Truman Capote. First edition. Possible later printing. NAP. New York: Random House, 1956. Houses in a slipcase, in Very Good+ condition. Hardcover is in Near Fine condition. No writing or markings found in the book, 45 pp. Designed by the great George Salter.
A Christmas Memory is Capote’s deeply nostalgic recollection of a rural Alabama Christmas in the 1930's, centered around his friendship with an elderly cousin, Sook. The story captures their annual ritual of baking fruitcakes for friends and strangers alike, their bond, and the quiet melancholy of childhood innocence fading away.
It’s one of Capote’s most emotionally resonant works — simple, lyrical, and autobiographical. The story was originally published in Mademoiselle magazine in December 1956 and then issued as a standalone book by Random House the same year.
It’s one of the most beloved American Christmas stories of the 20th century and continues to be reissued every holiday season.
Notable Facts
The story was later included in Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Other Voices, Other Rooms collections.
Adapted for television multiple times, including a 1966 Peabody Award–winning CBS version narrated by Capote himself.
It’s part of Capote’s “trilogy of memories,” along with The Thanksgiving Visitor (1967) and One Christmas (1982).
