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The Legend of Decimus Croome: A Halloween Carol
Decimus Croome is a dastardly curmudgeon who hates all holidays but especially despises Halloween. He is content to live in his gloomy old house and avoid all human contact whenever possible. He even shuns his own daughter and grandson. But Croome's life changes one memorable Halloween when four ghastly spirits visit him to reveal the misery he has inflicted upon his friends, neighbors and family members.
Based on A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, The Legend of Decimus Croome is bound to become a Halloween classic for readers of all ages. Follow old man Croome as he is visited by the lovely but disturbing spirit of his dearly departed wife. She warns him of three spirits yet to follow. And oh what spirits they are. Each one is more frightening than the last as they deliver a chilling message for Croome and his fellow Halloween humbugs.
The Ghost of Halloween Past is a truly horrifying yet disturbingly hilarious spirit who delivers Croome to his distant and not-so-distant past. Along the journey, Croome is warmed with nostalgia then terrified by painful memories from Halloweens gone by.
The second spirit is a shape-shifting witch who breaks every stereotype about witches while nearly driving Croome insane with her wild antics and slapstick delivery. As the Ghost of Halloween Present, she takes Croome on a crazy magic carpet ride that reveals his negative influence on those closest to him. The witch also introduces Croome to the magic of Halloween on enchanted visits further afield.
The third phantasm delivers the final glimpse of Croome's diabolically repulsive life and the future that is in store for him if he doesn't change his wicked ways. Croome is forced to confront the impending consequences of his cruel and heartless lifestyle. He is spirited away to a bleak future including a terrifying visit to a desolate cemetery.
Throughout this delightful and spooky Halloween novel, you will be haunted by ghosts, inspired by a brave young leukemia patient and entertained by a precocious feline named Black Magic.
Join Tommy Bobbich, Decimus Croome and a whole cast of ghosts, witches and ghouls in this modern day holiday story that is sure to provide you with chills, laughs and even a few touching moments as you read The Legend of Decimus Croome: a Halloween Carol. You will never look at Halloween the same again.
Based on A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, The Legend of Decimus Croome is bound to become a Halloween classic for readers of all ages. Follow old man Croome as he is visited by the lovely but disturbing spirit of his dearly departed wife. She warns him of three spirits yet to follow. And oh what spirits they are. Each one is more frightening than the last as they deliver a chilling message for Croome and his fellow Halloween humbugs.
The Ghost of Halloween Past is a truly horrifying yet disturbingly hilarious spirit who delivers Croome to his distant and not-so-distant past. Along the journey, Croome is warmed with nostalgia then terrified by painful memories from Halloweens gone by.
The second spirit is a shape-shifting witch who breaks every stereotype about witches while nearly driving Croome insane with her wild antics and slapstick delivery. As the Ghost of Halloween Present, she takes Croome on a crazy magic carpet ride that reveals his negative influence on those closest to him. The witch also introduces Croome to the magic of Halloween on enchanted visits further afield.
The third phantasm delivers the final glimpse of Croome's diabolically repulsive life and the future that is in store for him if he doesn't change his wicked ways. Croome is forced to confront the impending consequences of his cruel and heartless lifestyle. He is spirited away to a bleak future including a terrifying visit to a desolate cemetery.
Throughout this delightful and spooky Halloween novel, you will be haunted by ghosts, inspired by a brave young leukemia patient and entertained by a precocious feline named Black Magic.
Join Tommy Bobbich, Decimus Croome and a whole cast of ghosts, witches and ghouls in this modern day holiday story that is sure to provide you with chills, laughs and even a few touching moments as you read The Legend of Decimus Croome: a Halloween Carol. You will never look at Halloween the same again.
192 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 4, 2016
16 people are currently reading
532 people want to read
About the author
Kevin Purdy
1 book15 followersKevin has lived in Montana, Oregon and Colorado. He spent many years as a middle school teacher before becoming a full-time writer. Kevin writes middle grades fiction and non-fiction for fellow authors.
Kevin's first published novel is "The Legend of Decimus Croome: A Halloween Carol." It is the tale of a hard-hearted man who hates all holidays but particularly despises Halloween. Based on "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens, "The Legend of Decimus Croome" is the perfect book for some entertaining autumn reading. It is mildly spooky, but mostly funny with an excellent lesson for anyone who has lost the magic of Halloween.
Kevin's next book will be published soon, and it is based on Washington Irving's "Legend of Sleepy Hollow."
If you are a middle grades teacher, parent, librarian or author, you should consider connecting with Kevin via his website: PurdyBooks.com where you will find lots of information about middle grade books, middle school reading instruction and how to motivate middle grade students to read more.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Kevin's first published novel is "The Legend of Decimus Croome: A Halloween Carol." It is the tale of a hard-hearted man who hates all holidays but particularly despises Halloween. Based on "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens, "The Legend of Decimus Croome" is the perfect book for some entertaining autumn reading. It is mildly spooky, but mostly funny with an excellent lesson for anyone who has lost the magic of Halloween.
Kevin's next book will be published soon, and it is based on Washington Irving's "Legend of Sleepy Hollow."
If you are a middle grades teacher, parent, librarian or author, you should consider connecting with Kevin via his website: PurdyBooks.com where you will find lots of information about middle grade books, middle school reading instruction and how to motivate middle grade students to read more.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
October 8, 2020
That was such fun!
Happy Halloween! 🎃🍂🍁
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
Happy Halloween! 🎃🍂🍁
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
May 5, 2024
4.5 stars
I’m a big fan of A Christmas Carol and yes, now I’m a fan of A Halloween Carol. I laughed and I cried and now I also grinned (at the references). This is a modern day retelling of A hriaimed at a younger audience and I loved it.
“You scared the Dickens out of me!”
I’m a big fan of A Christmas Carol and yes, now I’m a fan of A Halloween Carol. I laughed and I cried and now I also grinned (at the references). This is a modern day retelling of A hriaimed at a younger audience and I loved it.
“You scared the Dickens out of me!”
January 18, 2018
I read this book via an Amazon-US KINDLE Unlimited download.
What do you get when you combine those ghost stories you loved to listen around the campfires on your family camping trips or at those summer sleepaway camps with the essence of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” with Halloween? You get this intricate story written by Kevin Purdy.
Just like Ebenezer Scrooge despises anything and everything having to do with Christmas, Decimus Croome is the same when it comes every last holiday people enjoy celebrating, and most specifically when it comes to Halloween.
The protagonist we’ve got in this book is reprehensible sourpuss like Scrooge, who’s satisfied living in a dismal looking home, and being recluse who’s happy with his solitude lifestyle devoid of any human contact. A lifestyle in which he avoids his own family, especially that of his own daughter and grandson.
Staying true to the beloved storyline line created by Dickens, Croome is first visited by the spirit of his beloved deceased wife [Marley] who comes and warns him of the impending visits of three spirits. And instead of each coming with a message regard a specific period of his life: past, present and future; these spirits want him to remember and learn about the Halloweens he’s experienced growing up, the impact his current unbeknownst behavior is having on everyone around him, and naturally what might happen if he doesn’t heed what is being told to him and changes his infernal existence and dreadful ways. These ghosts become increasingly frightening, adding to the seriousness of the message they’re intended on bringing him.
There’s a myriad of emotions being generated as one reads this book, from apprehensions to laughter to even times when heartstrings are being plucked; which when combined with everything else leads me to give 5 STARS to Mr. Purdy and this book.
What do you get when you combine those ghost stories you loved to listen around the campfires on your family camping trips or at those summer sleepaway camps with the essence of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” with Halloween? You get this intricate story written by Kevin Purdy.
Just like Ebenezer Scrooge despises anything and everything having to do with Christmas, Decimus Croome is the same when it comes every last holiday people enjoy celebrating, and most specifically when it comes to Halloween.
The protagonist we’ve got in this book is reprehensible sourpuss like Scrooge, who’s satisfied living in a dismal looking home, and being recluse who’s happy with his solitude lifestyle devoid of any human contact. A lifestyle in which he avoids his own family, especially that of his own daughter and grandson.
Staying true to the beloved storyline line created by Dickens, Croome is first visited by the spirit of his beloved deceased wife [Marley] who comes and warns him of the impending visits of three spirits. And instead of each coming with a message regard a specific period of his life: past, present and future; these spirits want him to remember and learn about the Halloweens he’s experienced growing up, the impact his current unbeknownst behavior is having on everyone around him, and naturally what might happen if he doesn’t heed what is being told to him and changes his infernal existence and dreadful ways. These ghosts become increasingly frightening, adding to the seriousness of the message they’re intended on bringing him.
There’s a myriad of emotions being generated as one reads this book, from apprehensions to laughter to even times when heartstrings are being plucked; which when combined with everything else leads me to give 5 STARS to Mr. Purdy and this book.
September 3, 2019
A retelling of a Christmas Carol, but taking place on Halloween. Decimus Croome has lot his Halloween spirit years ago after losing his wife, a lover of Halloween. Very quickly he loses enthusiasm for pretty much everything. A visit from three spirits sets him on the right path and away from being a curmudgeonly, miserly man.
I was skeptical about this book at first. If the story hadn’t included Decimus’ connection to Halloween, and was just a rip off of A Christmas Carol I would have been disappointed, thankfully, that wasn’t the case. Decimus has to fix things with his family, employee, Halloween and holiday spirit, and the community at large as well. Doing so brings back the joy he hasn’t felt since his wife passed. Anyone who has experienced loss can relate to not wanting to experience happiness after the loss. However, after some healing time occurs, it is time to get back to enjoying life instead of just suffering. This tale is a delightful one, and I ended up very proud of Decimus and the changes he rapidly made.
My only gripe is that some of the vocabulary may be difficult for children. If it is an ebook they are reading, it is easy to look up definitions on the device at least!
Great read for the season!
I was skeptical about this book at first. If the story hadn’t included Decimus’ connection to Halloween, and was just a rip off of A Christmas Carol I would have been disappointed, thankfully, that wasn’t the case. Decimus has to fix things with his family, employee, Halloween and holiday spirit, and the community at large as well. Doing so brings back the joy he hasn’t felt since his wife passed. Anyone who has experienced loss can relate to not wanting to experience happiness after the loss. However, after some healing time occurs, it is time to get back to enjoying life instead of just suffering. This tale is a delightful one, and I ended up very proud of Decimus and the changes he rapidly made.
My only gripe is that some of the vocabulary may be difficult for children. If it is an ebook they are reading, it is easy to look up definitions on the device at least!
Great read for the season!
September 17, 2019
Decimus Croome has closed himself off from everyone that comes into his world. He cannot get over the loss of his true love—his wife. When his wife died, he still had a daughter to raise but even with her, he was remote emotionally. Like her mother, she was born on Halloween. They loved decorating the house for Halloween. Decimus would not let his daughter decorate the house for Halloween or have a birthday party. He owned a hardware store that had been owned by his father. He hires a man for the store while he hides out in his office. Why? On Halloween Eve, he has three spirits visit him. Will he listen to the lessons the spirits are trying to give him?
This story will remind adults of the famous story “A Christmas carol” by Charles Dickens. It’s very well written with touches of humor. I was enchanted with what the spirits showed him. It’s a fun story with reminders to be kind to everyone. I
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
This story will remind adults of the famous story “A Christmas carol” by Charles Dickens. It’s very well written with touches of humor. I was enchanted with what the spirits showed him. It’s a fun story with reminders to be kind to everyone. I
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
August 16, 2019
A happy, content Decimus Croome changed for worst after his wife’s untimely demise and is a bitter old man now who despises every festival, especially Halloween. A cranky recluse, he lives in his gloomy old house and leaves no chance to inflict misery upon others. But four ghostly spirits visit Croome a night before Halloween and change his perspective toward life.
Inspired by Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the concept of the good and the malevolent is beautifully carried out in the book. The atmosphere in the book brims with Halloween mood, and Purdy’s excellent recreations of the life and the vigor of a small-town during Halloween celebrations add intrigue to the story.
With its realistic characters, ageless wisdom, and spooky atmosphere, the book will appeal equally to the old and the young. A must read!
Inspired by Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the concept of the good and the malevolent is beautifully carried out in the book. The atmosphere in the book brims with Halloween mood, and Purdy’s excellent recreations of the life and the vigor of a small-town during Halloween celebrations add intrigue to the story.
With its realistic characters, ageless wisdom, and spooky atmosphere, the book will appeal equally to the old and the young. A must read!
November 3, 2019
Decimus Coome despises Halloween. He is content to live out his life alone with only his garden to keep him company. He has even pushed his own daughter and grandson from his life with his hatred of Halloween and celebrations. That is until the night before Halloween when he is visited by four spirits. Can Decimus make the changes in his life before his fate is sealed?
This is such a fun read for the Halloween Season. It will definitely put you in the Halloween spirit. I really enjoyed this unique spin on the classic Christmas Carol. The story is very well done and the characters were kept pretty true to the classic. I recommend this book to Halloween fans, and fans of The Christmas Carol.
I voluntarily agreed to read a copy of this book supplied by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.
This is such a fun read for the Halloween Season. It will definitely put you in the Halloween spirit. I really enjoyed this unique spin on the classic Christmas Carol. The story is very well done and the characters were kept pretty true to the classic. I recommend this book to Halloween fans, and fans of The Christmas Carol.
I voluntarily agreed to read a copy of this book supplied by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.
October 7, 2019
I thought this was a good Halloween version of A Christmas Carol. I liked that it was updated. There are many changes to this story that make it appealing but the overall story is the same as A Christmas Carol. I cried reading this book. I also laughed. If you love A Christmas Carol you will love this Halloween version. It also the best time to read this as Halloween is fast approaching.
*I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
*I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
October 6, 2017
At first it seemed like this book would just be mediocre, but the more I read, the more I loved it. It may be the best Halloween book I've ever read. It's kind of a Goldilocks type Halloween book... not too scary, not too childish. It had just the right amount of spooky elements to keep it interesting, but not any blood & gore to make it unrealistic horror.
November 24, 2019
Great read around Halloween! Decimus hates all holidays but hates Halloween the most. He's content with no human contact and having a gloomy life. This book is based on "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens. Only Halloween not Christmas. It's scary funny. The ghost of Halloween past shape-shifting witch and last but not least they have a phantasm.
August 22, 2019
This was such a fun retelling of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. It captures the essense, the story and the characters of the original story really well. The Legend of Decimus Croome is still original in its own right, even as a retelling. I suspect a lot of people would love to read this.
August 26, 2019
A brilliant retelling of Dickens' Christmas Carol.
I found it gripping, entertaining and well written.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I found it gripping, entertaining and well written.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
October 17, 2017
Loved this book! Great book to read around Halloween. It will definitely put you in the Halloween Spirit!!!
October 30, 2018
If you love A Christmas Carol you'll love this I sure did!
August 12, 2019
Disclaimer: I received this galley in exchange for an honest review.
Part 1: From The Book Cover
Decimus Croome is a dastardly curmudgeon who hates all holidays but especially despises Halloween. He is content to live in his gloomy old house and avoid all human contact whenever possible. He even shuns his own daughter and grandson. But Croome's life changes one memorable Halloween when four ghastly spirits visit him to reveal the misery he has inflicted upon his friends, neighbors and family members.
Based on A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, The Legend of Decimus Croome is bound to become a Halloween classic for readers of all ages. Follow old man Croome as he is visited by the lovely but disturbing spirit of his dearly departed wife. She warns him of three spirits yet to follow. And oh what spirits they are. Each one is more frightening than the last as they deliver a chilling message for Croome and his fellow Halloween humbugs.
The Ghost of Halloween Past is a truly horrifying yet disturbingly hilarious spirit who delivers Croome to his distant and not-so-distant past. Along the journey, Croome is warmed with nostalgia then terrified by painful memories from Halloweens gone by.
The second spirit is a shape-shifting witch who breaks every stereotype about witches while nearly driving Croome insane with her wild antics and slapstick delivery. As the Ghost of Halloween Present, she takes Croome on a crazy magic carpet ride that reveals his negative influence on those closest to him. The witch also introduces Croome to the magic of Halloween on enchanted visits further afield.
The third phantasm delivers the final glimpse of Croome's diabolically repulsive life and the future that is in store for him if he doesn't change his wicked ways. Croome is forced to confront the impending consequences of his cruel and heartless lifestyle. He is spirited away to a bleak future including a terrifying visit to a desolate cemetery.
Throughout this delightful and spooky Halloween novel, you will be haunted by ghosts, inspired by a brave young leukemia patient and entertained by a precocious feline named Black Magic.
Join Tommy Bobbich, Decimus Croome and a whole cast of ghosts, witches and ghouls in this modern day holiday story that is sure to provide you with chills, laughs, and even a few touching moments as you read The Legend of Decimus Croome: A Halloween Carol. You will never look at Halloween the same again.
Part 2: Recommendation
I love Halloween (even though I tend to be lazy when it comes to dressing up, decorating and giving out candies because all I want to do on Halloween is to eat pizza and popcorn while watching a movie marathon of all of my favorite Halloween movies) and I love Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. At first I wasn't sure if I want to read and review this book (because I don't want A Christmas Carol to be ruined by another retelling) but upon further research, majority of this book's Amazon and GoodReads reviews were 5-stars. So I figured, why not give it a try and I am quite curious to know how the author Kevin Purdy translates the major plot points of A Christmas Carol into Halloween.
Well, I have to say kudos to Kevin Purdy for his work in The Legend of Decimus Croome: A Halloween Carol. It's very well written and true to the "Spirit of Halloween" ala Dickens style. It makes me wonder if the author is planning on coming out with another holiday carol book.
Decimus Croome definitely has Mr. Scrooge's cranky and downright nasty personality towards anyone and anything related to Halloween. Sam Bobbich and Tommy Bobbich represented Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim respectively. Patricia Croome, the late wife of Decimus Croome took the place of Jacob Marley while his son-in-law, Darren Tate, took the place of Fred, Mr. Scrooge's nephew, who always invites Mr. Croome to their annual Halloween party. Fezziwig was aptly represented by Stan Croome, Decimus' late father, who left the Croome Hardware store to Decimus.
The book opens with a scene establishing Decimus Croome as the Halloween humbug when he encountered Tommy and his older sister Kate by the Halloween decor aisle and what he later did to the two teen boys running around the Home Emporium, the competing hardware store, while buying an axe. Decimus Croome does have a wicked sense of humor and it showed when he exited the Home Emporium with a smirk on his face and mumbling, "Pest clean-up in aisle three … Who needs a stake through the heart when you've got lawn tractors?" or when he asked Darren, "A Halloween party? … and what exactly does one celebrate at a Halloween party? Is it a werewolf's birthday, a mummy's bar mitzvah or perhaps a witch's wedding anniversary?"
Another line from the book that I dearly loved was when Decimus asked Patricia's ghost, "…if you didn't choose it, and I didn't choose it, then why … did I have to spend my life without the one I loved most?…" and Patricia's answer was the best, "You cannot choose when or how you die, but you can choose how you live."
When Decimus observed how, "… it took so little to make a child like Tommy happy" the Spirit of Halloween Present said, "… It would appear that you might have underestimated the magic of Halloween." Decimus also realized "… that the joy of Halloween had not department this world. It had only departed his world."
When the Spirit of Halloween Present introduced Apathy and Greed, the scene with the two "little monsters" was quite spooky, "They belong to all of us and none of us. They are children of the world … they have grown particularly repulsive in the present day … When I am long gone, they will remain to haunt you and your brethren … they appear small but have a remarkable impact upon us all … They are not here with me, Decimus Croome. They are here with you."
And that scene with the Spirit of Halloween Future where they were visiting the Bobbich family and Decimus began pleading with Sam just about broke my heart.
And to round it all up, the light-hearted, happy and nice Decimus Croome making an appearance at the annual Tate Halloween party tied everything up like a festive Halloween wreath.
Overall, the plot, dialogue and characters lived up to the original classic and I have no doubt of this book by Kevin Purdy easily becoming a Halloween favorite just like A Christmas Carol. Truly inspiring.
Part 1: From The Book Cover
Decimus Croome is a dastardly curmudgeon who hates all holidays but especially despises Halloween. He is content to live in his gloomy old house and avoid all human contact whenever possible. He even shuns his own daughter and grandson. But Croome's life changes one memorable Halloween when four ghastly spirits visit him to reveal the misery he has inflicted upon his friends, neighbors and family members.
Based on A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, The Legend of Decimus Croome is bound to become a Halloween classic for readers of all ages. Follow old man Croome as he is visited by the lovely but disturbing spirit of his dearly departed wife. She warns him of three spirits yet to follow. And oh what spirits they are. Each one is more frightening than the last as they deliver a chilling message for Croome and his fellow Halloween humbugs.
The Ghost of Halloween Past is a truly horrifying yet disturbingly hilarious spirit who delivers Croome to his distant and not-so-distant past. Along the journey, Croome is warmed with nostalgia then terrified by painful memories from Halloweens gone by.
The second spirit is a shape-shifting witch who breaks every stereotype about witches while nearly driving Croome insane with her wild antics and slapstick delivery. As the Ghost of Halloween Present, she takes Croome on a crazy magic carpet ride that reveals his negative influence on those closest to him. The witch also introduces Croome to the magic of Halloween on enchanted visits further afield.
The third phantasm delivers the final glimpse of Croome's diabolically repulsive life and the future that is in store for him if he doesn't change his wicked ways. Croome is forced to confront the impending consequences of his cruel and heartless lifestyle. He is spirited away to a bleak future including a terrifying visit to a desolate cemetery.
Throughout this delightful and spooky Halloween novel, you will be haunted by ghosts, inspired by a brave young leukemia patient and entertained by a precocious feline named Black Magic.
Join Tommy Bobbich, Decimus Croome and a whole cast of ghosts, witches and ghouls in this modern day holiday story that is sure to provide you with chills, laughs, and even a few touching moments as you read The Legend of Decimus Croome: A Halloween Carol. You will never look at Halloween the same again.
Part 2: Recommendation
I love Halloween (even though I tend to be lazy when it comes to dressing up, decorating and giving out candies because all I want to do on Halloween is to eat pizza and popcorn while watching a movie marathon of all of my favorite Halloween movies) and I love Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. At first I wasn't sure if I want to read and review this book (because I don't want A Christmas Carol to be ruined by another retelling) but upon further research, majority of this book's Amazon and GoodReads reviews were 5-stars. So I figured, why not give it a try and I am quite curious to know how the author Kevin Purdy translates the major plot points of A Christmas Carol into Halloween.
Well, I have to say kudos to Kevin Purdy for his work in The Legend of Decimus Croome: A Halloween Carol. It's very well written and true to the "Spirit of Halloween" ala Dickens style. It makes me wonder if the author is planning on coming out with another holiday carol book.
Decimus Croome definitely has Mr. Scrooge's cranky and downright nasty personality towards anyone and anything related to Halloween. Sam Bobbich and Tommy Bobbich represented Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim respectively. Patricia Croome, the late wife of Decimus Croome took the place of Jacob Marley while his son-in-law, Darren Tate, took the place of Fred, Mr. Scrooge's nephew, who always invites Mr. Croome to their annual Halloween party. Fezziwig was aptly represented by Stan Croome, Decimus' late father, who left the Croome Hardware store to Decimus.
The book opens with a scene establishing Decimus Croome as the Halloween humbug when he encountered Tommy and his older sister Kate by the Halloween decor aisle and what he later did to the two teen boys running around the Home Emporium, the competing hardware store, while buying an axe. Decimus Croome does have a wicked sense of humor and it showed when he exited the Home Emporium with a smirk on his face and mumbling, "Pest clean-up in aisle three … Who needs a stake through the heart when you've got lawn tractors?" or when he asked Darren, "A Halloween party? … and what exactly does one celebrate at a Halloween party? Is it a werewolf's birthday, a mummy's bar mitzvah or perhaps a witch's wedding anniversary?"
Another line from the book that I dearly loved was when Decimus asked Patricia's ghost, "…if you didn't choose it, and I didn't choose it, then why … did I have to spend my life without the one I loved most?…" and Patricia's answer was the best, "You cannot choose when or how you die, but you can choose how you live."
When Decimus observed how, "… it took so little to make a child like Tommy happy" the Spirit of Halloween Present said, "… It would appear that you might have underestimated the magic of Halloween." Decimus also realized "… that the joy of Halloween had not department this world. It had only departed his world."
When the Spirit of Halloween Present introduced Apathy and Greed, the scene with the two "little monsters" was quite spooky, "They belong to all of us and none of us. They are children of the world … they have grown particularly repulsive in the present day … When I am long gone, they will remain to haunt you and your brethren … they appear small but have a remarkable impact upon us all … They are not here with me, Decimus Croome. They are here with you."
And that scene with the Spirit of Halloween Future where they were visiting the Bobbich family and Decimus began pleading with Sam just about broke my heart.
And to round it all up, the light-hearted, happy and nice Decimus Croome making an appearance at the annual Tate Halloween party tied everything up like a festive Halloween wreath.
Overall, the plot, dialogue and characters lived up to the original classic and I have no doubt of this book by Kevin Purdy easily becoming a Halloween favorite just like A Christmas Carol. Truly inspiring.
October 28, 2021
My first impression of this story was to wonder if it was meant to be a children's story, as the child characters and young sounding storytelling voice struck me that way. After finishing, I'm still not sure. The Amazon listing says 8-18 years so maybe so. I would place it at Middle Grade.
The concept was great. Some of the one liners were very good and overall, the plot has much to be said for it. The writing did feel at a young level and belaboured pretty much every plot point. There were times I was thinking just get on with it!
The first two spirits were overblown caricatures to the point of being irritating. Decimus Croome himself, our Halloween Scrooge, was given a plausible reason for being an old crank. Many points were close to the Christmas Carol model, but the author deviated into some original ideas which were very creative.
Altogether a passable Halloween story and enjoyable if your expectations aren't looking for Dickens' genius.
The concept was great. Some of the one liners were very good and overall, the plot has much to be said for it. The writing did feel at a young level and belaboured pretty much every plot point. There were times I was thinking just get on with it!
The first two spirits were overblown caricatures to the point of being irritating. Decimus Croome himself, our Halloween Scrooge, was given a plausible reason for being an old crank. Many points were close to the Christmas Carol model, but the author deviated into some original ideas which were very creative.
Altogether a passable Halloween story and enjoyable if your expectations aren't looking for Dickens' genius.
February 8, 2019
A Halloween Treat
This story strongly follows the Dickens Christmas Carol format. My favorite parts parts were the more original sections of the story--the beginning and the end. All in all, it was a cute story and I'll definitely be adding it to my seasonal reading list.
This story strongly follows the Dickens Christmas Carol format. My favorite parts parts were the more original sections of the story--the beginning and the end. All in all, it was a cute story and I'll definitely be adding it to my seasonal reading list.
October 25, 2021
this was cute!!
August 18, 2019
Decimus Croome is a dastardly curmudgeon who hates all holidays but especially despises Halloween. He is content to live in his gloomy old house and avoid all human contact whenever possible. He even shuns his own daughter and grandson. But Croome's life changes one memorable Halloween when four ghastly spirits visit him to reveal the misery he has inflicted upon his friends, neighbors and family members.
Based on A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, The Legend of Decimus Croome is bound to become a Halloween classic for readers of all ages. Follow old man Croome as he is visited by the lovely but disturbing spirit of his dearly departed wife. She warns him of three spirits yet to follow. And oh what spirits they are. Each one is more frightening than the last as they deliver a chilling message for Croome and his fellow Halloween humbugs.
The Ghost of Halloween Past is a truly horrifying yet disturbingly hilarious spirit who delivers Croome to his distant and not-so-distant past. Along the journey, Croome is warmed with nostalgia then terrified by painful memories from Halloweens gone by.
The second spirit is a shape-shifting witch who breaks every stereotype about witches while nearly driving Croome insane with her wild antics and slapstick delivery. As the Ghost of Halloween Present, she takes Croome on a crazy magic carpet ride that reveals his negative influence on those closest to him. The witch also introduces Croome to the magic of Halloween on enchanted visits further afield.
The third phantasm delivers the final glimpse of Croome's diabolically repulsive life and the future that is in store for him if he doesn't change his wicked ways. Croome is forced to confront the impending consequences of his cruel and heartless lifestyle. He is spirited away to a bleak future including a terrifying visit to a desolate cemetery.
Throughout this delightful and spooky Halloween novel, you will be haunted by ghosts, inspired by a brave young leukemia patient and entertained by a precocious feline named Black Magic.
Join Tommy Bobbich, Decimus Croome and a whole cast of ghosts, witches and ghouls in this modern day holiday story that is sure to provide you with chills, laughs and even a few touching moments as you read The Legend of Decimus Croome: a Halloween Carol. You will never look at Halloween the same again.
This was a brilliant read.
Such a clever way to retell this story.
Brilliant plot and story line.
Loved the characters and the way they were fleshed out.
Absolutely loved it.
Recommend reading.
I received my arc through netgalley and the publisher so many thanks to them.
Based on A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, The Legend of Decimus Croome is bound to become a Halloween classic for readers of all ages. Follow old man Croome as he is visited by the lovely but disturbing spirit of his dearly departed wife. She warns him of three spirits yet to follow. And oh what spirits they are. Each one is more frightening than the last as they deliver a chilling message for Croome and his fellow Halloween humbugs.
The Ghost of Halloween Past is a truly horrifying yet disturbingly hilarious spirit who delivers Croome to his distant and not-so-distant past. Along the journey, Croome is warmed with nostalgia then terrified by painful memories from Halloweens gone by.
The second spirit is a shape-shifting witch who breaks every stereotype about witches while nearly driving Croome insane with her wild antics and slapstick delivery. As the Ghost of Halloween Present, she takes Croome on a crazy magic carpet ride that reveals his negative influence on those closest to him. The witch also introduces Croome to the magic of Halloween on enchanted visits further afield.
The third phantasm delivers the final glimpse of Croome's diabolically repulsive life and the future that is in store for him if he doesn't change his wicked ways. Croome is forced to confront the impending consequences of his cruel and heartless lifestyle. He is spirited away to a bleak future including a terrifying visit to a desolate cemetery.
Throughout this delightful and spooky Halloween novel, you will be haunted by ghosts, inspired by a brave young leukemia patient and entertained by a precocious feline named Black Magic.
Join Tommy Bobbich, Decimus Croome and a whole cast of ghosts, witches and ghouls in this modern day holiday story that is sure to provide you with chills, laughs and even a few touching moments as you read The Legend of Decimus Croome: a Halloween Carol. You will never look at Halloween the same again.
This was a brilliant read.
Such a clever way to retell this story.
Brilliant plot and story line.
Loved the characters and the way they were fleshed out.
Absolutely loved it.
Recommend reading.
I received my arc through netgalley and the publisher so many thanks to them.
November 1, 2019
Being a fan of Dickens' Christmas Carol, I was intrigued by the idea of a Halloween version.
Decimus Croome is a lonely old curmudgeon who owns a hardware store which is struggling when a big box hardware emporium moves into the community. He only has one employee and most of the time fewer customers. Said employee has a child struggling with a physical illness. Do you recognize the storyline?
The book opens with a very dark and disturbing scene of graveyards and zombies and an overdose of alliteration. Until Decimus stumbles onto the scene and we discover things are even worse! It is Halloween and all is not as it seems.
Decimus has a reputation. He is not the one handing out full size candy bars to costumed revelers.
His store is not the most decorated among the merchants. He does, however have a black cat, for whom he has a soft spot.
On the eve of Halloween Decimus is visited by spirits (and spiders and the loving essence of his beloved wife, mother to his daughter. He is reminded that there were days when he enjoyed the holiday and company of friends. He also must revisit turning points when his own behavior is enough to scare a spirit!
If you are a fan of the Christmas classic, give this different perspective a try. I think you may find it a treat.
Decimus Croome is a lonely old curmudgeon who owns a hardware store which is struggling when a big box hardware emporium moves into the community. He only has one employee and most of the time fewer customers. Said employee has a child struggling with a physical illness. Do you recognize the storyline?
The book opens with a very dark and disturbing scene of graveyards and zombies and an overdose of alliteration. Until Decimus stumbles onto the scene and we discover things are even worse! It is Halloween and all is not as it seems.
Decimus has a reputation. He is not the one handing out full size candy bars to costumed revelers.
His store is not the most decorated among the merchants. He does, however have a black cat, for whom he has a soft spot.
On the eve of Halloween Decimus is visited by spirits (and spiders and the loving essence of his beloved wife, mother to his daughter. He is reminded that there were days when he enjoyed the holiday and company of friends. He also must revisit turning points when his own behavior is enough to scare a spirit!
If you are a fan of the Christmas classic, give this different perspective a try. I think you may find it a treat.
October 31, 2017
Wow. en virkelig sød historie om en gammel mand der finder glæden ved halloween. Det var en god og kort historie til halloween 😊
October 28, 2020
I need this to be a movie 🎃
October 21, 2019
Three and a half stars: A cute, fun Halloween remake of an old classic.
Decimus Croome wasn’t always the local curmudgeon. He once had a beautiful wife, a daughter and a joyous life. When his lovely wife was taken all too soon from him, Decimus forgot how to live. The last few years, Decimus ignored everyone around him, even his own daughter. His hardware story is nearly deserted, he has no friends, and everyone avoids him. Even the kids no better than to trick or treat at his house on Halloween, unless they want carrot sticks. Then one Halloween Eve, Decimus is visited by his dearly departed wife. She tells him that he will be visited by three spirits, all with a chilling message for him. Will Decimus heed what the spirts have to tell him?
What I Liked:
*The Legend of Decimus Croome was a book I had to try as I am an avid lover of Dicken’s classic tale: A Christmas Carol. In this version, the story takes place on Halloween Eve and instead of visions of Christmas past, present and future, the reader is treated to images of Halloweens in the three time periods. All in all, this was a fun refashioning of an old classic.
*I liked that Decimus wasn’t a money hungry old man who had practically no joy in his life. Instead, Decimus had a fun childhood as well as a happy marriage. He was blessed with a wife and daughter. His problems derived from the loss of his wife. It was refreshing to get a strong departure from the Scrooge character.
*I also liked that the story centered around the hardware store which was once a busy and joyous place. The store was run by Decimus’s father. Everyone in town sought out the advice of the Mr. Croome in his hardware store. These days just like Decimus, the hardware story is gloomy and run down.
The spirits themselves are also quite a bit different from the Dicken’s version. Think a grinning jack o’ lantern, a transforming witch and a final phantasm. Each spirit has wisdom to impart.
The Bobbich family stands in for the Crachett family. Young Tommy is battling cancer. I loved the way the town rallied around the Bobbich family even before Croome’s transformation.
*The end is delightful. I especially loved the scene where Decimus attempts to dress up as a Frankenstein monster and he gets the head on backwards. The Halloween party is also lots of fun at the end. All in all, a fun ending.
And The Not So Much:
*I am all for metaphors and similes and creative writing, but I must admit the synonyms and metaphors got to be too heavy handed. It was if the author wrote the book and looked up every word in the thesaurus. It was over the top. I honestly grew tired of wading through the excessive thesaurus words. It needed to be toned way down.
*For an independent novel, this was for the most part, a delightful read. However, there were a few mistakes here and there, and as I mentioned too much over the top vocabulary. A little editing would make this so much better.
The Legend of Decimus Croome was a fun retake on a well worn classic. I liked that this one was all about Halloween. The main character was a departure from Scrooge, and I appreciated that his issues stemmed from the loss of his wife rather than being a greedy miser. If you want an entertaining read for Halloween, and if you are a fan of A Christmas Carol this is one to try. Be warned the metaphors and vocabulary are a little over the top. Still it is one to enjoy.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Decimus Croome wasn’t always the local curmudgeon. He once had a beautiful wife, a daughter and a joyous life. When his lovely wife was taken all too soon from him, Decimus forgot how to live. The last few years, Decimus ignored everyone around him, even his own daughter. His hardware story is nearly deserted, he has no friends, and everyone avoids him. Even the kids no better than to trick or treat at his house on Halloween, unless they want carrot sticks. Then one Halloween Eve, Decimus is visited by his dearly departed wife. She tells him that he will be visited by three spirits, all with a chilling message for him. Will Decimus heed what the spirts have to tell him?
What I Liked:
*The Legend of Decimus Croome was a book I had to try as I am an avid lover of Dicken’s classic tale: A Christmas Carol. In this version, the story takes place on Halloween Eve and instead of visions of Christmas past, present and future, the reader is treated to images of Halloweens in the three time periods. All in all, this was a fun refashioning of an old classic.
*I liked that Decimus wasn’t a money hungry old man who had practically no joy in his life. Instead, Decimus had a fun childhood as well as a happy marriage. He was blessed with a wife and daughter. His problems derived from the loss of his wife. It was refreshing to get a strong departure from the Scrooge character.
*I also liked that the story centered around the hardware store which was once a busy and joyous place. The store was run by Decimus’s father. Everyone in town sought out the advice of the Mr. Croome in his hardware store. These days just like Decimus, the hardware story is gloomy and run down.
The spirits themselves are also quite a bit different from the Dicken’s version. Think a grinning jack o’ lantern, a transforming witch and a final phantasm. Each spirit has wisdom to impart.
The Bobbich family stands in for the Crachett family. Young Tommy is battling cancer. I loved the way the town rallied around the Bobbich family even before Croome’s transformation.
*The end is delightful. I especially loved the scene where Decimus attempts to dress up as a Frankenstein monster and he gets the head on backwards. The Halloween party is also lots of fun at the end. All in all, a fun ending.
And The Not So Much:
*I am all for metaphors and similes and creative writing, but I must admit the synonyms and metaphors got to be too heavy handed. It was if the author wrote the book and looked up every word in the thesaurus. It was over the top. I honestly grew tired of wading through the excessive thesaurus words. It needed to be toned way down.
*For an independent novel, this was for the most part, a delightful read. However, there were a few mistakes here and there, and as I mentioned too much over the top vocabulary. A little editing would make this so much better.
The Legend of Decimus Croome was a fun retake on a well worn classic. I liked that this one was all about Halloween. The main character was a departure from Scrooge, and I appreciated that his issues stemmed from the loss of his wife rather than being a greedy miser. If you want an entertaining read for Halloween, and if you are a fan of A Christmas Carol this is one to try. Be warned the metaphors and vocabulary are a little over the top. Still it is one to enjoy.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
January 21, 2023
Charles Dickens most famously wrote "A Christmas Carol." Many people don't know that he also wrote other Christmas stories.
Now it's like he decided to come back to life, like the ghosts in his famous Christmas novella, and write about Halloween. I'm a huge Halloween fan, so I loved reading "The Legend of Decimus Croome: A Halloween Carol." It's one of those rare books that is fun to read, but also has an important lesson to teach.
I wish "A Halloween Carol" was required reading for all Halloween Grinches out there. Just like back in the 19th Century, people seem to be becoming less empathetic and more greedy. I think the lesson of this story is that we need to enjoy the holiday seasons and also use them as motivation to be kinder to one another.
I don't suppose we can get the Halloween grouches to read "The Legend of Decimus Croome" so how about we introduce it to students in fifth or sixth grade and make it mandatory reading. First of all, they will love the book with its witches, spiders, scarecrows and ghosts. But they'll also learn the importance of compassion and empathy toward their fellow citizens.
Now it's like he decided to come back to life, like the ghosts in his famous Christmas novella, and write about Halloween. I'm a huge Halloween fan, so I loved reading "The Legend of Decimus Croome: A Halloween Carol." It's one of those rare books that is fun to read, but also has an important lesson to teach.
I wish "A Halloween Carol" was required reading for all Halloween Grinches out there. Just like back in the 19th Century, people seem to be becoming less empathetic and more greedy. I think the lesson of this story is that we need to enjoy the holiday seasons and also use them as motivation to be kinder to one another.
I don't suppose we can get the Halloween grouches to read "The Legend of Decimus Croome" so how about we introduce it to students in fifth or sixth grade and make it mandatory reading. First of all, they will love the book with its witches, spiders, scarecrows and ghosts. But they'll also learn the importance of compassion and empathy toward their fellow citizens.
September 29, 2017
I was first attracted to this book by the jack-o-lanterns on the cover. Then when I read the back cover, I saw that it was compared to Dickens, Dr. Seuss and Edgar Allan Poe. Since these are three of my favorite authors, I figured I'd give it a try.
If possible, I liked it even better than I imagined. I love books that teach a lesson without being preachy. "A Halloween Carol" definitely falls into that category. Just like the Charles Dickens Christmas Carol namesake, this book sends a clear message. It shows people that it's best to put aside petty grievances for certain special holidays and just try to have fun.
For those who might be concerned that this might be a gruesome horror book, fear not. It does have some minor spooky encounters that are more humorous than scary. It does have ghosts and a witch in it, but don't let that scare you away. It's just an all around fun holiday book for all ages and interests.
If possible, I liked it even better than I imagined. I love books that teach a lesson without being preachy. "A Halloween Carol" definitely falls into that category. Just like the Charles Dickens Christmas Carol namesake, this book sends a clear message. It shows people that it's best to put aside petty grievances for certain special holidays and just try to have fun.
For those who might be concerned that this might be a gruesome horror book, fear not. It does have some minor spooky encounters that are more humorous than scary. It does have ghosts and a witch in it, but don't let that scare you away. It's just an all around fun holiday book for all ages and interests.
March 9, 2022
I never thought I'd say this, but this is the first revised classic I've read that is actually better than the original version; and that's saying a lot. I love A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. It is truly a classic book in every sense of the word.
I've always wondered why there aren't incredible Halloween books and movies like there are for Christmas. Now there's finally a Halloween book that meets all the criteria for a classic holiday story. It has fantastic characters, a plot that moves along nicely and and a strong theme that we could all learn from. If it was up to me, this would be required reading for all students from the 5th grade on up. It's a tiny bit spooky in some spots but is definitely appropriate for younger readers and quite enjoyable for more mature readers such as myself.
I've always wondered why there aren't incredible Halloween books and movies like there are for Christmas. Now there's finally a Halloween book that meets all the criteria for a classic holiday story. It has fantastic characters, a plot that moves along nicely and and a strong theme that we could all learn from. If it was up to me, this would be required reading for all students from the 5th grade on up. It's a tiny bit spooky in some spots but is definitely appropriate for younger readers and quite enjoyable for more mature readers such as myself.
February 19, 2023
My teacher recommended this book to me because she knew I was a fan of Charles Dickens and because she knew that I'm slightly obsessed with Halloween. I was wondering why I'd never heard of it before until I realized that it was just published this year. It will definitely become a Halloween classic just like "A Christmas Carol" is a Christmas classic.
This may be one of the best books I've read in years. I'm now recommending it to all of my friends. It's a pretty quick read, and it has a little of everything. Best of all, it's got lots of funny scenes and some great word play. I enjoy reading authors who seem to have fun with words. I can wholeheartedly recommend this book for preteens, teens & adults.
This may be one of the best books I've read in years. I'm now recommending it to all of my friends. It's a pretty quick read, and it has a little of everything. Best of all, it's got lots of funny scenes and some great word play. I enjoy reading authors who seem to have fun with words. I can wholeheartedly recommend this book for preteens, teens & adults.
December 10, 2017
It seems like a lot of people like this book, so on the day before Halloween, I decided to buy it from Amazon. I LOVED IT!!!
I was worried it was going to be some kind of hard core horror book, but it turned out to be a fun Halloween book that was a little spooky but mostly funny, well-written and a tiny bit sad in a couple spots. It has been ages since I've read "A Christmas Carol" but this reminded me of a modern-day version of that Charles Dickens book.
My only complaint... I wish there was an audible version of this book. There are so few audible Halloween books, & this would be a good read-aloud Halloween book.
I was worried it was going to be some kind of hard core horror book, but it turned out to be a fun Halloween book that was a little spooky but mostly funny, well-written and a tiny bit sad in a couple spots. It has been ages since I've read "A Christmas Carol" but this reminded me of a modern-day version of that Charles Dickens book.
My only complaint... I wish there was an audible version of this book. There are so few audible Halloween books, & this would be a good read-aloud Halloween book.
May 2, 2018
This is the first time I've ever thought that a parody, satire or knock-off novel was better than the original classic novel. Maybe it was because A Halloween Carol was about Halloween and A Christmas Carol was about Christmas or maybe it was just because "The Legend of Decimus Croome: A Halloween Carol" was more contemporary. At any rate, if you haven't had a chance to read this funny Halloween book yet, I highly recommend it. It is a tiny bit spooky, but mostly a humorous novella that does a wonderful job of capturing the true spirit of Halloween, both literally & figuratively.
October 26, 2021
I've been on a retelling kick lately and this was recommended by my friend Susy! As a retelling, it was very well done, and I loved all the parallels with the original while keeping it unique to the Halloween story. If you're at all a fan of the original Christmas Carol, I highly recommend this one! I tend to do a reread of the Christmas Carol every December, so now I may make a rereading of this story for October!
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