"Miracle on 34th Street" by Valentine Davies

About the Book/Movie:

For a little girl named Susan Walker, Christmas could be any other day. She doesn't believe in Santa Claus or magic or miracles of any kind. But when she meets Kris Kringle and tells him what Christmas gifts she most wishes for, Susan finds herself hoping that maybe, just maybe, he is the real thing. Based on the original holiday classic, Miracle on 34th Street is a timeless, heartwarming children's book about generosity, imagination, and the spirit of Christmas... if you just believe.

Book vs. Movie:

1947 Classic Film vs. the Book:

Kris Kringle's Appearance:

• Book: Descriptions of Kris Kringle are provided in the narrative, but readers form their own mental images.
• 1947 Film: Edmund Gwenn portrays Kris Kringle, and his appearance becomes iconic in defining the character's image.

Character Emphasis:

• Book: The narrative may provide more depth to various characters, allowing readers to explore their thoughts and emotions.
• 1947 Film: The film emphasizes certain characters over others, adjusting the narrative for cinematic appeal.

Romantic Subplot:

• Book: The book includes a romantic subplot involving Fred Gailey and Doris Walker, but it may be more subtly developed.
• 1947 Film: The romantic subplot is more prominent and provides a central theme in the film, especially with the portrayal of the characters by Maureen O'Hara and John Payne.

Courtroom Drama:

• Book: The courtroom scenes are depicted with details in the narrative.
• 1947 Film: The courtroom scenes are dramatized for the screen, with additional elements to enhance the suspense and emotional impact.

Character Relationships:

• Book: Relationships may be explored in more nuanced ways.
• 1947 Film: The film may simplify certain character dynamics to fit the runtime and convey emotions more directly.

1994 Remake vs. the Book:

Time Period and Setting:

• Book: Originally set in the post-World War II era, capturing a specific historical context.
• 1994 Film: The remake updates the story to contemporary times, altering the cultural and historical backdrop.

Character Changes:

• Book: Characters may have slightly different characteristics and backstories.
• 1994 Film: The film may make adjustments to characters to suit the modern context and storytelling choices.

Depiction of Santa's Workshop:

• Book: Descriptions of Santa's Workshop are left to the reader's imagination.
• 1994 Film: Visual effects and modern filmmaking techniques are used to create a vivid depiction of Santa's Workshop.

Technology and Communication:

• Book: Reflects the technology and communication methods of its time.
• 1994 Film: Incorporates modern technology, such as computers and telecommunication, into the storyline.

Doris Walker's Character:

• Book: Doris's character may be portrayed differently in terms of her personality and motivations.
• 1994 Film: Elizabeth Perkins brings her interpretation to the character, influencing how Doris is perceived.

Representation of Susan's Character:

• Book: Susan's character may be described with certain characteristics and traits.
• 1994 Film: Mara Wilson's portrayal of Susan influences the character's visual representation and personality.

Cultural References:

• Book: Reflects the cultural references of the time it was written.
• 1994 Film: Updates cultural references to make the story more relatable to a contemporary audience.