"Why the Chimes Rang" by is a collection of highly imaginative modern fairy tales which inspire children to right behavior. Written by Raymond Macdonald Alden, this classic includes two Christmas stories--"Why the Chimes Rang" and "In the Great Walled Country", plus a variety of other stories (such as "The Knights of the Silver Shield) suitable for different seasons of the year. The title story, "Why the Chimes Rang," is a truly endearing narration about two young boys who dream of going to a special Christmas service at a somewhat distant church. It will take the boys all afternoon to walk to the church. Along the way they come upon a woman who has fallen in the snow and is in desperate need of help. The older brother stays with her and sends "little brother" on to the church for the Christmas service. Afterwards, he is to return with help. The Christmas chimes in this church have not been heard for many years, but they rang that night-all because of two young boys, who in all of their innocence truly understood about giving and Christmas. The favorite Christmas story of many, "Why the Chimes Rang" captures the true meaning of Christmas in a simple yet rich and beautiful way. If you could have but one book (outside of the Bible) for Christmas, this should be the one!