Gorgeous prose that purposely invokes the masterful writing of Dickens. Oh, what a treat it is to be immersed in such literary splendor! This story, be warned, is not even close to a Christmas story despite the deceiving title. It is, rather, a deeply thoughtful and nostalgic meditation on grief. It delves into the recesses of the human heart, exploring the complex emotions that come with loss.

It is also a stunning, and honest, ode to the often contradictory experience of living in New York City. Hijuelos manages to capture the essence of Hamilton Heights and Brooklyn with such vividness that one can almost smell the city streets and feel the hustle and bustle. He weaves a tale that is both sad and beautiful, steeped in the melancholy of life's disappointments yet never feeling overwhelmingly depressive.

I am already looking forward to rereading this, eager to uncover new layers of meaning and to once again be transported by Hijuelos' masterful storytelling. And I cannot wait to pick up his other novels, knowing that they will surely be just as captivating and profound.

I greatly admire the remarkable ability of those exceptionally gifted authors. They possess the talent to take the ordinary lives of people and transform them into captivating stories that are both easily relatable and inspiring.

Such stories serve as a powerful reminder to all of us that every individual has a unique story to tell. In these narratives, we can all identify as the heroes and villains, the saints and sinners. However, the reality is that we often don't share our stories.

This is because none of us truly believes that our lives are interesting or worthy of exploration. It is authors like this one who prove us wrong.

This book centers around a simple man named Edward Ives. He was abandoned by his parents, whom he doesn't remember, for reasons he will never know. He is a boy without a family or a known history, a foundling left to the mercy of others.

Fortunately, he is rescued from a life of unknown hardships when he is adopted by a kind widower and becomes part of a family of other adopted children. His adopted father is loving and nurturing, and Edward discovers a passion and talent for drawing, art, hard work, and diligence.

These qualities serve him well, and he manages to build a fulfilling life for himself. He is also deeply devout in his Catholic faith.

In post-WWII NYC, he lives, works, and studies until he meets an Irish girl in one of his art classes. They fall in love, get married, and raise a small family in Upper Manhattan, much to the disapproval of the girl's Irish cop father and brothers.

Their life is comfortable, although far from being filled with the luxuries of life. Their eldest son decides to become a priest and is on the verge of entering the seminary when he is tragically murdered in a senseless street incident.

This is the point where the book's purpose truly begins, as Edward's life spirals out of control. His faith is severely challenged, and he desperately tries to make sense of what has happened and why.

He is also faced with the responsibility of supporting his wife and daughter through their grief, as well as his own.

The question of why the author has chosen to juxtapose Christmas with the story of Edward's struggle is an intriguing one that I will leave for each reader to contemplate on their own.

If you are seeking a book to get you into the Christmas spirit, this might not be the one you're looking for. Then again, perhaps it is. It is a moving story that will prompt you to think about many different aspects of life.

A truly heartbreaking story unfolds before us, centering around a man who, despite the catastrophic events that have completely derailed his life, persists unwaveringly through his faith. This remarkable book is not only a captivating narrative but also a profound love story dedicated to New York and the rich and vibrant culture of NYC. It has a certain charm and depth that makes it a must-read. In fact, it's something that I will eagerly want to re-read around Christmas time. For during this season, it serves as a powerful and timely reminder for us all to embrace the one and only shot at life that we're so preciousy given and not waste or squander it. It encourages us to find strength in the face of adversity and to cherish every moment of our lives.

A moving book that delves deep into the human spiritual experiences, encompassing the mystical as well. This remarkable piece of literature takes readers on a profound journey through the recesses of the human soul. It explores the various aspects of our spiritual lives, from the ordinary to the extraordinary. The author skillfully weaves together stories and insights that touch on the mysteries of life and the deeper meaning that lies within. Through vivid descriptions and thought-provoking narratives, the book invites readers to reflect on their own spiritual experiences and expand their understanding of the world around them. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to explore the spiritual realm and gain a greater appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the human spirit.

A review I posted on Amazon in 2000:

"It's a diamond that cuts into the great spiritual wasteland. Oscar Hijuelos truly nails the virtues of moral truths and the redemption of love, forgiveness, and compassion. These are those simple selfless qualities that our world often considers trite. He accomplishes this through an amazing story of a quiet, humble man whose deep faith is truly inspiring: Ed Ives. This book is without a doubt among my top favorites ever. I found myself laughing out loud at times and crying (in fact, I was blubbering while reading certain parts to my wife).

In sum, it's one of my all-time favorite novels. No, really. It has a profound impact on the reader, making them reflect on the importance of these virtues in our lives. The story is engaging and the characters are well-developed, drawing the reader in and making them feel as if they are a part of the story. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally fulfilling read."

Mr. Ives' Christmas by Oscar Hijuelos is a deeply poignant and multi-faceted story. At its core, it explores the profound grief of a man, Mr. Ives, who has lost his 19-year-old son to murder. This event shatters his world and becomes the central focus of the narrative. However, the novel is not just about grief; it delves into other aspects of Mr. Ives' life as well.

The book is also a remarkable portrayal of New York City in the mid-20th century. Hijuelos vividly brings the city to life, painting a detailed and accurate picture that is both evocative and nostalgic. It's a city that the author knew well, and his descriptions capture its essence in a way that few writers can. For those who grew up in that era, the book will undoubtedly bring back a flood of memories.

The story is filled with sadness, as Robert's death looms large over everything. It's a pain that Mr. Ives cannot escape, and it colors every aspect of his life. Alongside this grief, there is also a story of faith, but it does not dull the sharpness of the pain. At times, the book can be difficult to read, as the atmosphere is heavy with the numbness that comes with great loss. However, there are also moments of hope and redemption, as well as sweet moments of faith and love that offer a glimmer of light in the darkness.

Overall, Mr. Ives' Christmas is a book that is well worth reading. It's a powerful and moving exploration of grief, faith, and the human spirit, set against the backdrop of a vibrant and ever-changing city. It's a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.

Oscar Hijuelos' third novel initially started at a somewhat slow pace. However, in a manner that I am still trying to fully understand, it gradually took hold of me with an increasingly tight grip, leaving me gasping for relief by the end. The writing has a deceptive quality. It appeared almost simple and pedestrian at first, until I found myself deeply immersed in the hearts and minds of Mr Ives and his wife.

The couple, Mr Ives of Cuban descent and Mrs Ives of Irish heritage, are bound together by passion, intellect, and faith. They are content to live in a multicultural neighborhood in Upper Manhattan that has seen better days. They are raising two children and are deeply involved in their church and community when disaster strikes. Their son, Robert, who is just days away from entering the seminary, is killed during a senseless act of violence by a neighborhood punk. Every good thing in their lives, especially their love for each other and their faith in God, is put to the test.

The impact of a child's death on a marriage and family has been a common theme in fiction. Hijuelos manages to make the story feel fresh again, mainly because of his two main characters. In an almost unassuming third-person voice, he brings the reader so close to Mr Ives and his lovely, vibrant wife Annie. He delves so intricately into the minute personal differences between them as they grapple with grief, religious belief, and life itself. As a result, the novel tested my own faith in love, in mankind, in a Supreme Being, and in life itself.

I'm not sure if the amount of emotional turmoil in Mr Ives' Christmas is to every reader's taste. I initially thought I wouldn't be able to tolerate the overtly Catholic views. But then again, I have been drawn in by Graham Greene, especially The Power and the Glory. As I watched the movie version of The Life of Pi on Christmas Eve, I remembered that part of my love for that book was Pi's seriously held and seriously tested faith in the three religions he practiced simultaneously.

Oscar Hijuelos did not turn me back to the Christian faith of my youth. Instead, he performed another kind of miracle and renewed my faith in living by one's values and in the divine nature of human love.

I must admit that I did not love this story as much as I had initially hoped.

Perhaps it was due to my own current state of mind. Maybe I was preoccupied with other thoughts and concerns, which prevented me from fully immersing myself in the narrative.

It's also possible that the story didn't quite resonate with me on a personal level. The characters or the plot might not have been as engaging or relatable as I had expected.

However, I don't want to completely dismiss the story. There could be aspects of it that I simply overlooked or didn't fully appreciate at first glance.

Maybe upon a second reading, or when I'm in a different frame of mind, I will discover the hidden gems and beauty within this story that I missed the first time around.

Only time will tell if my perception of this story will change.

This simple, yet beautifully written book delves tenderly into the realm of ethics.

The eponymous hero has endured the unfathomable loss of his dear seventeen-year-old son to murder. Left to grapple with this tragedy, he and his wife must now test the very strength of their Christian values as he comes face to face with his son's murderer.

The enormity of this loss places an immense strain on the Ives' marriage. Edward finds himself caught in a vortex, struggling not only with the overwhelming weight of his terrible sorrow but also with the gradual deterioration of his once-loving relationship.

This story is told in a quiet and understated manner, yet the book manages to pack an emotional wallop that leaves a lasting impact. It would be an excellent choice for a book club, as the moral issues that lie at its core are certain to offer numerous occasions for lively and thought-provoking discussion.

Readers will find themselves drawn into the complex web of emotions and moral dilemmas presented in this powerful and poignant narrative.

It was around Christmas when a young foundling named Edward was given a home, a family, and a last name. His adoptive father, Mr. Ives Senior (a foundling himself), managed a printing plant and gave his new son two brothers and a sister. He provided him with a good amount of encouragement and, most importantly, taught him how to pray.

While growing up, Edward basked in the cultural richness that surrounded him in New York during the 20s and 30s. By the 1950s, his creativity landed him in a Madison Avenue ad agency where he worked, thrived, and would eventually retire. His simple and humble life involved marriage, children, delight, and despair. Through it all, Edward came to realize that the life he imagined for himself was very different from the life that he’d been given.

Oscar Hijuelos delivers a beautifully written novel that is vividly detailed and rich in historical insights and context. However, I found myself disappointed and wishing that I had enjoyed this book more. First, it was difficult to connect with the main character. Hijuelos often interjects various characters’ backstories throughout the book. This was helpful in creating history and perspective, but the constant interruptions ultimately sacrificed intimacy for insight and greatly hampered the flow of the story.

It was extremely challenging to stay immersed in the story. Rather than focus on a central theme, this book read more like a series of random thoughts, insights, and memories. Hijuelos simply went off on one tangent too many and the book becomes a regrettable product of information overload.

This book mainly centers on New York and spans over several decades. In that respect, it was interesting to see a city in constant transformation and evolution during the cultural, political, and social movements of the 50s, 60s, and 70s. I also appreciated the spiritual issues that Hijuelos covered without being overtly religious. We see Edward’s struggle to reconcile his religion with his faith and the eventual effect it has on his physical and mental health.

But through life’s tragedies and triumphs, Mr. Edward Ives remains a sentimental, kind, and honorable man, father, husband, and friend. He realizes that Christmas isn’t his story, but it’s His story—the babe born in a manger who would die on a cross. Although Edward often finds himself grappling with a life full of uncertainty and anguish, through his faith and belief, Mr. Ives finds peace in knowing that his afterlife is secured and in good hands. Merry Christmas, Mr. Ives.

The writing is truly impeccable, and I did indeed enjoy the novel. However, I am unable to assign it a higher rating. Throughout the entire story, I felt that a crucial thread of connection was lacking.

To me, it seemed as if I was perusing a series of vignettes that were merely connected by the same plot line, with nothing else cohesive binding them together. The characters were well-rounded and realistic, which was a definite plus.

He is an incredibly descriptive writer, and I felt as if I got to know New York in a different light, as a city with its own story to tell through the decades. His writing structure also has a lyrical flow. There are numerous good aspects of the novel, but I simply felt that some substantial emotional element was amiss. So much of the novel was dedicated to spirituality, yet the end had no grand conclusion in that regard. I was left hanging. Even if life is often like that and rarely has closure, this novel delved into something far deeper, and I was disappointed that it sort of faded out at the end instead of providing us with the reveal of Mr. Ives.

I adored how the novel opened on the premise and exploration of Mr. Ives as a foundling, straddling cultures, seeking his identity through both the unknown and the known, attempting to discover if he was the sum of all he loves, all that he has created artistically, his wife, his children, and so on. And yet, the novel never continued with that storyline. I desired more from it. Especially when he had children, became a father, experienced the loss of a child, went through grieving, and lost his wife to a certain extent due to that grief... many circumstances that would have given him ample ammunition to start asking those questions again - who am I.

I guess ultimately that was what prevented the novel from reaching a higher level for me. It ended up being about something other than what I was led to believe it would be about in the early chapters.

Glorious life ending. There must have been a moment when his son had gasped for air, the last time, as Jesus must have. But as Jesus had risen, he wanted his son to rise up, organs and spirit and mind intact, and everything to be as it had been not so long ago.

This story was such a welcome for my spirit and frame of mind. Mr. Ives was such a wonderful person I wish I knew in real life. He was good to a fault, believing in Jesus as his Savior and his faith never wavered until that dreadful night his son gets brutally murdered. We see Edward Ives' struggles as a man of certainty transform into a man possessed with doubts and indecision.

I grew up Catholic (transitioning now to Serbian Orthodoxy). Baptized and communion, prayers and all. I've always been a believer and a prayer-er, even when kids started going atheist in high school, I kept believing and looking for signs that I was being led and helped along the way especially when I was making awful teenage decisions. Just knowing someone loves me this much (whatever you believe spiritually or don't) and wants the best for me, I couldn't question that higher love I had to answer to. I can't be an asshole in life and think that's okay. I need to be better than yesterday and have guilt over my asshole-ness or what is the point of anything? Organized religion is a little sketchy for me as I feel "men" ruin good things but religion itself should be comforting and full of community support... One hopes....

Anyway, I say all this above because the story comforted me and has continued to renew the faith I have. Mr. Ives and his transition from his best life to his worst fears come true and his unwavering dedication to God and His son was beautiful to read and envision. I loved the people he knew as well. Everyone played a big part in Ives' life. Even when his heart was a stone and forgiveness seemed far away, there was always support for him. His wife was patient, his best friend Ramirez was hostile but loyal, his daughter in the background, his son's killer waiting in the wings to be forgiven. Mr. Ives is a true Christian in the sense of what it really means to be a real life walking Christian. Not someone that says it out loud and acts like the total opposite but actually lives and breathes the sense of it and makes others take notice and hopefully want to change themselves.

Oscar Hijuelos really thought about the man he created in these pages. Christmas was always a significant event for Ives and that is why this is a great book full of sadness and happiness for that time of year, but really for any time. I have taken so long to get here on Goodreads to review but I am so glad this poignant story has stayed with me. I can't seem to get the messages out of my head, in a good way. It makes me want to be a better person with a more forgiving heart.... But I am continuing to work on myself on a day to day basis... LOL..I do own a mirror people...

I truly 100% recommend. This is a keeper, even for the non-religious part of you. Hijuelos is a fantastic writer. His ability to create such complex and relatable characters is remarkable. The story not only touches on themes of faith, forgiveness, and loss but also on the human condition and our struggle to find meaning and purpose in life. It makes you think about your own beliefs and values and how you would handle similar situations. Whether you are religious or not, this book has something to offer. It is a beautiful and moving story that will stay with you long after you have finished reading it.