Originally written in the early twentieth century, the story of a little girl’s love for an enchanted nutcracker has delighted generations of readers, while the Tchaikovsky ballet based on the tale has become a holiday tradition.Now young children can enjoy this beloved classic in a specially abridged version by Bob Blaisdell. Included are all the wonderful scenes and characters: Christmas Eve at the Stahlbaum house, the arrival of Godpapa Drosselmeier and the presentation of the Nutcracker, the fierce battle between the Nutcracker and the seven-headed Mouse King, the adventures in Christmas Wood, Toyland, Marzipan Castle, and much more.Printed in large easy-to-read type and enhanced with 30 new illustrations by Thea Kliros, this Christmas favourite will entertain young readers the year round.