This was truly an experience like curling up in a warm blanket of familiarity. It was as if I was indulging in the rich essence of a delicious cup of hot chocolate.

Reading the original work for the upcoming movie, "The Homecoming", and the series that will be spun from it, was an absolute delight.

The story was concise yet captivating, making it a perfect Christmas read. It had all the elements to get one into the festive spirit and keep them engaged from start to finish.

I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it and look forward to seeing how the movie and series will bring this wonderful story to life on the big and small screens.

It's safe to say that this is a must-read for anyone who loves a heartwarming Christmas tale.

Great Christmas Story

This is an absolutely wonderful short story that is set during the challenging times of the Depression in the beautiful mountains of Virginia. The story is a gem that takes the reader on a journey through a bygone era, filled with historical details that bring that time to life. It not only showcases the hardships faced by the people during the Depression but also beautifully portrays the love and unity within a family. The author has done an excellent job of creating a vivid and engaging narrative that keeps the reader hooked from start to finish. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good story that combines history and the power of family love. It is a heartwarming and inspiring read that will leave you with a sense of hope and appreciation for the simple things in life.

Good night everyone!

And Merry Christmas!

What an amazing book this is! I can clearly observe how this charming little story served as the foundation for The Waltons show.

I have a deep affection for that show, and now I find myself equally in love with this story.

The details in the book are so vivid that they bring the world of The Waltons to life.

It's as if I can step right into the lives of the characters and experience their joys and sorrows.

The author has done a remarkable job of creating a heartwarming and engaging narrative.

This story truly captures the essence of family, love, and the simple pleasures of life.

I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good read and has a soft spot for classic TV shows like The Waltons.

It's a wonderful addition to any bookshelf and a great way to spend a cozy Christmas evening.

Rediscovered old friends, sort of…


I truly relished reading The Homecoming. I had this impression that I was well-acquainted with the story, yet the book turned out to be somewhat distinct from the TV movie. The characters bear different names, and there are several disparities in the details. However, this beloved work manages to infuse you with the Christmas spirit. It's fascinating how a familiar tale can take on a new guise in a different medium. The book offers a fresh perspective, allowing you to see the story from a different angle. Despite the differences, the essence of the Christmas charm remains intact. It makes you feel the warmth and joy that this holiday season is known for. Whether you prefer the book or the TV movie, The Homecoming is a wonderful addition to the Christmas literary and visual landscape. It's a story that can be enjoyed again and again, bringing back those cherished memories of the holiday season.

2016: The last 5-6 pages or so were really tough going. It was as if some kind of salty discharge from my eyes just wouldn't stop, constantly clouding my vision.

2024: It got me again, and this has been the case every year since I first read it. It's truly amazing how such a small book can pack such a powerful wallop. It manages to capture so incredibly well all the different aspects of what Christmas is and, more importantly, what it should be. It's a testament to the author's skill and the profound impact this little book has had on me over the years. Each time I pick it up, I'm reminded of the true spirit of Christmas and all the emotions and values that come with it.

It's a book that I'll continue to cherish and revisit year after year, always finding something new and meaningful within its pages.

This book began for me in a manner similar to one of John-Boy's stories. It was filled with promise, yet a bit stiff and overly self-aware.

All of us older individuals recall The Waltons, and I found myself comparing the descriptions of the family members to their TV counterparts, attempting to match them up. That was until I realized there was an additional child in this book!

The story unfolds gradually, considering the brevity of the text, but it is truly worth the time invested.

The old ladies who sell their papa's recipe, the concern over a father who may or may not arrive in time for Christmas, the little girl who weeps over a cracked doll - all these small moments accumulate to form a sweet, exquisitely drawn tale.

I relished the insight into Clay-Boy's mind, the description of a nighttime sleigh ride, and a Christmas Eve visit to a black church where he realizes, with great sadness, that there are entire societies within his own that he is unfamiliar with and may never become a part of.

The ending is predictable, much like the one in A Christmas Carol, yet I read that one every year! I believe I will establish a new tradition of reading this book as well.

Love The Homecoming

I have an intense love for the Homecoming movie and the Waltons. This show holds a special place in my heart, and I truly miss it. It is my sincere wish that we could once again have more shows with meaningful values on television. In this day and age, such shows are dearly needed. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story, and I am determined to read the other Waltons book as well. Reading the Homecoming has brought back an abundance of great memories of watching this wonderful show with my family during my childhood. The characters were so endearing, the location was charming, and the plot lines were engaging. I will be actively looking for the Waltons on TV again. I would like to express my gratitude to Earl Hamner for sharing his story with us through his books and the TV series. His work has had a profound impact on me and many others.

Oh my.

I just loved reading this!

I grew up watching The Waltons and vividly remember watching the original TV movie of “The Homecoming” a very long time ago.

It has always held a special place in my heart.

After much searching, I finally found the DVD of it.

It is the first and my absolute favorite Christmas movie that I watch religiously each year.

This book that I just read has further enhanced the story.

Although there are only a few slight differences between the movie and the book, it is still so full of heart.

The details and the emotions portrayed in the book add an extra layer of depth to the already beloved story.

It makes me appreciate the characters and their relationships even more.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves The Waltons or heartwarming Christmas stories.

It is truly a wonderful addition to the franchise.

I firmly believe that this served as the foundation for The Waltons TV Show.

The Waltons was a beloved and iconic television series that captured the hearts of many viewers. It was set in a small town during a specific era and depicted the lives and relationships of the Walton family.

The show explored themes such as family values, love, loyalty, and the challenges and joys of everyday life. It展现了 the simple yet profound moments that make up a family's history.

Based on this belief, it can be assumed that the events or circumstances that I am referring to provided the inspiration and framework for the creation of The Waltons TV Show.

Perhaps it was the real-life experiences of the show's creators or the stories and traditions passed down through generations that influenced the development of the series.

In any case, The Waltons TV Show remains a classic example of how a well-told story can touch the lives of people and become a part of their cultural heritage.

It continues to be remembered and cherished by fans around the world, and its impact can still be felt today.

Loved this!

There are indeed some aspects that are just like the movie, which can bring a sense of familiarity and excitement to the viewers. However, there are also some rather big differences that make this work unique.

These differences add an extra layer of depth and complexity to the story, allowing the audience to explore new perspectives and interpretations.

For all Walton's fans, this is highly recommended. It offers a fresh take on the beloved characters and themes, while still maintaining the essence and charm that made the original so popular.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or just someone who enjoys a good story, this is definitely worth checking out. You'll be sure to be entertained and engaged from start to finish.

An annual reading tradition for me that I am happy to share again with readers.

No holiday season is complete in my household without remembering the story of The Homecoming. On Christmas Eve, Clay Spencer has not returned home from his forty-mile trek for the holidays, and the entire Spencer household is on edge. Olivia longs for her husband's safe return, but she can't put life on hold as she waits. With a brood of eight, she turns to Clay-Boy, her eldest, to take on the role of'man of the house' at the tender age of fifteen.

As the story unfolds, Clay-Boy not only plays the role of a man but also has to embark on a journey to find his father and bring him home for the holidays. As Christmas Eve turns to night, the Spencers engage in their own family traditions, meager as they may be during the Depression. In 1933, it's not Santa they wait for this Christmas, but Clay and his safe homecoming to spend time with those he loves most. Sure to become an annual tradition for holiday reading lists, Hamner Jr. entertains and effectively depicts the era.

I grew up watching The Homecoming as part of the annual Christmas preparation. The book was there, but I never took the time to read it until a few years ago. When I did, I realized how special this story is, and it's a tradition I will continue. I don't want to get on a soapbox, but the holidays are about love and support, not material things. Hamner Jr. makes that clear throughout this novel, as well as in Spencer's Mountain. Do take some time to read them and enjoy all they have to offer.

Kudos, Mr. Hamner Jr., for instilling in me the annual reminder that love trumps all. Merriest of Christmases to all!

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I have always had a deep love for The Waltons television show. It has been a source of comfort and entertainment for me over the years. Similarly, Spencer's Mountain is one of my all-time favorite movies. The heartwarming story and the charming characters have left a lasting impression on me.

So, when I happened to spot this book on the shelf at the library, I simply couldn't resist the urge to read it. I was excited to see if the written version could capture the same essence and magic as the TV show and the movie.

And I'm happy to say that the story did not disappoint. It was a wonderful and engaging read, especially during the holiday season. It provided a quick escape into a world of family, love, and simple pleasures.

If you're already familiar with the TV show or the movie, you won't find any major surprises in the book. However, it's still a great way to relive the story and gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their relationships. Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good family drama.