “The First Christmas Carol” is the owner of the inn who turned away Mary and Joseph from staying in one of his rooms. While Jordan skillfully weaves this Dickens’ storyline into her tale, she then brings in the Holy Family. The true story of Jesus’ birth becomes the setting as Jordan depicts the miserly innkeeper who only cares about the money he’ll earn from the many guests who have arrived in town. Mary and Joseph are far too poor for one of Ebenezer’s high-priced rooms. In fact, it is not he who provides a stable for the couple to stay in; it is the assistant to the innkeeper, the Bob Cratchit in this tale, who risks his job and income to provide shelter for the woman about to give birth.
While much of this tale seems familiar, author Jordan has added new elements to the allegory that are all her own. It lends itself to a perfect story that shows the transforming power of Jesus.
I give this new classic five stars—and at least ten tissues (needed for the tears) for this heartwarming take on two stories that never get old.
January 27, 2018
Before we begin, The Christmas Carol is a touchy subject in my house. To my husband, it is not Christmas without it and yet, I could easily do without it. This version is the exception to my rule.
This insightful book takes place at Jesus's birth. The innkeeper is the miser, however, I felt that word was almost too nice for him. He almost seemed heartless, worse than Scrooge. But through the miracles of Christ's birth he was changed.
The characters were so well written. I almost did not want to read it because the innkeeper was so hateful, but I knew, from the Dicken's tale that there would be a reversal to his story.
Such a wonderful book and story I would highly recommend it to all of my friends, family and all.
This insightful book takes place at Jesus's birth. The innkeeper is the miser, however, I felt that word was almost too nice for him. He almost seemed heartless, worse than Scrooge. But through the miracles of Christ's birth he was changed.
The characters were so well written. I almost did not want to read it because the innkeeper was so hateful, but I knew, from the Dicken's tale that there would be a reversal to his story.
Such a wonderful book and story I would highly recommend it to all of my friends, family and all.
November 3, 2016
The First Christmas Carol was meant to be a work that could be enjoyed year round especially during Easter as well. It is my sincere hope that you will find this an excellent Easter read and perhaps think of Easter differently as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2018
Beautifully written, touching
The underlying message is so dearly written in this engaging tale. It will bring tears to your eyes as it opens your heart.
The underlying message is so dearly written in this engaging tale. It will bring tears to your eyes as it opens your heart.
October 16, 2014
Marianne Jordan in her new book, “The First Christmas Carol” published by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas gives us A Miser, A Manger, A Miracle.
From the Back Cover: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and . . . Dickens?
In an interpretive retelling of this familiar Christmas story the author asks: What if there was room at the inn? The First Christmas Carol combines a timeless work of classic literature with the first documented Christmas story. As darkness cloaks the hills of Bethlehem three angels visit an unscrupulous innkeeper, revealing his past, present, and the miracles yet to come.
Not the story you’ve read. Still the stories you know.
I really like the tag line Matthew, Mark, Luke, and . . . Dickens. Why? Because “The First Christmas Carol takes everything we know from Mr. Dickens adds it to the Gospels and gives us a very unique story. I have to say this is a lot of fun and quite enjoyable as we are given both stories that we know so well in such a different manner. Even though we have never had the story given to us this way before it is still comfortable, makes us smile and makes us want to keep reading. Keep this book somewhere handy as you will want to read it again and again every year.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the Back Cover: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and . . . Dickens?
In an interpretive retelling of this familiar Christmas story the author asks: What if there was room at the inn? The First Christmas Carol combines a timeless work of classic literature with the first documented Christmas story. As darkness cloaks the hills of Bethlehem three angels visit an unscrupulous innkeeper, revealing his past, present, and the miracles yet to come.
Not the story you’ve read. Still the stories you know.
I really like the tag line Matthew, Mark, Luke, and . . . Dickens. Why? Because “The First Christmas Carol takes everything we know from Mr. Dickens adds it to the Gospels and gives us a very unique story. I have to say this is a lot of fun and quite enjoyable as we are given both stories that we know so well in such a different manner. Even though we have never had the story given to us this way before it is still comfortable, makes us smile and makes us want to keep reading. Keep this book somewhere handy as you will want to read it again and again every year.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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February 10, 2016Mixing Ebeneezer Christmas Carol with the story of Christ's birth.
December 27, 2016
A Perfect Christmas Read
The author has nicely blended the true Christmas story with a favorite Christmas tale. It shows the real reason Jesus came to live with us.
The author has nicely blended the true Christmas story with a favorite Christmas tale. It shows the real reason Jesus came to live with us.
December 12, 2017
An innovative and intriguing blending of Dickens's A Christmas Carol with the life of Christ.
December 7, 2017
What a marvelous adaptation of the
Christmas Carol
by Dickens! I've never heard of anyone taking the Christmas story and adapting it this way. Better yet, this book came about as a result of a play written by the author for her church production. What the author has done is to flesh out the story for the readers. She has done this so well that at times I was walking with Ebenezer in his soul searching journey led by three different angels.
Ebenezer was the Inn keeper in the tiny town of Bethlehem. He was delighted at the opportunity to earn a great deal of money when the Romans decreed that the descendants of David register in their home town to be counted and taxed. Ebenezer loved making money. He didn't care how he accomplished that or who he hurt on the way. He considered himself above the rabble anyway. As people crowded into the small spaces of the Inn, Ebenezer had one room left and he was holding onto it to save it for a rich customer who could afford his lavish rates. One couple he turned away was a man and his pregnant wife.
Then that night the angel Gabriel appeared to him in his home. He would be visited that night by three more angels, in an effort to redeem his corrupted soul. First he visited his past. Then the present. But nothing touched his heart until he started to get to know a man called Jesus. Even the man's teaching didn't touch his heart until he witnessed the scourging and the crucifixion of this innocent one. Finally he was a broken and repentant man. For the first time in his life, he wanted to save this man's agony by offering his life for Jesus' life. Then he was told this was Jesus' choice, to die for him, the wretched, greedy Ebenezer.
Don't let the familiarity of the story scheme distract you. The author has done a marvelous job of allowing us to see life from Ebenezer's eyes. There are many other elements of the Christmas Carol you'll find familiar when you read this book. All of this enhances the experience Ebenezer lived in his one night of revelation. Since we already know the outcome of the story, and even the way it is being told, the joy is in the details. And the author did a wonderful job of telling this story with realistic detail and heart. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I hope you do too.
Ebenezer was the Inn keeper in the tiny town of Bethlehem. He was delighted at the opportunity to earn a great deal of money when the Romans decreed that the descendants of David register in their home town to be counted and taxed. Ebenezer loved making money. He didn't care how he accomplished that or who he hurt on the way. He considered himself above the rabble anyway. As people crowded into the small spaces of the Inn, Ebenezer had one room left and he was holding onto it to save it for a rich customer who could afford his lavish rates. One couple he turned away was a man and his pregnant wife.
Then that night the angel Gabriel appeared to him in his home. He would be visited that night by three more angels, in an effort to redeem his corrupted soul. First he visited his past. Then the present. But nothing touched his heart until he started to get to know a man called Jesus. Even the man's teaching didn't touch his heart until he witnessed the scourging and the crucifixion of this innocent one. Finally he was a broken and repentant man. For the first time in his life, he wanted to save this man's agony by offering his life for Jesus' life. Then he was told this was Jesus' choice, to die for him, the wretched, greedy Ebenezer.
Don't let the familiarity of the story scheme distract you. The author has done a marvelous job of allowing us to see life from Ebenezer's eyes. There are many other elements of the Christmas Carol you'll find familiar when you read this book. All of this enhances the experience Ebenezer lived in his one night of revelation. Since we already know the outcome of the story, and even the way it is being told, the joy is in the details. And the author did a wonderful job of telling this story with realistic detail and heart. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I hope you do too.
June 9, 2019
Countless people are familiar with Ebenezer Scrooge and the Dickens holiday classic, A Christmas Carol. Now retell that story with a man named Ebenezer who's a miserly old innkeeper around two thousand years ago in Bethlehem, where a curiously bright star has been hovering over the little town for some time, and you have A Miser. A Manger. A Miracle. by author Marianne Jordan.
This book showed up on my radar about three years ago, and I, a Christmas Carol fan, have been intrigued by the idea of it ever since.
I'll admit I had trouble getting into it the first time I tried it last year. Even this time around, I still found a good chunk of the story to be slow, along with a caricatured Ebenezer (not necessarily a bad thing, as he is supposed to be a "Scrooge"), choppy emotional development and awkward perspective shifts in places, and a style that doesn't have the original classic's wit.
But I kept reading this time, still intrigued by the general basis of a Scrooge's journey, so to speak. And I think the tale gains its power as it moves from its nativity theme into its overall theme of the Gospel, showing how it's more than a Christmas story. Showing the price that love pays to redeem wayward souls.
Hence, I'd say this retelling is just as fitting for Holy Week as it is for Christmastime.
This book showed up on my radar about three years ago, and I, a Christmas Carol fan, have been intrigued by the idea of it ever since.
I'll admit I had trouble getting into it the first time I tried it last year. Even this time around, I still found a good chunk of the story to be slow, along with a caricatured Ebenezer (not necessarily a bad thing, as he is supposed to be a "Scrooge"), choppy emotional development and awkward perspective shifts in places, and a style that doesn't have the original classic's wit.
But I kept reading this time, still intrigued by the general basis of a Scrooge's journey, so to speak. And I think the tale gains its power as it moves from its nativity theme into its overall theme of the Gospel, showing how it's more than a Christmas story. Showing the price that love pays to redeem wayward souls.
Hence, I'd say this retelling is just as fitting for Holy Week as it is for Christmastime.
December 23, 2020
I thought the story line was an interesting concept to mix elements from "The Christmas Carol" and the story of Jesus. Though the story did not grab hold of me, I thought it was entertaining enough. Unfortunately I got half way into the book and had to put it back down. I realize this is fiction, but one point was made, that I do not agree with in the Biblical sense. This one little element, did it for me. Yes, I know everyone believes differently, but this was a reminder to me as to why I do not usually read any type of fiction based on the Bible. Things are added for entertainment purposes, but some take what they read as truth. This is obviously what the author believes, and that is ok. Unfortunately I felt it best to just not continue. I can't in good conscience give a negative rating, because it was a decent story, however I can't give a rave review either. These comments are solely my own opinion and no reflection on the author whatsoever is intended.
September 30, 2019
An excellent book! I used it for our Women' Book Club. It brought to life, not only the Christmas Story, but the people, culture and the events surrounding it. It explained so well the meaning of Jesus' Death and Resurrection that it caused us all to renew our faith in Him. Well done! I pray the author will write more books like this one for us.
An excellent book. I used it for our Women's Book Club. It brought to life, not only the Christmas Story, but the people, culture and the events surrounding it. It explained so well the meaning of Jesus Death and Resurrection that it caused us all to renew our faith in Him. Well done! Looking forward to more books by the author.
An excellent book. I used it for our Women's Book Club. It brought to life, not only the Christmas Story, but the people, culture and the events surrounding it. It explained so well the meaning of Jesus Death and Resurrection that it caused us all to renew our faith in Him. Well done! Looking forward to more books by the author.
August 28, 2017
An amazing story written from two very different stories: the life of Christ from the Bible in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John; and the classic 'Christmas Carol' by Charles Dickens.
The author wove the two stories together creating a wonderful, entertaining Christmas story. The entire book was incredible with Ebenezer, the angels, the Inn with Mary and Joseph, the life of Christ including the resurrection. This is an inspirational, fun to read story for everyone.
The author wove the two stories together creating a wonderful, entertaining Christmas story. The entire book was incredible with Ebenezer, the angels, the Inn with Mary and Joseph, the life of Christ including the resurrection. This is an inspirational, fun to read story for everyone.
December 5, 2019
God blessed us, everyone!
The Christmas Carol is one of my favorites and this version is wonderful. Set in biblical times we are given a look at what Christ came to accomplish, setting us free from ourselves. I Do not know if the innkeeper was actually a man like Ebenezer and I Do not think The angel Garbriel is like the version in the book, but that aside it was a good read with a good message of the Prince of Peace being born. Would recommend.
The Christmas Carol is one of my favorites and this version is wonderful. Set in biblical times we are given a look at what Christ came to accomplish, setting us free from ourselves. I Do not know if the innkeeper was actually a man like Ebenezer and I Do not think The angel Garbriel is like the version in the book, but that aside it was a good read with a good message of the Prince of Peace being born. Would recommend.
December 18, 2016
Amazing
A good read for anyone who can read. Just be prepared to cry a bit and have to stop reading until you can see again. Charles Dickens was this the inspiration for your tale? God Bless everyone!
A good read for anyone who can read. Just be prepared to cry a bit and have to stop reading until you can see again. Charles Dickens was this the inspiration for your tale? God Bless everyone!
December 11, 2017
Exceptional!
This book truly brought the real meaning of Christmas alive to me in a new way! It will seem familiar to you for more than one reason. Read it now -- don't wait until next Christmas!
This book truly brought the real meaning of Christmas alive to me in a new way! It will seem familiar to you for more than one reason. Read it now -- don't wait until next Christmas!
December 20, 2017
What a wonderful combination of stories. It held so true to both of them that there were times you felt A Christmas Carol had always been written during the
birth of Jesus. Perfectly blended thank you for a lovely story!
birth of Jesus. Perfectly blended thank you for a lovely story!
December 26, 2017
A Miser, a Manger, a Miracle
The system only allows for a maximum of five stars but I would like to give it more. This is truly a well written, marvelous, wonderful, and inspirational story. My sincere thanks to Mrs. Jordan for sharing it.
The system only allows for a maximum of five stars but I would like to give it more. This is truly a well written, marvelous, wonderful, and inspirational story. My sincere thanks to Mrs. Jordan for sharing it.
January 15, 2018
Wonderful!
What a way to combine A Christmas Carol and The Greatest Story Ever Told. I cried when Ebenezer realized what Jesus did for him. Won't give anything else away! Just suffice it to say it is a good book to read any time, but especially at Christmas.
What a way to combine A Christmas Carol and The Greatest Story Ever Told. I cried when Ebenezer realized what Jesus did for him. Won't give anything else away! Just suffice it to say it is a good book to read any time, but especially at Christmas.
September 7, 2018
A Christmas Carol and Birth of a Savior all rolled into one
The story was a lovely new iteration of the Scrooge classic and the birth of Jesus Christ combined. It was a sweet read during which many tears were shed. Heartwarming!
The story was a lovely new iteration of the Scrooge classic and the birth of Jesus Christ combined. It was a sweet read during which many tears were shed. Heartwarming!
October 11, 2018
A delightful blend
This book is a delightful blend of a much loved classic and the gospel of Jesus the Christ. The writer weaves the two together in a pleasurable new tale fit for both Easter and Christmas.
This book is a delightful blend of a much loved classic and the gospel of Jesus the Christ. The writer weaves the two together in a pleasurable new tale fit for both Easter and Christmas.
December 19, 2018
Excellent Faith-filled Read
I’m one who gets concerned about fictional stories woven around the life of my Lord, but there was so much in this book to make me understand the words of Jesus, hopefully, in a fuller and deeper way. This book spoke to my heart.
I’m one who gets concerned about fictional stories woven around the life of my Lord, but there was so much in this book to make me understand the words of Jesus, hopefully, in a fuller and deeper way. This book spoke to my heart.
December 29, 2018
An interesting premise: the Christmas Story and A Christmas Carol interwoven. But the story, originally written for the author's church youth group was oh so predictable. Even the characters had similar names. This was a free book, which I'm glad I read; not sure I would pay for it though...
December 15, 2019
Fantastic Christmas revolution!
This book I highly recommend. It has aspects of A Christmas Carol and The Bible blended together to show the Christmas message of redemption and hope. I am sure I will re-read this special Christmas book again in the future.
This book I highly recommend. It has aspects of A Christmas Carol and The Bible blended together to show the Christmas message of redemption and hope. I am sure I will re-read this special Christmas book again in the future.
December 16, 2019
Powerful story!
I love how the author wove together "A Christmas Carol" by Dickens & the birth of Jesus!! An emotional story that illustrates how your life is changed when you encounter Jesus! I want to reread this every Christmas.
I love how the author wove together "A Christmas Carol" by Dickens & the birth of Jesus!! An emotional story that illustrates how your life is changed when you encounter Jesus! I want to reread this every Christmas.
August 7, 2017
I received this book from a goodreads giveaway.
This is a quick read. A very well-written and uplifting story. I liked it a lot.
This is a quick read. A very well-written and uplifting story. I liked it a lot.
November 12, 2017
Loved it!
What a great blend of two stories! I'll probably have them together in my head from here on out. So good!
What a great blend of two stories! I'll probably have them together in my head from here on out. So good!
December 3, 2017
Excellent, I enjoyed reading it, a little of Charles Dickens and the Bible, made me realize how bad things can be and then get better. Thanks for the good read.
December 18, 2017
This is what Christmas is all about. What a great Read.
December 12, 2017
An adaptation of "The Christmas Carol" which is about the birth of the Savior. Kind of strange but heartwarming.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews