E.T.A. Hoffmann's whimsical novella, originally titled Nutcracker and Mouse King and the inspiration behind Tchaikovsky's ballet, now has a festive new look in this beautiful edition. When Maria is given a nutcracker by her mysterious Godfather Drosselmeier, it seems like an ordinary gift. But as the clock strikes midnight on Christmas Eve, she finds her nutcracker embroiled in a fight with a sinister Mouse King-no ordinary toy after all, but a cursed hero. Together, they embark on a fantastical journey, encountering a host of charming characters. Filled with Christmas magic and festive scenes full of presents, sugarplums, and gingerbread, this imaginative classic has been a part of annual holiday celebrations for generations.