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Cover of What Christmas Did for Jerusha Grumble

What Christmas Did for Jerusha Grumble

Written by John D. MacDonald

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Christmas plays

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About this book

"What Christmas Did for Jerusha Grumble" by John D. MacDonald is a charming play for five girls written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around the transformative power of Christmas and the theme of redemption through kindness and friendship. It explores the story of Jerusha Grumble, a seemingly cranky old maid, as she experiences a change in her attitude and approach to life during the Christmas season. In the play, a group of young girls decides to reach out to Jerusha Grumble, whom they perceive as unapproachable and unpleasant due to her past. Inspired by a recent encounter in which Jerusha kindly greeted one of the girls, they invite her to participate in Christmas activities, hoping to ignite a spark of joy in her life. Through their warm interactions, the girls discover Jerusha's desire to change and find happiness despite her past disappointments. Moreover, they help her prepare a special Christmas tree made from a broom, showcasing her hidden kindness and the depth of her emotions. By the end of the play, Jerusha experiences a happiness she thought lost, demonstrating that it’s never too late for redemption and joy, especially during the spirit of Christmas.

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Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in What Christmas Did for Jerusha Grumble, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • beginner
  • uplifting
  • heartwarming
  • charming

John D. MacDonald's early 20th-century play, "What Christmas Did for Jerusha Grumble," tells the heartwarming story of an initially cranky old maid whose life is transformed by the spirit of Christmas and the genuine kindness of a group of young girls. Perceiving Jerusha as unapproachable, the girls are inspired by a small act of kindness to invite her into their festive activities, hoping to bring joy into her isolated existence. Through their persistent warmth and friendship, they help Jerusha rediscover happiness and overcome past disappointments, culminating in a poignant scene where they craft a unique Christmas tree from a broom. The play beautifully illustrates that redemption and joy are always within reach, especially through the power of human connection during the holiday season.

“Even the coldest heart can be warmed by a flicker of kindness.”

Key themes

Redemption and Transformation
This is the central theme, exploring the idea that individuals, regardless of their past or current demeanor, can experience profound change and find happiness. Jerusha's journey from a 'grumble' to a joyful person highlights the potential for spiritual and emotional renewal, particularly when inspired by external kindness and the holiday spirit.
The Power of Kindness and Compassion
The play vividly demonstrates how small acts of kindness and persistent compassion can break down barriers and initiate significant positive change. The girls' proactive approach in reaching out to Jerusha, despite her perceived unpleasantness, underscores the profound impact of empathy and unconditional care.
The Spirit of Christmas
Christmas is not just a setting but an active force in the play, embodying the themes of generosity, goodwill, hope, and renewal. It serves as the primary catalyst that inspires the girls' actions and creates an environment conducive to Jerusha's transformation, demonstrating its power to inspire profound human connection and change.

Worth discussing

How does a single act of kindness, like Jerusha's greeting, initiate such a profound chain of events?

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