National Network for Equitable Library Service

Unwrap a treasure trove of stories and photos behind a Christmas tradition

A Christmas Story has become a perennial holiday favourite since its release in 1983. While millions watch the movie every year on television, few know the story behind the film’s production, release, and unlikely ascent. Ralphie Parker’s quest for “a Red Ryder carbine action, two hundred shot Range Model air rifle with a compass in the stock and this thing which tells time” didn’t begin or end with the release of Bob Clark’s sleeper hit. Adapted from Jean Shepherd’s radio broadcasts and short stories, A Christmas Story has inspired a mountain of merchandise, sequels, a stage adaptation, and a big–budget Broadway musical. There’s also a tourist attraction in Cleveland and annual conventions. Not bad for a movie that was only a modest hit during its original theatrical run. Now, in time for its 30th anniversary, the story of the making of the film — and what happened afterwards — is being told for the first time. Complete with rare and previously unreleased photographs and drawing on original interviews with cast and crew, A Christmas Story: Behind the Scenes of a Holiday Classic is sure to make you glad you didn’t shoot your eye out!