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A Christian's Carol: A Modern Retelling of Dickens' Classic Tale
Ebenezer Krow is a relentless man who charges through life, holding himself and everyone else to the letter of the law. Krow’s nephew, his employees, his business associates—even mankind in general—all feel the castigating burn of Krow’s glare. One night, on Christmas Eve, Krow is visited by his long-dead business partner, Marley Chastain. The ghost warns Krow that three spirits, one of them a devil, will assail him throughout the night. But will the harrowing experience be enough to tear the scab from his sin-scarred soul? Or will the lessons of Christmas and Krow himself be lost forever? In this faithful but modern retelling of Dickens’ classic tale, Batson offers readers a thought-provoking “ghost of an idea” to haunt our homes and churches pleasantly for many years to come.
148 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 5, 2018
9 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
Wayne Thomas Batson
43 books929 followersWayne Thomas Batson was born in Seabrook, MD in 1968. He had an adventurous childhood and adolescence that included: building forts in the woods, crabbing and crayfishing in bays, ponds, and bayous, playing lead guitar in a heavy metal band, and teaching tennis lessons at the local recreation center. He attended Gabriel DuVal Senior High School where he wrote for the school’s newspaper and literary magazine. He was voted “Most Talented” in his senior year, and wrote this for his Yearbook Senior Goal: “To become a published author.” Little did he know that God had even greater plans.
Wayne Thomas Batson has spent the last thirty years teaching Reading and English to Maryland middle school students. Wayne Thomas Batson lives in Eldersburg with his extraordinary wife of 26 years. His four adult children intermittently live at home whenever their unexpected adventures lead them.
Batson’s writing career began in 2005 with the publication of fantasy epic, The Door Within. Since then, The Door Within, The Final Storm, Isle of Swords, and Isle of Fire have all appeared on the CBA Young Adult Bestseller List, including #2 for The Final Storm Fall 2007. To date, Batson has penned or coauthored seventeen novels and has sold well over half a million copies.
Wayne Thomas Batson gives thanks to God for the abundant life he’s been given. He continues to write for the people he cares so deeply about because he believes that, on a deep level, we all long for another world and yearn to do something important.
Wayne Thomas Batson has spent the last thirty years teaching Reading and English to Maryland middle school students. Wayne Thomas Batson lives in Eldersburg with his extraordinary wife of 26 years. His four adult children intermittently live at home whenever their unexpected adventures lead them.
Batson’s writing career began in 2005 with the publication of fantasy epic, The Door Within. Since then, The Door Within, The Final Storm, Isle of Swords, and Isle of Fire have all appeared on the CBA Young Adult Bestseller List, including #2 for The Final Storm Fall 2007. To date, Batson has penned or coauthored seventeen novels and has sold well over half a million copies.
Wayne Thomas Batson gives thanks to God for the abundant life he’s been given. He continues to write for the people he cares so deeply about because he believes that, on a deep level, we all long for another world and yearn to do something important.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
March 19, 2020
A friend recently shared a Facebook post from the author that led to me receiving this yesterday as a Kindle freebie.
At this time, it was just what I needed.
For far too long, I've looked down on others because of what they do that I don't do, especially when it comes to Biblical commandments. Growing up in a Christian home, I knew some of what the Word teaches well before putting on Christ in baptism in 2003. Still, my attitude was not right; I was focusing more on what everyone else was doing and not paying attention to my own sins...including not just what I did, but what I didn't do.
So, from now on, I'm going to focus more on love, mercy, and compassion...which is what being a Christian is all about.
At this time, it was just what I needed.
For far too long, I've looked down on others because of what they do that I don't do, especially when it comes to Biblical commandments. Growing up in a Christian home, I knew some of what the Word teaches well before putting on Christ in baptism in 2003. Still, my attitude was not right; I was focusing more on what everyone else was doing and not paying attention to my own sins...including not just what I did, but what I didn't do.
So, from now on, I'm going to focus more on love, mercy, and compassion...which is what being a Christian is all about.
December 21, 2019
A Christian’s Carol, quite obviously, a retelling of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. And while this modern-day rendition does follow the original’s main beats, at times the story turns on its heel and presents a new gem with a flourish.
I listened to the audiobook, and let me tell you, that was the perfect way to experience this story. The British narrator spoke like a seasoned storyteller, almost as if a rather nicer version of Krow were regaling the listener with a Christmas tale by the warmth of a fireplace.
But don’t let that mental image fool you. Along with the heartwarming moments, there were some deliciously chilling scenes, as especially befitting the ghosts of Christmas past and future. I’m pretty sure I gasped out loud at least once.
What makes this retelling worth reading, however, is the way Batson gently and boldly translates the story from its original nineteenth-century setting to today’s world.
The vices gripping Krow hit a little closer to home for the modern Christian. I found myself at turns suspicious (like Krow), then cautious, then convicted. At first I wasn’t sure how one hot-button issue in particular would be handled. But I needn’t have worried. By the end, it was handled with grace without budging on the truth—and it motivated me to pay more attention to my own thoughts and actions.
The church scene near the end, in particular, was so satisfying. That is what the church is meant to be. I won’t spoil it for you, but it provided such a good contrast to an earlier scene.
As Krow rediscovers both the pain and joy of Christmas past, confronts the disconcerting reality of Christmas present, and faces the grim possibilities of Christmas future… so, too, does the reader.
Five ghostly stars from me!
I was provided a free audiobook copy in exchange for a review. All opinions are entirely my own.
(Review originally posted here: https://traceydyck.com/book-review-a-...)
I listened to the audiobook, and let me tell you, that was the perfect way to experience this story. The British narrator spoke like a seasoned storyteller, almost as if a rather nicer version of Krow were regaling the listener with a Christmas tale by the warmth of a fireplace.
But don’t let that mental image fool you. Along with the heartwarming moments, there were some deliciously chilling scenes, as especially befitting the ghosts of Christmas past and future. I’m pretty sure I gasped out loud at least once.
What makes this retelling worth reading, however, is the way Batson gently and boldly translates the story from its original nineteenth-century setting to today’s world.
The vices gripping Krow hit a little closer to home for the modern Christian. I found myself at turns suspicious (like Krow), then cautious, then convicted. At first I wasn’t sure how one hot-button issue in particular would be handled. But I needn’t have worried. By the end, it was handled with grace without budging on the truth—and it motivated me to pay more attention to my own thoughts and actions.
The church scene near the end, in particular, was so satisfying. That is what the church is meant to be. I won’t spoil it for you, but it provided such a good contrast to an earlier scene.
As Krow rediscovers both the pain and joy of Christmas past, confronts the disconcerting reality of Christmas present, and faces the grim possibilities of Christmas future… so, too, does the reader.
Five ghostly stars from me!
I was provided a free audiobook copy in exchange for a review. All opinions are entirely my own.
(Review originally posted here: https://traceydyck.com/book-review-a-...)
November 17, 2019
Listening to this was a delight. I've never read the original A Christmas Carol, but I have seen numerous adaptations. The voice actor chosen for this fit the story perfectly, and I was hooked into the narrative the moment I heard him imitate Marley Chastain's voice.
The story beats of this novel follow closely to those of the original, though with a modern twist and a few obvious differences. Those differences make this story far more of a challenge for modern readers. One plot point in particular gave me pause, though at the end I'll say that I agreed with the outcome, at least so far as it played out in this story.
If you love A Christmas Carol, and are looking for a version of it with a few twists, I do recommend this. I especially recommend listening to it. The author's prose is spot on and the narrator really brings it to life, both combining to give the haunted Christimasy tone of the story.
I have provided an honest review after having received an audiobook copy from the author.
The story beats of this novel follow closely to those of the original, though with a modern twist and a few obvious differences. Those differences make this story far more of a challenge for modern readers. One plot point in particular gave me pause, though at the end I'll say that I agreed with the outcome, at least so far as it played out in this story.
If you love A Christmas Carol, and are looking for a version of it with a few twists, I do recommend this. I especially recommend listening to it. The author's prose is spot on and the narrator really brings it to life, both combining to give the haunted Christimasy tone of the story.
I have provided an honest review after having received an audiobook copy from the author.
Read
June 5, 2019This was great.... I was moved and challenged and admired the cleverness of the author in making the classic tale seem fresh and (dare I say it?) updated. Not that A Christmas Carol needs updating (I doubt he thinks that either), but I see this novella as a way to see it sideways, like C. S. Lewis said about his Narnia stories and the Classic Text that inspired them. In reading this I was able to enjoy again much of what I like about the Dickens story, but also able to see what the truth in it would mean for our day today. Batson's choice of including the biggest and most controversial cultural/religious issue of our day was disconcerting at first, because it was not on the original author's radar and would have been out of place in his work, but it definitely succeeded in catching my attention as a reader, both in wondering what other provocations might me made along the way, and also to see how it would be treated in further passages. I don't want to give spoilers, but I suggest that you keep reading even if you feel uncomfortable... you will indeed be provoked further--to thought and (hopefully) loving action. Speaking of spoilers I don't want to make, the additional subplot of the tavern and church are really good...and the church one is very much in the spirit of Dickens, because Dickens actually mentioned Scrooge going to church after his conversion--one of the most under-portrayed parts of the famous story. The Boz would have been very pleased that this author made it a significant part of the story (and also criticized many typical church practices along the way). I have a couple minor gripes with the writing, like why the author kept most of the famous lines more or less intact, but changed some for no apparent reason (e.g. he took out "decrease the surplus population" and "I wish to be left alone," two of my favorites). But it's overall very good and a worthwhile read.
December 17, 2018
Great Story!
What an awesome story! A creative re-telling of A Christmas Carol, this book is challenging, encouraging, and moving. Probably one of the best books I’ve read on what learning to live out grace really means.
What an awesome story! A creative re-telling of A Christmas Carol, this book is challenging, encouraging, and moving. Probably one of the best books I’ve read on what learning to live out grace really means.
November 11, 2021
Nearly every Christmas I read a Christmas Carol, so last year it was fun to take a break from the original and read this book with an interesting new perspective on the story. This was well-done and borrowed heavily from the source material yet managed to not just be a repeat. I'll probably reread it some year in the future.
December 13, 2021
*Review for Audiobook Edition*
The classic A Christmas Carol is a wonderful message about Goodwill and being a better person, but it does lack one thing, Christ.
In A Christian's Carol, WTB corrects this oversight. He brings the story forward to our modern day and adds to the miserly Ebenezer Crow a heavy dose of legalism. Appropriate, since Crow is a lawyer.
I heartily enjoyed this retelling. It has a huge twist at the end the distinguishes it from its predecessor and it has a more spiritual message than just, "be nice and give to charity."
I feel like anything else I might say would ruin the experience, so I'll just add, if you are a fan of the original Dickens classic, then I'm sure you will find this update not only as good as the original but better.
This audiobook edition narrated by Dave Cruse is amazing, by the way. Cruse reads with an English accent that adds the perfect amount of nostalgia to this Dickens follow up. He also uses unique voices for each character, making this sound just like a multi-cast production.
If you are looking to change up your Christmas this year, I recommend listening to, or reading, A Christian's Carol. It's the perfect blend of Christmases past, present, and many more to come.
*I received a free code for a copy of this book. The above review is my own honest evaluation of the provided work.*
The classic A Christmas Carol is a wonderful message about Goodwill and being a better person, but it does lack one thing, Christ.
In A Christian's Carol, WTB corrects this oversight. He brings the story forward to our modern day and adds to the miserly Ebenezer Crow a heavy dose of legalism. Appropriate, since Crow is a lawyer.
I heartily enjoyed this retelling. It has a huge twist at the end the distinguishes it from its predecessor and it has a more spiritual message than just, "be nice and give to charity."
I feel like anything else I might say would ruin the experience, so I'll just add, if you are a fan of the original Dickens classic, then I'm sure you will find this update not only as good as the original but better.
This audiobook edition narrated by Dave Cruse is amazing, by the way. Cruse reads with an English accent that adds the perfect amount of nostalgia to this Dickens follow up. He also uses unique voices for each character, making this sound just like a multi-cast production.
If you are looking to change up your Christmas this year, I recommend listening to, or reading, A Christian's Carol. It's the perfect blend of Christmases past, present, and many more to come.
*I received a free code for a copy of this book. The above review is my own honest evaluation of the provided work.*
September 12, 2020
Speechless
I didn't think a retelling of the Christmas Carol could be quite as good as the original. This book was just as good, if not better in some aspects. I'm speechless. Mr. Batson never ceases to astound me.
I didn't think a retelling of the Christmas Carol could be quite as good as the original. This book was just as good, if not better in some aspects. I'm speechless. Mr. Batson never ceases to astound me.
December 14, 2018
Well done. Though it follows the classic tale, it had plot twists that kept it from being predictable. I never saw the one in the graveyard coming.
November 3, 2019
Got to read this with kindle unlimited. I heard many good things about this book and wanted to give it a go. Plus that cover is just gorgeous. It immediately drew me in.
I feel like I’m on the average scale when it comes to the familiarity of the classic. It isn’t a particular favorite but never fails to entertain me. I found Batson’s retelling to be just as good. This is a modern take but I did appreciate how it kept familiar elements from the classic.
Naturally, the story opens with our MC, Ebenezer Krow. At first, the dude isn’t exactly your cup of tea. I like how in this retelling this version of Ebenezer isn’t just mean-spirited just for the sake of being mean, but rather he is fueled by his judgmental ways. He comes off as high-and-mighty and closed off. If it doesn’t line up his way then it’s wrong. Ebenezer Krow is beyond rude when people around him don’t meet his religious beliefs. Family is no exception. This part I found sad but the conflict between Krow and his nephew, Fred, was the most intriguing and moving to me.
I feel like I’m on the average scale when it comes to the familiarity of the classic. It isn’t a particular favorite but never fails to entertain me. I found Batson’s retelling to be just as good. This is a modern take but I did appreciate how it kept familiar elements from the classic.
Naturally, the story opens with our MC, Ebenezer Krow. At first, the dude isn’t exactly your cup of tea. I like how in this retelling this version of Ebenezer isn’t just mean-spirited just for the sake of being mean, but rather he is fueled by his judgmental ways. He comes off as high-and-mighty and closed off. If it doesn’t line up his way then it’s wrong. Ebenezer Krow is beyond rude when people around him don’t meet his religious beliefs. Family is no exception. This part I found sad but the conflict between Krow and his nephew, Fred, was the most intriguing and moving to me.
November 25, 2021
The shadows of A Christmas Carol resound in all its glory in this fabulous retelling. Such a warm, yet poignant contemporary telling of a man so consumed with his beliefs he lost his love for Christmas and compassion for all mankind.
What I especially enjoyed was how his heart changed. I'd love to mention all he did, but that would be a spoiler.
From Tiny Tom to Ebenezer Crow's long lost love we watch pieces of Ebenezer's too small heart grow three times larger with true Christmas love.
Recommended CF
What I especially enjoyed was how his heart changed. I'd love to mention all he did, but that would be a spoiler.
From Tiny Tom to Ebenezer Crow's long lost love we watch pieces of Ebenezer's too small heart grow three times larger with true Christmas love.
Recommended CF
December 27, 2018
Batson excellently retells Dickens' classic in a modern, explicitly Christian context in A Christian's Carol. However, without being caught up in the wonders of the modern world, Batson keeps the tale's original potency and piercing life application, however reworked for a world in which this Christmas classic has resided for decades. This book is a very valuable rendition of the classic story for Christians who are struggling with the problems of the modern world.
December 25, 2022
At first I almost didn't finish the book because I thought it was going in a direction I do not agree with, but as I like and trust the author's work from other books I've read, I pushed on. I'm glad I did. I think many Christians will find this book too controversial to enjoy it, but it does provide much food for thought.
January 1, 2024
A very close retelling of the original, in a modern setting, with added depth and conviction. We are taken on a journey of self-reflection with Ebenezer Krow, and brought to the point of uncomfortable recognition of our own self-righteousness. Batson is a master of story, and the light shines through this one, in the spirit of Christmas and grace.
did-not-finish
February 21, 2023Not sure if I'm not a fan of this author, or of Dickens. But the slow pace of this story just was not enough to keep my interest when there were so many other more intriguing books on my TBR list.
November 30, 2024
I really enjoyed this story, however, there are parts that go against Scripture. It's a shame because the rest of the story was good, but I wouldn't recommend it.
December 4, 2024
A modern day retelling of societal issues.
Treat all people with kindness and compassion!!
Treat all people with kindness and compassion!!
December 17, 2024
Scrooge’s nephew is married to a man in this modern retelling. Not a book suitable for children. Very disappointing.
December 27, 2019
A delightful rendering
As good a tale as ever told. Generously and boldly filled with faith and consequences. And just rewards. A somber reminder of how to keep Christmas in even today’s world.
As good a tale as ever told. Generously and boldly filled with faith and consequences. And just rewards. A somber reminder of how to keep Christmas in even today’s world.
May 29, 2025
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I picked up this story from Kindle Unlimited, but I ended up quite enjoying it and being moved as well. It’s very similar in style to A Christmas Carol, something that’s warm and welcoming in its familiarity. (Occasionally, this meant I had to remind myself that it’s set in New England in the twenty-first century rather than the Victorian era, but for me that wasn’t a downside.) In many aspects, A Christian’s Carol is an impactful, touching story that I can see myself returning to in future Christmas seasons. Infusing Charles Dickens’s original classic work with the Gospel in a modern setting, Wayne Thomas Batson has penned a new and readily applicable tale that’s properly creepy, poignant, and good. It’s more than just “feel-good” holiday vibes, something that’s wonderful and very welcome.
👻 content: References to what seems to be young Krow’s sexual abuse by a rector. References to homosexual relationships and a scene that cuts away right before two men kiss. Some mildly creepy imagery. Reference to a suicide. Death and tragedy. 👻
👻 content: References to what seems to be young Krow’s sexual abuse by a rector. References to homosexual relationships and a scene that cuts away right before two men kiss. Some mildly creepy imagery. Reference to a suicide. Death and tragedy. 👻
December 28, 2025
A great retelling of the classic tale by Charles Dickens. I'm as skeptical about "remakes" as anyone, but this was well written, and put a great modern twist on the story. Several modern day issues were worked into the story. The overall narrative doesn't deviate too far from the original, but it does throw in a couple plot twists to keep it interesting and make it relatable to a modern day audience. Many of the lessons learned by the main character are backed by scriptural references. It does not hold back, and is definitely not hampered by political correctness. Yet, it still manages to recapture the compassion of the original story.
December 25, 2019
A very good retelling of the story - well worth a read...
Second read through and this book is filled with lots of thought provoking subplots that get you to ask the question, do I act like that.
Second read through and this book is filled with lots of thought provoking subplots that get you to ask the question, do I act like that.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews