The Grinch started out as a book, How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuess.  Written in rhymed verse with illustrations by the author, the book was published in 1957.  In 1966, Chuck Jones turned the story into an animated film, with narration from Boris Karloff.  That film has become a beloved classic and it is featured many times on television during the Christmas season.

The story goes that the Grinch, who’s heart was two sizes too small, lived in the cave way up high on Mt. Crumpit with his only companion being a dog named Max.  Every Christmas the Whos down in Whoville would celebrate the holiday by singing together around the great tree in the center of town, banging on their toys loudly, creating a ton of noise, and eating a grand feast.  The Grinch hates all of the noise and general happiness so he devises a plan to go down into whoville while everyone is asleep and steal Christmas.

He dresses up as Santa Claus and sneaks into Whoville late on Christmas Eve.  He takes the trees, the toys, the presents, even the feast.  He takes them up to the mountain only for the Whos to come out and sing, still celebrating and happy its Christmas.  His heart grows three sizes and fills with joy and love at the sight of it.  He takes all he’s stolen back down to the Whos and even celebrates with them.

Since its animated incarnation, Dr.

Seuess’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! has spawned a stage musical, a live-action movie (starring Jim Carrey), and two spin off books named Halloween is Grinch Night and The Grinch Grinches the Cat in the Hat.

Dr. Seuess’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! is one of those Christmas movies I could watch year round.  Its anti-consumerist message rings true with me along with its message of getting down to the heart of the holiday.  I can’t wait to grab myself a hot chocolate, curl up on the couch, and catch up with my old friend The Grinch.