Oxford, AL – In anticipation of the holiday season, the Oxford Public Library is gearing up for a festive gathering in its December book club event, specially curated for adults. Scheduled for December 18 at 3:00 pm, this month’s featured book is “The Christmas Dress” by Courtney Cole.
The novel revolves around Meg Julliard, a hopeful fashionista whose aspirations take an unexpected turn when she returns to her hometown of Chicago to manage her late father’s apartment building. Facing a myriad of challenges, from quirky tenants in need of urgent attention to building-related disasters, Meg’s holiday season seems destined for disaster. To complicate matters further, there’s a handsome handyman who manages to witness Meg’s embarrassing moments.
Enter Ellie Wade, a long-time resident of the building, who shares Meg’s lack of Christmas joy. In the process of downsizing for an impending move to a nursing home, Ellie discovers a dress that holds both the best and worst memories of her life. An unlikely friendship forms between Meg and Ellie, leading to the revelation of the dress’s story.
In a heartfelt gesture, Ellie gifts the beautiful dress to Meg, with the condition that she wears it to the building’s Christmas party. As if touched by holiday magic, the dress fits Meg perfectly, setting the stage for the best night of her life. However, the magic doesn’t stop there; inspired by the dress, Meg embarks on a journey to pursue a lifelong dream, aiming to save the crumbling Parkview West and restore it to its former glory. In doing so, she ensures a safe home for all the current tenants.
“The Christmas Dress” weaves a tale of holiday enchantment, unlikely friendships, and the pursuit of dreams. As the magic of the holiday season unfolds, both Meg and Ellie find their own happy endings. Join the December book club event at the Oxford Public Library for an afternoon of discussion and celebration of this heartwarming and magical story.
