How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

On Mount Crumpit, a green creature with fur as prickly as holly and a heart two sizes too small watches the town of Whoville from above. The Grinch hates the noise, the bells, and the smell of roast beast that drifts up from the village below. When Christmas Eve arrives, he decides to ruin the holiday for everyone by stealing every single decoration, toy, and food item in sight. Dressed in a Santa suit made of red flannel, he straps his dog Max to a sleigh and hauls the loot back to his cave.

The plan seems perfect until the Grinch returns home to find the Whos singing joyfully despite having lost everything. He realizes that the spirit of Christmas exists inside people rather than in packages or presents. His heart instantly grows three sizes, and he rushes down the mountain to return all the stolen goods before joining the feast.

Dr. Seuss published this rhymed tale on November 24, 1957, through Random House. The book appeared simultaneously in the December issue of Redbook magazine and has remained in print ever since. Critics often note how the word "Grinch" entered the English language as a synonym for a person who spoils fun or refuses to celebrate holidays. [edit]