Christmas tales compiled by Langley writer

Every year for more than three decades, Murrayville’s Mike Mason has celebrated Christmas by writing a story for friends.

“Now, I’ve collected 21 of these into a book that comprises a wide variety of tones, from lighthearted to serious, and genres from realistic fiction to parable to children’s fantasy,” said Mason, who is unveiling his new book, Twenty-One Candles: Stories of Christmas, this weekend.

All the stories, he said, are suitable to read aloud around the fireside on Christmas Eve, and each shed light on what Mason calls the deeper meaning of Christmas.

In the past 30-plus years, Mason has published half a dozen devotional books, three collections of short stories, and a pair of children’s fantasy novels (The Blue Umbrella and The Violet Flash).

Now, while working on a weekly blog, and writing a novel about angels, he’s releasing this new anthology of Christmas stories just in time for the holidays.

“Turning to novel writing at age 50 has meant a radical change,” Mason said.

“In many ways I’ve had to learn my craft all over again, and work through many fears and insecurities. The result, however, is deeply satisfying, and now with more fiction on the way I have a renewed sense of challenge and joy in my work.”

Given that he’s a Murrayville resident and a huge fan of the nearby Porter’s Bistro Coffee and Tea House (which served as the backdrop of his last book, The Violet Flash), he said it’s natural that site will again be the location of his newest book launch on Sunday, Nov. 23 at 7 p.m.

The launch, Mason said, will include a dessert buffet, a jazz trio, and book giveaways. Tickets for the event are $8 and available in advance at Porter’s or from Mason.

How to win:

An autographed copy of Mike Mason’s Twenty-One Candles: Stories of Christmas 

One lucky readers will win a signed copy of the Murrayville author’s newest book.

How do you win?

• Click on the live link in the online version of this story about Twenty-One Candles, and tell us why you want to win this book. You will be entered into the draw. Preference is given to Langley residents.

Postings must be received prior to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 25, and the winner will be notified by email. No staff or family of the Langley Advance or Glacier Media are eligible. You must include name and phone number.