At the end of November, winter claimed its rights, icing up the waters of the Moscow region and covering the land with a snow blanket. The darkened asphalt was covered with an ice batter, adding problems to drivers who get a piece of bread by dangerous professional work. The dank overcast days were replaced by frost and the Sun, warming the soul with a reminder of spring. Artificial fir trees were installed in the squares and they began to decorate, trying to add color to the dull black and white tones. The city became more colorful, but cheerful New Year's illuminations were associated only with dirty ice blocks lying on the roadsides.
- In winter, it is undoubtedly beautiful, - Andrey thought, hiding in a warm blanket. But it is good to watch this beauty from the TV screen and sing the delights of the Russian winter while basking on the sunny beaches of the Mediterranean, as most Russian writers did. When a person is warm, winter causes pleasant nostalgia for severe frosts, icy well water and a trio of horses rushing through a fairy-tale forest in a charming snowy whirlwind.
From pleasant thoughts, he had a desire to go outside and breathe in the aroma of a frosty morning. Approaching the window, he looked at the unpresentable landscape of the frozen city. In the next moment, apathy and despondency returned to him, convincing him of the failure of the undertaking. Putting on a terry bathrobe, he went into the kitchen, made coffee and lit a cigarette, turning on the hood over the stove. The pleasant aroma of the drink woke the cat, who came to the kitchen and began to rub against his legs, begging for a legitimate breakfast. After feeding the beast and finishing his cigarette, Andrey took half-finished coffee, returned to the room and settled down on the sofa, turning on the TV. The furry friend perched at his side and purred loudly, looking into his eyes faithfully.
- It's good that I'm on vacation! - Andrey thought, listening to the morning news with half an ear. No need to rush to work, you can lie in bed all day or buy beer and crackers and spend time in a drunken stupor, talking with a cat and a computer. Or you can take brandy and go for a walk, slowly savoring a fragrant drink and contemplating nature, which has fallen into a freezer on a planetary scale. There are many options, and most importantly, you don’t need to load your brain with disgusting work, having the opportunity to enjoy the freedom that is given only once a year. Three weeks of vacation ahead, what happiness!
He lay down on the couch and hugged the cat. The grateful friend purred even louder, lulling the owner with measured crackling snores. Andrei remembered his childhood and the old black cat, who prefers to sleep on his pillow. Under the measured purring, his eyelids grew heavy, and he fell into a dream, no longer hearing the monotonous song of his furry friend. He dreamed of his father, whose death left a deep wound in his soul. In a dream, they went fishing, but instead of a battered Zaporozhets, my father drove a luxurious convertible. They were moving along the forest road, having a leisurely conversation, and summer was fragrant all around, birds were singing and motley butterflies were circling. The fabulous dream did not last long. Waking up, Andrei once again felt nostalgic for a happy life left in the past. The youth has passed, the mature age has come, and the time of weddings has been replaced by the period of funerals. My father died, many friends, girlfriends and relatives left. Having buried his loved ones, he realized that it was possible to live without them, but in a different way, bleak and with pain in his soul. After the death of his father, his mother's health deteriorated, but she did not give up, continuing to exist in a cynical world that unceremoniously takes away the most precious thing.
- Beautiful, bright dream! Andrey thought, lighting a cigarette. I don't even want to go back to reality. What a pity that it is impossible to get into that happy time. As the years go by, life only gets worse.
Finishing his cigarette, he took the money, put on his coat, put on his shoes and went outside to wander and dispel sad thoughts. Entering the nearest store, he bought a can of beer and set off, thinking that it was time to change something, otherwise the past would swallow the present and the future.

Arriving at work, Margarita felt unwell and dizzy. Remembering that the management owed her a day off, she decided to take advantage of the legal day off. In a good mood, she returned to her husband, with whom she lived in a civil marriage for two years and found him with his mistress. In surprise, she dropped the package, breaking two bottles of champagne, purchased on the occasion of the day off. The fizzy drink spread across the floor, and tears rolled from the eyes, refracted by diamonds in the golden rays of the daylight. She silently looked into the eyes of the person whom a minute earlier she considered the most dear and close.
- What did you want? he wondered as he got out of bed. We men need variety in our sex lives. This is not treason, but a thirst for new sensations. I love you and hope for your understanding. Forget everything!
- I would rather forget you, goat, - the girl was offended, leaving the apartment and throwing the keys on the floor.
The civil spouse did not rush after him, begging to return. Opening the window, he waited for her to leave the entrance, and shouted after her:
- Well, live one bitch. If I knew you were so stupid, I would have left you a long time ago. Roll, fair wind!
Margarita did not answer, wanting to get away and forget the traitor forever. She felt ashamed, as if she herself had committed a vile act, so she hurried to hide from people's eyes, hiding in the most hidden corner of the hectic city. Margarita moved in an unknown direction, head down so that oncoming people would not see her tear-stained face and mascara spread over her eyes. Leaving the avenue, she moved along the road, along which, without slowing down, cars raced. Deep, icy puddles formed on a damp, dirty road treated with non-freezing reagents. Walking along the sidewalk past one of them, Margarita did not pay attention to a taxi car moving in the right lane. Having caught up with her, the driver drove through a puddle, dousing the girl with a dirty ice slurry. Despair was replaced by shock, she wanted to disappear from the face of the Earth or die under the wheels of a car. Without thinking about the consequences, the girl stepped onto the roadway filled with traffic. A careless step almost became fatal, but suddenly she felt a strong hand grab her by the elbow and return it to the sidewalk.
- Do not get upset over trifles - she heard the voice of a man who brought her back to reality. Let's go behind the nearest house and I'll brush your clothes with snow. I was also doused from head to toe, nothing, wiped off.
She looked at her savior. It turned out to be a handsome man, middle-aged with a can of beer in his hand. He looked at the unfortunate girl and smiled openly and kindly.
“Come quickly, before the dirt is absorbed into the clothes,” he said and led her away from the road, taking her by the arm.
The problem turned out to be trivial. Going out to a clean clearing, he wiped her face, clothes and boots with snow. As the dirt was cleared, Margarita calmed down and caught herself thinking that not a single man cared about her like that. The tidying up procedure took several minutes, during which she experienced true pleasure, again felt herself needed by someone.
- Now everything is clean! - the stranger said with satisfaction, having finished the work. It is a pity that there is no mirror, but I can swear that you look no worse than other townspeople.
He took a sip of beer from a can, handed it to Margarita and asked:
- Would you like a beer? Have a drink, it will not hurt you to smooth out the stress.
- Of course I want, you still ask! she smiled.
Taking the jar, Margarita took a few sips.
I don't even know how to thank you? she said, returning the beer to the owner. Today is not my best day, my loved one betrayed me, and they also doused me with mud. Thank you, I could have died or been left crippled.
- Trouble happens to everyone, - the stranger answered with a smile. That's why we are people, to help each other. By the way, my name is Andrew!
- Margarita! She introduced herself, already smiling. Very glad to meet you! Could you walk me home, Andrei? With you, I feel much more at ease.
- With pleasure I spend, just let's go to "you", - Andrey suggested.
- Agree! – answered the girl. And you look like one Santa Claus, who also saved me. It happened a long time ago, I was still a teenager. On New Year's Eve, I walked, thinking about something, and came to my senses only when they pulled me by the hood of my coat. Can you imagine, if not for him, I would have fallen under a bus going at full speed. By the way, you can call me Margo, that's what my parents call me.
- As you say, Margo, - Andrey agreed. I also had an accident on New Year's Eve. An amazing coincidence, Santa Claus, or rather the Snow Maiden, helped me. I'll tell you sometime if you want. It’s a pity that the beer is over, I suggest buying a couple of cans for the road.
- Buy me a couple of cans, I have a day off today, and tomorrow is Saturday.
- And I, in general, am the happiest person in the world, I have a vacation and rest for another three weeks!
- Lucky! – smiled girl. Let's go for a beer, celebrate your vacation, my weekend and our acquaintance.
Taking Andrei by the arm, she led him in the direction of the supermarket, located on the other side of the road. They spent the whole day together, walking around the city, and when a velvet night fell on Earth, they could not part for a long time, guessing that the meeting did not happen by chance. Andrei invited her to see her tomorrow, and she happily agreed, secretly hoping that this person had the same sincere mutual feelings for her.
Margarita was not mistaken and was not disappointed. Love flared up brightly and instantly, as gunpowder ignites from the touch of fire. They began to meet daily and soon could not imagine their future life without each other. Two weeks later, Andrei gave her an engagement ring and offered to get married in a church. Margot agreed and, having collected some simple belongings, she moved to live in his apartment.
A month has passed. The street smelled of Christmas trees, tangerines and New Year holidays, there was one day left before the holiday. In anticipation of the fun, the mood of the townspeople noticeably improved, they became smiling and cheerful, everyone, without exception, was waiting for the little happiness bestowed in winter. An unusual bustle reigned in the stores, the season of high sales had come, everything that was stale on the shelves and showcases was bought up. The weather favored a festive mood, warm, sunny days stood outside, occasionally snow fell, gently wrapping bushes and trees with light fluff. In the evening, the city appeared in all its glory, shooting into the dark skies with billions of lights of festive garlands and making the world a little brighter. The anticipation of the holiday was felt everywhere, life became easier, merrier and more carefree, the hope arose in the souls of the townspeople that next year everything would certainly change for the better.
Andrei and Margot were happy like children. They bought a small artificial Christmas tree, a set of toys, and a cute electric garland that glowed and shimmered in every color of the rainbow. Gathering and dressing the fir tree, they decorated it with a garland. Multi-colored lights merrily ran along the tree, filling the room with a sense of celebration, happiness and good mood.
- Listen, Margo, - Andrey said thoughtfully, looking at the Christmas tree. Let's celebrate the New Year in the forest, shall we? The weather is wonderful, warm, we will make a fire, we will make a barbecue.
- Great idea! – agreed girl. It's so romantic to celebrate the new year in nature. But it's dark in there.
- Get a flashlight. And when we make a fire, it will be light. I know a cozy place, there is a table and a bench.
- It is far?
- No, three hundred meters from the city. The path in the forest is trodden, and there is not much snow, we will get there without any problems.
- I agree, let's go! You need to buy meat and coal for barbecue. Will you go shopping with me?
“Of course I will,” Andrew said. What can I do at home alone? There is plenty of time before the new year.
In pleasant chores, the day was imperceptibly drawing to a close. Two hours before midnight, they left and slowly moved to the bus stop. I had to wait twenty minutes, at this time public transport moved at great intervals. Finally the bus arrived and they settled into the empty cabin. Having reached the desired stop, they got out, turned on the lantern and stepped into the dark forest, wrapped in silence unusual for the city. Andrei illuminated the road, and they slowly moved in the direction of the treasured clearing. They discovered a fabulous landscape with dark tree trunks, pure snow and billions of stars that can only be seen far from the illuminated metropolis.
“Something is scary to me,” Margot got worried, clinging tightly to Andrei. There is such silence around, as if we were in a different reality.
- There is no need to be afraid, - Andrei answered, taking brandy from his bag. Now let's drink one hundred grams, and all fears will disappear.
- Behind old year. Whatever it was, but for us it turned out to be happy! Margo suggested.
- With pleasure I will drink for the old year! Andrew agreed. This is our year, sorry to see him off.
Andrei poured cognac into plastic cups, they drank, ate chocolate and moved on. Margot quickly calmed down and began to tell the anecdote she had heard at work. Ten minutes later they were there. Hanging the lantern on a branch, Andrei lit a cigarette and asked:
- You like?
- Great! she replied smiling. Very cozy and romantic. I missed this beauty. Look at the sky, Andrei, how many stars can you see in a city? And the moon is like a huge dim lamp. I'm in such a great mood, thanks for getting me in fairy forest!
- I like it too, - Andrei agreed, sweeping snow off the table. I'll take care of the barbecue and the fire, and you lay out the food and alcohol. Just don't be afraid, I'll go for firewood, I won't go far.
- I'm not afraid anymore. Probably cognac worked, but still do not go far.
While she was laying the table and stringing meat on skewers, Andrey returned, carrying an armful of firewood. Having collected the brazier, he filled up the coal, kindled it, then piled firewood into a house and organized a fire. It became light and cozy around, and the aroma of browned meat filled the area.
- Well, - Andrey said. Let's turn the skewers and wait for midnight.
He glanced at his watch, poured cognac into glasses and said:
- A quarter to twelve, I propose to drink again for the old year, and we will meet the new one with champagne.
They drank, kissed and settled down on a bench.
- Look look! Margot screamed. That's a hare. Have you ever seen hares in this forest?
A white fluffy animal jumped out of the darkness and stopped ten meters away. Settling down on the snow, he began to observe people.
“I didn’t see hares here even as a child,” Andrey admitted. Look how beautiful he is, white as snow.
"Let's not scare him," Margo suggested. Let it lie, the three of us celebrate the new year more fun.
- Of course, more fun. If we knew that we would meet an oblique, we would take carrots.
From the depths of the forest, a deaf, hysterical howl was heard. Margo shuddered and, looking into Andrey's eyes, asked?
Were there wolves here?
“Of course not,” Andrey reassured. Behind the forest there are warehouses, there are a lot of dogs. This is a dog howling.
"I'm not afraid of them," said Margot. I'll check the barbecue, and you watch the time, otherwise we'll miss midnight.
“Time, one minute to twelve,” Andrey reported. I pour champagne and turn on the radio.
The chiming of the chimes was heard on the air, they drank and stood embracing for a long time.
“The meat is almost ready,” Margot said, sitting down on the bench. You can smoke and shoot. I think it will be delicious.
- Still would! Andrey said. Look, Margo, it seems we have guests.
Three female figures emerged from the darkness. They slowly approached the fire, and one of the girls said:
- Hello! Let me warm up?
- Welcome! Andrey answered.
- Happy holiday to you! the girls said at the same time, coming closer.
- Sit down at the table! Margot invited. Our barbecue is ready, drink, eat.
Thanks, we won't give up!
- What would you like to pour? Andrey asked. There is champagne.
The girls made sour faces, then almost in unison asked:
- Is there anything stronger?
- Cognac, - Andrey answered, taking out plastic cups.
- Cognac is what the doctor ordered! the girls rejoiced. Pour more, otherwise we'll freeze.
Andrei spilled cognac, they drank for the new year, ate and one of the girls introduced herself:
My name is Sorrow. And these are my younger sisters - Sadness and Longing. Don't worry, we're actually fun.
Thinking, she added:
- Funny when we drink.
- My name is Andrey, and my wife is Margo! he replied. Are your names real or are they nicknames?
- There is no real one, - said the eldest, named Sorrow. Don't you understand where you are?
- Where did we get to? Margo asked, surprised. We are in the forest, not far from the city.
“Not quite,” said Sadness. This is a magical forest. Not everyone can get into it, you found yourself here on an exceptional occasion.
- Well, you have jokes, girls! Andrey answered. You are so convincing that I want to believe. But miracles happen only in fairy tales.
“Sometimes they happen in life,” Sadness stated. Let's have a drink and I'll prove myself right.
Andrei spilled cognac and they drank. Taking a cigarette out of her pocket, Sadness lit a cigarette and said:
Take a look at the clock.
- My watch has stopped and shows midnight, - said Andrey.
Margo took out her cell phone and looked at the display.
- The phone is also shown at midnight, I don’t understand anything? Can time stop?
"In some cases, yes," Sorrow answered confidently. But do not worry, grandfather will help you.
- What grandfather? Margot didn't understand.
“Santa Claus,” the girls answered in unison. And the Snow Maiden, - added Sorrow. Did you not know they exist? Soon you will be convinced that fairy tales did not appear out of nowhere. They are in a hurry to you, so I propose to drink on the road until the grandfather sees. He will be unhappy that we drink alcohol.
Andrei poured cognac and said:
- You, dear girls, have a snack, otherwise you will get tipsy, get lost in the forest.
“The forest is our home,” Tosca explained.
“I'm sorry, but I'll miss it,” said Margot. I can't drink that often.
- I, perhaps, too, - Andrew supported her.
“Then we’ll get more,” Sorrow joked and spilled the remaining cognac.
- I'll say a toast, - decided Sadness, not participating in the conversation. Thank you guys for the hospitality and food! May everything be wonderful for you in the new year! Hooray!
They drank, ate a piece of meat and began to say goodbye.
- We do not drive you away, sit still, - suggested Margot. Have a drink, we have another bottle.
"No thanks, we've got to go," Sorrow replied. And you do not leave, wait for Santa Claus and the Snow Maiden.
Moving into the forest, the girls disappeared into the darkness. Andrei looked at his watch, the hands of which stubbornly showed midnight.
- What do you think about it? Margot asked, realizing that time does not move.
- I think that we need to wait for Santa Claus and the Snow Maiden. Hope they clear things up
"We'll wait," Margot agreed. I think they will tell us something important.
Andrei threw firewood into the dying fire, and the flame crept up, illuminating the clearing. It became warmer, they drank champagne, lit a cigarette and began to wait, sitting on a bench. Soon the ringing of bells was heard and to them, as in a fairy tale, a trio of white horses, led by Santa Claus, rolled up. Next to him was a young pretty Snow Maiden, who smoked a thin cigarette with a gilded filter. Descending from the sleigh, they approached the fire and greeted each other:
- Peace to you! - said Santa Claus in a sonorous bass.
- Happy New Year with a new happiness! - added the Snow Maiden.
- And you happiness in the new year! Andrew wished.
- Sit at the table! Margot invited. Drink, eat!
Shooting a glance, grandfather saw a full bottle of cognac.
"Thanks, I'm not hungry," he replied. And maybe I’ll drink cognac with good people!
- And pour me a drink, I'll drink too! - the Snow Maiden was not taken aback.
“Your nose hasn’t grown yet,” shouted the grandfather.
- Then champagne, - the girl said in a capricious tone.
- I allow champagne, - the grandfather decided, changing his anger to mercy.
“Pour me a full glass, my dear,” the Snow Maiden asked, turning to Margot. It is difficult to agree on something with my grandfather, he constantly grumbles at me.
- I'll pour, - Andrey said, pouring alcohol into glasses. How much do you want, grandpa?
Frost looked at Andrey and answered:
- Pour it while it's pouring. You're an adult, and you're still asking.
Andrey poured them a full glass each, and himself and Margot thirty grams of cognac each.
- Let's drink to a meeting and a happy new year! - suggested the Snow Maiden, raising her glass.
They clinked glasses and drank. Santa Claus grunted contentedly and thanked:
- Here, thank you, respected grandfather! And now it's time to get down to business, because you already realized that you fell into history?
“Honestly,” Andrei replied, “we didn’t understand anything. Three girls came to us, drank cognac and told us to wait for you.
- Did they drink cognac? - the grandfather was indignant. Well, I'll arrange a debriefing for them! Next time, drive them in the neck, but by the way, there may not be a next time.
He paused, glancing at the bottle.
Andrei silently filled the glass.
- And me, and me! squealed the Snow Maiden, holding out a glass.
He poured a full glass of champagne, they drank, and the grandfather grunted contentedly and continued:
- You are in another dimension, my children. Time has stopped for you, so it will always be midnight. To return home, you have to complete some obligatory tasks. Once you have already done them, now you have to do it again. Otherwise it is impossible, such is the law. As you get things done, time will move on.
“I don’t understand anything,” Margo admitted honestly. What exactly should we do?
“That’s the rub,” said Santa Claus. You yourself must guess what exactly you have to do. I give you a hint. When you leave the forest, you will find yourself in the past, you will return for twenty years. Remember what happened to you then. You will be dressed in Santa Claus and Snow Maiden costumes, so no one will recognize you.
Grandfather hit the ground with his staff and Andrei felt a heavy sheepskin coat on his shoulders, and felt boots on his feet. He looked at Margo, the clothes of the Snow Maiden suited her face.
- Look flawless! Grandfather stated, rubbing his hands with satisfaction. Now listen. The plan is the following - you go to the city, walk, amuse the kids, give gifts, work miracles and solve your own problems along the way. When you're done, come back to this place, we'll come too. That's all, isn't it a difficult task?
- Very pleasant, - said Margot. But we don't have gifts for kids, and we don't know how to work miracles.
“This problem can be solved,” said the grandfather, pulling out an object resembling a pencil from his coat pocket. Here is a magic wand for you, touch it, make a wish, and it will immediately come true. Demonstrating:
Going out into the clearing, he jabbed his wand into the snowdrift and said:
- I want summer to return to the meadow!
In a fraction of a second, the snow disappeared, and the clearing changed beyond recognition. Grass and forest flowers appeared on it, on which bumblebees and bees sat. Butterflies swirled above their heads, and a mosquito landed on Andrey's hand and bit him painfully. Having driven away the bloodsucker, he said:
- I can't believe it, but it works!
- Can I pick forest flowers? Margot asked.
- You can, - answered Frost, - but then. It's time for you to go to the city, I hope you don't need to show the way?
He waved his wand and winter returned to the forest.
- Please use carefully! - the grandfather warned, giving the magic wand to Andrei. And try not to lose. I'll find it, of course, but I don't want any extra hassle. Are there any questions?
“I don’t,” Andrew replied.
“Me too,” Margo added.
- Then go! - the grandfather boomed cheerfully. Having settled down in the sleigh, Frost and the Snow Maiden rushed off into the forest, raising a pillar of "prickly" snowflakes.
- Well, what are we going? Margo suggested.
- Went! Andrew agreed. Let's smoke on the way.
The city of the nineties turned out to be crowded and cheerful, but it differed unfavorably from the modern metropolis in its modest festive decoration. Andrei and Margo remembered that in the 1990s people flocked to the central square, to the only artificial Christmas tree in the whole city. It was there that they moved, handing out gifts to the kids from the bag, which was replenished at the request of Andrei. Children surrounded them halfway, and each received exactly the gift they desired. The small miracle shocked the parents, and their surprised voices were heard behind their backs:
- And Santa Claus is real. And the Snow Maiden too! Miracles do happen.
On the square, a boy, about ten years old, ran up to them and asked:
- Santa Claus, are you real?
On reflection, Andrey decided not to upset him and answered:
- Of course it's real. Make a wish and it will certainly come true!
“I want dad to come back to us,” the boy said, looking into his eyes with hope.
- They did not expect such a turn.
- Who are you hanging out with now? Margot asked.
“One,” the boy replied. I live with my mother, but she did not go with me.
- What does she do?
- Sitting in the kitchen, drinking vodka and crying, - said the boy.
- And where is your dad?
- He disappeared in the war, - the boy answered with tears in his eyes.
- It's wonderful that he disappeared in the war, and did not go to another woman! - Andrey said happily, feeling for a magic wand in his pocket. Come home, dad is waiting for you.
- Aren't you lying? the boy asked incredulously. Suddenly, I will come, but he is not at home?
"He never cheats," Margot assured. What gift do you want for the new year? Make a guess and take it in the bag.
- Can I have a present for my mother? the boy asked in confusion.
- Certainly! Take it out of the bag.
Reaching into the sack, he pulled out a set of French perfumes.
Will it fit or replace? Andrey asked.
- Thanks! - the boy was delighted, whose eyes sparkled with happiness.
“Now take the present for yourself,” Margo suggested. What do you want?
“No,” he replied. You have already done too much for me.
"Don't be shy," Margo repeated insistently. Take a gift!
- I dream that I had a game console, - the boy asked embarrassedly.
“Take the game console out of the bag,” Margo said in a voice that brooked no objection. She's yours.
He timidly reached into the bag and pulled out the attachment.
- Would you like this game?
- I never even dreamed of such a game! – honestly admitted the boy.
- Take it, it's yours, - said Margot smiling. Run home, your father has been waiting for you.
- Many thanks! The little boy beamed with happiness. I will never forget you and will tell everyone that I met the real Santa Claus and the Snow Maiden!
He ran away, and Andrei and Margot looked after him for a long time, rejoicing at the positive changes in his life.
“Now I understand why they sent us here,” Margot said.
- To do good deeds, - Andrew said confidently. Santa Claus can't do it alone. There were too many people to help.
"It's nice to help people," Margot agreed. Do you remember, Santa Claus said that we must solve our own problems. One of them just walked past us.
- Do you mean a teenage girl? Is she familiar to you?
“I know her too well, because she is me,” Margo replied. And I, that is, she, will now step under the bus. Andrew, you have to save her!
- Understood! – Andrey has told and hastened after the girl. He caught up with her as she stepped into the road. Grabbing the teenager by the hood of his coat, Andrei dragged her onto the sidewalk. A second later, a regular bus rushed down the road at full speed.
Looking at the savior, the girl said in confusion:
- I don’t know how to thank you, Santa Claus!
- No thanks! Andrey smiled. Santa Claus will always come to the rescue. Be careful on the road.
- Thanks! - she answered, looking at Andrey intently. And I know you. We met somewhere.
- No, we will meet in the future, twenty years later.
- Miracles, - the girl was surprised. Somehow I'm sure it will. Thank you, good luck to you!
- Be happy in the new year, goodbye!
- Bye! - the girl answered and slowly moved along the passage, carefully looking around.
- After this incident, I was afraid to cross the road for a long time, - said Margo, who approached. So it was you. I immediately recognized you when a car threw mud at me, and you helped to avoid an accident. Is it possible to forget your eyes. Thank you, you saved me again!
“I guess it’s fate,” Andrey answered. We met not by chance, everything is destined in heaven.
- I also believe in it. You are my guardian angel, appear at the right time, in the right place. Where shall we go?
- I want to meet my father, - Andrey admitted. He died ten years ago and I miss him.
- Let's go to him! Are you afraid that he will recognize you?
- In these clothes I can not be recognized. My younger brother lives with his parents, he is now twelve years old. Let's say that they brought a gift from me.
- Brilliant! Margo smiled. And what will you give him?
- Anything you want, I have a magic wand. Let's go quickly!
Half an hour later they rang the doorbell of the apartment. Father opened.
- Come in, dear guests! - he invited, letting Santa Claus and the Snow Maiden pass. Please at the table, drink with us, eat.
Margo noticed a tear rolling down Andrei's cheek. Taking out a handkerchief, she brushed it off imperceptibly.
Andrei's younger brother appeared from the room and said:
- And I know that there are no real Santa Clauses and Snow Maidens.
- There are, son, - said the mother, who was behind him. Santa Claus brought you a present. Are you from Andrey?
“You could say that,” said Margo. You do not believe in the existence of Santa Claus and the Snow Maiden?
- I do not believe! – stubbornly declared capricious fellow. You are not real, my brother sent you.
“No, no,” Andrew replied. We are the most real, and now we will prove it. What gift would you like to receive for the new year?
"Big bike," the boy replied. But you don't, I see.
Feeling the magic wand in his pocket, Andrey answered:
- A bicycle, so a bicycle. Open the door and find your present. Didn't fit in the bag.
The boy incredulously approached the door, opened it and shouted with delight:
- Hooray ... ah! Santa Claus and the Snow Maiden gave me a bike! I have a brand new bike! Thanks!
The happy boy rolled the bike into the apartment and began to admire it fascinated.
“You will ride your bike in the summer,” said Margot. Now choose the gift you need now.
- Do you have another present? the boy asked incredulously.
“We have everything you want,” Andrey said. What do you want Misha?
- I want a stick under the right hand and skates.
- Didn't you see them outside the door? Andrey asked.
“There was nothing there,” Misha was upset.
“Look again,” Margo suggested.
Misha opened the door in confusion and hesitantly walked out into the corridor. A second later, shouts of joy were heard from there, and a happy boy appeared on the threshold with skates and a hockey stick.
Taken aback, the parents silently watched what was happening.
"I've never seen anything like it in my life," said the mother. How do you do these tricks?
- Ordinary New Year's magic, - smiling, explained Margot. It is not easy to believe in a miracle, but your eyes do not deceive you.
“But I can’t believe my eyes,” my father said thoughtfully. Thank you for the gifts, we invite you to the table, such a thing needs to be “washed”.
Sitting comfortably at the table, they drank cognac and the father asked:
- Still, tell me honestly, how do you do it?
Andrei took out a pencil-like object from his pocket, showed it to those present and explained:
- With a magic wand. Believe it or not, but it is. Now answer the question, do you want to live happily, raise children, raise grandchildren and great-grandchildren?
- What more could you want? - answered the mother.
- We dream about it, - the father confirmed, pouring cognac into glasses.
- Is this your New Year's wish? Andrey did not let up.
“So be it,” said the father.
- I'm doing it! - Andrey said and touched his parents with a magic wand. Thank you for the treat, and now we have to leave you, we have things to do.
Having drunk on the road, Andrey and Margot moved to the door.
Thanks, come back! thanked the hosts. We really want our cherished desire to come true, and we will always be waiting for you!
“Don't even doubt that it will come true,” Margot promised. And we will definitely come.
- When? the mother asked in confusion.
- In twenty years, - Andrey answered. Exactly twenty years later we will again sit down at the table and drink cognac.
When the guests left, the parents returned to the room and the mother said quietly:
- I guess who they are. We will meet in twenty years, they will certainly come.
“It’s hard to believe in a miracle,” my father said thoughtfully, “but we are thinking about the same thing ...
In a great mood, Andrei and Margo went out into the street and slowly moved along the house.
- The last thing left, - Margo said, looking into Andrey's eyes. You said that the Snow Maiden saved you on New Year's Eve. What happened?
- Walked with friends in the woods. When we parted, I moved home. On the way, I decided to move out on my feet from a high ice mountain, but the ride was unsuccessful, I broke my leg in two places. I could not go further, and there was no one to help in a deserted place. I had to crawl towards the city. I don’t know how many hours I struggled, but when my strength ran out, I lost consciousness. In the hospital, they told me that the Snow Maiden found me on the outskirts of the forest and called an ambulance. Now I know who saved me. Let's go to the forest, you will find me in a snowdrift. Thank you, I am eternally grateful to you!
Everything turned out just like that. On the outskirts of the forest, Margot found a young man unconscious. He was covered with snow, and a boot was visible from a snowdrift. Taking the victim in their arms, Margot and Andrei carried him to the bench and called an ambulance. The doctor said that he would live, and the car sped off to the city hospital with flashing lights on.
“Now that’s it,” Andrey said with satisfaction. We have fulfilled the instructions of Santa Claus, and we can return with a clear conscience to the cooled barbecue. Do you want to visit someone?
- No, I don't want to change anything, because in the present everything is fine with me. We go to the fairy forest, wait for Santa Claus and the Snow Maiden. I hardly believe in the reality of what is happening, it seems to me that soon we will wake up, and the miracles will end.
- It's hard to believe in a miracle, but this is not a dream, Margo. Ordinary magic can not be called otherwise. I am happy that we were given the opportunity to change lives for the better.
- I'm glad too! I never believed in Christmas miracles. Now I'm convinced I was wrong.
- And I did not believe - Andrew agreed. Well, let's go to the forest, soon the magic will end. He glanced at the clock, which stubbornly showed midnight.
When they got to the place, they made sure that the fire had gone out and the barbecue had cooled down. There were empty bottles and a frozen snack on the table. Gathering firewood, they lit a fire and warmed up the barbecue.
- We'll have to use a magic wand, - Andrey decided, taking it out of his pocket. We will order cognac for Santa Claus, and champagne for the Snow Maiden, I am sure that they will not refuse.
"I wouldn't mind a drink either," Margot said. I guess the alcohol won't hurt you either.
- Great offer! - Andrey supported her and cognac and champagne appeared on the table.
After drinking cognac, they ate hot meat and heard the ringing of bells. From the darkness of the fairy forest, a trio of horses appeared, driven by Santa Claus. The pretty Snow Maiden was again smoking a thin cigarette with a golden filter. The sleigh stopped, and the riders, dismounting, approached the table.
- Peace to you! Grandpa greeted. How are we doing? However, you can not tell, we all know.
“You did everything right,” the Snow Maiden continued. Now let's have a drink and say goodbye.
Andrei poured cognac and champagne into glasses. Ded Moroz and Snegurochka poured to the brim.
- Happiness to you in the new year, joy and fun! Grandfather wished, raising his glass.
- Thanks! - almost in unison thanked Andrey and Margo. And you be happy!
When they drank, Santa Claus took Andrei's magic wand, waved it, and the world plunged into oblivion. Then it became light, the fire flared up in full force. Andrei and Margo were sitting on a bench in the forest, and on the table were open bottles of cognac and champagne. Margo was the first to wake up from her stupor and asked:
- Andrew, are you all right?
“It's all right,” he replied. I fell asleep for a moment and saw an amazing dream in which three sisters came to us, then Santa Claus and the Snow Maiden appeared, and we ended up in the past. There I met my mother, father and younger brother, and we also saved each other.
“Miracles,” said Margot. We saw the same dreams, I fell asleep too. Too bad the dream didn't come true.
- This cannot happen in reality, - Andrey was upset. It's a pity.
"Let's go home," Margo suggested, I'm starting to freeze.
Andrew glanced at his watch and said:
- Three o'clock in the morning. No wonder you're freezing. Warm up by the fire and let's go.
Having gathered, they drank on the path, finished the meat and moved in the direction of the house. Andrei turned on the lantern, and the gloomy fairy-tale forest was transformed, becoming brighter. When they went out into the city, his mobile phone rang, and an unfamiliar number was identified on the screen. Andrei accepted the calls and heard a painfully familiar voice, which he began to forget:
- Hello son! Happy holiday! And we are waiting for you. Remember, you promised to come visit ... in twenty years?
Surprised, he was speechless. Recovering a little, Andrew replied:
- Let's go, Dad. We'll be with you soon. I missed you so much!
- Who called? – asked Margo, looking at the confused Andrey.
"You won't believe it," he replied. It was the father calling.
Did you manage to get him back? Margot was surprised. So, on New Year's Eve, miracles really happen. Andrew, how wonderful that it was not a dream!
She threw herself on his neck, and they stood for a long time, hardly believing in the reality of what was happening ...
The winter has passed. The long-awaited spring thaw has come and lush snowdrifts poured with melt water, washing away dirt from roads and sidewalks. On the lawns warmed by the gentle Sun, modest yellow flowers appeared, the first messengers of spring. Buds swelled on the trees and young leaves appeared, which became more every day. Nature was waking up, and its renewal was pleasing to the eye and uplifting. Andrey and Margo got married in a church, and on their father's birthday they gave him a car, a convertible convertible. On weekends, they often visited their parents, and their father drove them around the delightful places of the Moscow region in a new car. Andrei's life has undergone cardinal changes, he again became cheerful and cheerful, making sure that death opens the door to a new life given by the Great Creator of all things - the Lord God.

Christmas is coming soon. Many people prefer to create a Christmas mood through watching Christmas movies, but we offer you a great alternative - 20 wonderful works with a Christmas atmosphere. Read with pleasure!

1. Charles Dickens - "A Christmas Carol in Prose"

There is no more famous work dedicated to Christmas in world literature than Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. Its huge popularity contributed to the fact that Christmas became the main holiday of Victorian England, a time of good fun and charity.
The story of old miser Ebenezer Scrooge and his transformation after a mystical visit from Jacob Marley and the Ghosts of Christmas was written fairly quickly, in just six weeks. At the same time, Dickens was working on the chapters of Martin Chezelwit. While working on the Song, Dickens pursued ambitious plans, but he could not even imagine what a huge impact this short story would have on all world art, on the worldview of people all over the world, to such an extent that Dickens himself would become associated with Christmas, and the name his hero Ebenezir Scrooge will become both a symbol of Christmas and a synonym for stinginess.

2. O. Henry - "Gifts of the Magi"

Gifts of the Magi - a story by O. Henry (William Sidney Porter) about two newlyweds living in a cramped little room and experiencing financial problems. Despite this, they try to please each other by giving gifts. And for this they must sacrifice what is dear to them. Gifts are not the main thing, of course, but the main thing is the attention, care and love that our heroes felt. They understand true happiness.

3. Sharon Owens - Mulberry Street Tea Room

The fates of the heroes of this incredible Christmas story are bizarrely intertwined and converge in an amazing place full of mysteries and wonders - in a tea shop on Mulberry Street, where delicious desserts are served and where one day, out of the blue, you can receive a message from Nicolas Cage.
A touching and very funny book, in which romance and dreams go hand in hand, will help you pass the long winter evenings, and the exquisite cherry cheesecake, its recipe you will be surprised to find at the end of the book, will be a pleasant addition to the festive tea party.

4. Esther Emden - “House with magic windows”

1. Main character"The Adventures of a Little Actor" (1958) - kind and cheerful toy Petrushka - the only friend of the girl Sasha. But sitting in one place is not in his nature, he must act, he needs a theater, performances, an audience: after all, Petrushka is a born actor ...
2. "House with Magic Windows" (1959) - a fascinating New Year's fairy tale. A lot can happen in this story. On one quiet New Year's Eve, the door to the room suddenly opens, and together with a cloud of frosty steam, Grandmother-doll will enter and call you to the House with magic windows ...
3. In the story " school year Marina Petrova” (1956) we meet a cheerful, sometimes careless and stubborn, but talented Marina, a student of a music school. There is no fairy tale in this story. But how captivating is this world of music, the world of real art!

5. Fannie Flagg - "Christmas and the Red Cardinal"

Frightened by a medical diagnosis, Oswald T. Campbell flees from cold and damp Chicago south to the hospitable Lost Creek, where he is going to celebrate his last Christmas. He does not expect anything good from the outback, but the reality turns out to be completely different from what he imagined it to be. Life in the Lost Creek, although measured, is very unusual and even strange. And the inhabitants of the town are also very unusual. The postman delivers the mail by boat. The only shop is run by a little red bird named Jack. The ladies of the town secretly do good by uniting in an esoteric society called the Big Peas. And Oswald himself suddenly turns out to be the main figure of local social life. With the approach of Christmas, amazing events begin to occur that will change the lives of not only Oswald, but also all the inhabitants of the Lost Creek.

Fannie Flagg's novel is a strange, addictive, warm Christmas tale full of the most ordinary magic that many people can do if they really want to. A book for everyone who yearned for a kind word and a beautiful story.

6. Tove Jansson - "Magic Winter"

We continue our journey to a fairy-tale land inhabited by charming Moomin creatures. We will find out why the winter turned out to be magical and how to behave in this case. Amazing creatures inhabit the Moomin Valley. Of course, these are not people, but in Fillyjonk, who believed in disasters, and in Hemul, who loved silence, you can recognize yourself.

7. Eustein Gorder - "Christmas Mystery"

The book by the famous Norwegian writer Justin Gorder is built like a Christmas calendar. Every day, starting from December 1, the reader, together with the boy Joachim, gets acquainted with the biblical story, and also travels through time and space on that wonderful day when the baby Jesus was born in the city of Bethlehem ...

8. John Grisham - "Christmas with the Losers"

The usual American Crank family celebrated Christmas every year, but this whole pre-Christmas fuss begins to get boring over time, and now, when the daughter of Luther and Nora Crank leaves to study, Luther gets the only chance to fly to the Caribbean for the whole Christmas vacation and save $ 600. The couple decide that this Christmas there are no garlands, snowmen, festive dinners, and even no ... Christmas tree and pack their bags with a clear conscience. Soon one of the Krenkov neighbors finds out about this, and the next morning the whole town. The townspeople begin to organize rallies and protests, Nora was already ready to make concessions and install a Christmas tree and a snowman in the yard so that the inhabitants of the town would calm down, but her husband's word is law. However, circumstances change, and the daughter and her fiancé should unexpectedly come to mom and dad on the Christmas weekend. The Cranks have to rush to the store for almost sold out groceries and decorate the house before Blair arrives home...

9. Rosamund Pilcher - "On Christmas Eve"

Five not too happy people, by the will of circumstances, find themselves in the same house in the north of Scotland. Rosamund Pilcher talks about her characters with a warm, kind smile, and the reader begins to believe that the approaching Christmas will surely bring wonderful changes to their lives. The new novel by the famous English writer is distinguished by lyricism, gentle humor and unexpected plot twists.

10. Richard Paul Evans - "Christmas Box"

The young Evans family, who have settled in the old mansion of the wealthy widow Maryann Parkin, discover a lot of amazing things in their new place. Ancient copies of the Bible, paintings in expensive frames, a box with mysterious letters to an unknown addressee. It takes place around Christmas. Richard, Keri and their four-year-old daughter Jenna, together with the hostess of the house, are preparing to celebrate the holiday, when suddenly a terrible thing happens - Marianne dies. But before her death, she reveals to the Evans a great secret, before which even the bitterness of loss fades ...

11. John R. R. Tolkien - "Letters from Santa Claus"

“Grandfather's Christmas Letters” is a fairy tale that Tolkien told his children for over twenty years (the first letter was written to his eldest son in 1920 and the last letter to his daughter in 1943). Letters came at Christmas, and the children answered them. Christmas Grandfather described his home, friends and helpers, events, funny and sometimes disturbing, that happened at the North Pole.

12. Donna Vanleer - "Christmas Shoes"

“Christmas Shoes” is a wonderful, inspirational book that you can read with pleasure both on a holiday and on a weekday. This is a story about two completely different people whose fates crossed only once on Christmas Eve. One of them is looking for a way to return to the family, which he did not pay attention to for a long time, while the family of the other is trying to come to terms with the loss of his mother and wife.

13. Susan Wojciechowski - "Mr. Toomey's Christmas Miracle"

This is a real Christmas story. About love, about friendship, about finding oneself and, of course, about hope. Woodcarver Jonathan Toomey, having lost his wife and son a few years ago, cannot find joy in life. Having plunged into grief, all that remains for him is to frown and, avoiding contact with people, go about his business - carve figures from wood. But one day, a widow and her little son knocked on his door to ask Tumi to make them Christmas figurines. Taking the order, the master had no idea what would happen.

14. Cleveland Emory - "Christmas Cat"

American historian and journalist Cleveland Emory is also known as the founder of the Animal Welfare Fund. His witty and kind book is a tribute to love and admiration for our smaller brothers, who, according to the author, can teach a lot to a person.

15. Ernst Hoffmann - "The Nutcracker and the Mouse King"

In this book, with the twelfth strike of the clock, toys come to life, and the brave Nutcracker rushes to battle with the insidious Mouse King. He will definitely win, because a good heart and devoted love always work wonders.

16. Hans Christian Andersen - "Girl with matches"

A little girl sells matches on a cold winter evening. But is it possible to keep warm by burning them one by one?

17. Capote Truman - "Memories of a Christmas"

A strange couple lives in a big old house in a remote town.
A sixty-year-old woman and a seven-year-old boy during the year, denying themselves everything, collect money to bake several dozen pies for Christmas and send them by mail ...

18. Laura Lockington - "Christmas Cake"

Poppy, the antique trinket shop clerk, is sweet, smart, ironic, but not very happy. On the eve of Christmas, she feels especially lonely, because she will have to spend the holiday in the company of an obnoxious monkey, which Poppy undertook to patronize. So it would have happened if not for an invitation to an old castle. A few hours on the train - and Poppy from boring London finds herself in a magical land, where one strange event after another happens to her.

19. O. Henry - "Christmas tree with a surprise"

Who said that the recognized master of the short story O. Henry wrote only for adults? Talk to your children and you will immediately understand that in modern life they understand no worse, but better than you. What is it about here? But re-read the unusually entertaining and witty stories with your children, and it will become clear to you that all these characters of O. Henry: modest saleswomen and stockbrokers, crooks and bandits, millionaires who believe in the omnipotence of the dollar, and very poor people - have long been moved in with us. Well, such eternal values ​​\u200b\u200blike love and friendship are eternal for that, in order to excite the blood just as it was 100 years ago ...

20. N. V. Gogol - “The Night Before Christmas”

A fantastic story about the life of the Ukrainian people, in which the description of the realistic features of their manners and customs is combined with a wonderful fiction. The plot outline of the story is the romantic love of a lad for a beautiful girl.

The bigger, the better! The attentive reader has supplemented our list with a wonderful book - "The Polar Express" by Chris Van Allsburg.

21. Chris Van Allsburg - The Polar Express

On Christmas Eve, a magic train arrives at the house where the hero of this fairy tale lives. He takes the boy to the North Pole. This is where Santa Claus is going to give his first Christmas present.

"The Adventures of New Year's Toys", E. Rakitina

A wonderful, atmospheric book about Christmas decorations that come to life on New Year's Eve and tell their magical adventures. Where did Plasticine Donkey travel? How did Puppy Yip stop being a coward? Why is it so important that there is not a speck of dust on the silver Fairy? And when does the Ball happen, where dreams come true? A fairy tale woven from childhood memories, fluffy snow, aromas of pine needles, citrus fruits and celebrations will warm you all year round with its warmth!

Publishing house "Rech"

"Christmas tree. A hundred years ago, compiled by E. Kim

This is not just a book, but a real gift set - buy several copies at once, you won't regret it! The book dedicated to the holiday of the Christmas tree in Russia in the late 19th - early 20th centuries contains Christmas stories and poems by popular authors with fascinating historical and everyday comments, descriptions of all kinds of crafts and children's Christmas tree ideas, as well as lively and vivid essays depicting Russian life at the border centuries and traditions associated with the celebration of the New Year and Christmas. Cardboard awards are enclosed in a separate envelope - elegant postcards, a carnival mask and Christmas decorations.

Publishing house "Labyrinth Press"

"The True Story of Santa Claus", A. Zhvalevsky and E. Pasternak

A magical and historical fairy tale for adults and children from 8-9 years old, those who have not yet completely parted with faith in the New Year's miracle, but are already ready to learn the truth about the life and history of their country. In 1912, on Christmas eve, a travel engineer Sergei Ivanovich Morozov, walking with his wife Masha in St. Petersburg, falls under the magical snow that falls once every fifty years. Without knowing it, the spouses become Santa Claus and the Snow Maiden for the next half century.

Publishing house "Time"

“Once in a winter city”, Y. Misharin

A Christmas tale in verse with incredibly tender and snow illustrations Igor Kuprin. And under the pseudonym Y. Misharin, two beautiful and beloved poets are hiding at once - Marina Boroditskaya and Mikhail Yasnov. Plot: a lonely woman suddenly has a grandson and ... immediately disappears! But of course, everything will end well - it's a wonderful story!

Pink Giraffe Publishing House

"Little Santa Claus", A. Shtoner

But what if Santa Clauses were also once small? But what if such a little Santa Claus lives in the world, who really wants to quickly become an adult and start working miracles, but none of his adult brothers take him seriously? Although he is always the first to bring the Christmas tree, bake cookies and prepare the sleigh, the big Santas still do not take him to deliver gifts. And so from year to year, until one day Little Santa Claus makes a wonderful discovery ... There are several stories about the adventures of Little Santa Claus - and you can buy a series right away.

Publishing house "CompassGid"

« The Snow Queen » , H.K. Andresen

One of Andersen's longest and most magical tales is imbued with a Christmas spirit. It begins on a winter evening and ends with the lines of a Protestant hymn: “Roses are blooming, beauty, beauty! Soon we will see the Christ child.” Good fights evil, the kind girl Gerda fights to ensure that her Kai does not turn into an ice (selfish and evil) person.

"Girl with matches", H. K. Andresen

A Christmas story about a match-selling girl who gets cold on New Year's Eve because she's afraid to go home to her abusive father. Trying to keep warm, she lights matches one after another, and in their short fire, happy Christmas pictures appear before the girl - a fat roasted goose, a smart Christmas tree, a late grandmother who felt sorry for the girl ... A sad story that awakens in us a sense of compassion and a desire to help the destitute. Very appropriate and correct reading on the eve of Christmas.

"Christ's boy on the Christmas tree", F. Dostoevsky

Another touching story about a child who is fascinated by the view of the Christmas tree outside the window of a rich house. There are lights, lights, treats and gifts, dressed up children play and dance. And a hungry boy freezes on the streets of St. Petersburg, abandoned to the mercy of fate by his dysfunctional parents. At some point, the boy nevertheless finds himself at the New Year's holiday among the same children as he is, carried away there by an unknown quiet voice ...

"Poor Prince", A. Kuprin

But here it's the other way around. One well-bred boy from rich family desperately does not want to spend the Christmas holiday among the boring guests of his circle. What is he doing? He runs away and carols bravely with the street boys all evening. Despite the fact that the fugitive is caught and returned to his place, the boy touched real life and experienced a real spiritual uplift.

« Miraculous Doctor”, A. Kuprin

Another touching story by Kuprin is based on very real events. On the eve of Christmas, the daughter in the Mertsalov family fell ill. And this is in addition to other misfortunes, quite common for a completely impoverished family. Fortunately, the girl's father accidentally meets Dr. Pirogov (the very famous one, the luminary of our medicine) on the street. The doctor immediately goes to the sick child and performs a real Christmas miracle...

"Polar Express", K.W. Allsburg

On Christmas Eve, a dreamy boy can't sleep, hoping to hear the sound of Santa's reindeer bell. But suddenly, instead of the long-awaited chime, the boy's hissing of a locomotive - it was the Polar Express that would take him and other kids to the North Pole to the city where Santa and his elves helpers live and work ... This book has long become a world classic, it is read not only children, but also adults who believe in miracles and can still hear the ringing of the bell.

"Christmas Mystery", Y. Gorder

This unusual calendar book is written by renowned author Eustein Gorder primarily for children. The protagonist of the book, a boy named Joachim, lives in Norway. And in Norway, as in other Scandinavian countries, there is a tradition to buy calendars on the eve of the Christmas holiday, which are called Christmas. Every day, starting December 1, children or their parents open a small window in the calendar, behind which are hidden chocolates, figurines or pictures. This continues all the time of Advent - that is, the expectation of Christmas, until December 24, when Christmas Eve is celebrated in the evening, and the next day comes great holiday Christmas.

Publishing house "Amphora"

The Nutcracker, E.T.A. Hoffman

Well, how can we feel the approach of the New Year without this fairy tale? About a girl who was not afraid to fight the forces of evil and was rewarded for this in the most miraculous way - a meeting with a real prince. Amazingly colorful story for many years does not cease to inspire both children and adults.

« Planet of Christmas Trees, J. Rodari

An Italian boy, Marco, was once given a rocking horse for New Years. At first, Marco was angry with his grandfather for such a gift - after all, he considered himself quite an adult! If only he knew that thanks to this toy he would be on another planet! Instead of a taxi, wooden horses drive around here, toys from shops can be taken for free and every day is New Year's! The weather is always beautiful, and if it suddenly starts to rain, then only from sweets!

Publishing house "Rosmen"

"Christmas stories» , Ch. Dickens

Once Charles Dickens was told about the monstrous conditions in which English workers, including children, had to work. The writer was so amazed that he decided to write a series of stories - a kind of sermons, in an entertaining way moving people to compassion, to actively improve the lot of the poor, to the moral "correction of the rich." All stories are imbued with the same Christmas spirit - attention and love for one's neighbor.

"The Night Before Christmas", N.V. Gogol

Well, what is there to say? A bright, sincere, passionate, funny story, familiar to everyone since childhood, about the obstinate Oksana, her admirer Vakula, the beautiful Solokha and the naive trait, whom an ordinary blacksmith was able to cheat ... And all this is written in such a charming style that you will not find anywhere else and from which immediately , from the first words - the mood is the same, magical.

"Summer of the Lord", I. Shmelev

The well-known book reviewer Evgenia Shaffert writes about the Christmas chapter of this book: “... You will not find such a poetic description of Russian holidays and traditions anywhere else. I would start my “Christmas reading” with the chapter on Christmas from the book by I. Shmelev: Before Christmas, three days, in the markets, in the squares, there is a forest of Christmas trees. And what trees! This goodness in Russia as much as you want. Not like here - stamens. At our Christmas tree ... as it warms up, spreads its paws, - a thicket. There used to be a forest on Theater Square. They stand in the snow. And the snow will fall - lost the way! Guys, in sheepskin coats, as in the forest. People walk, choose. Dogs in Christmas trees are like wolves, right. Bonfires are burning, get warm. Smoke pillars. Sbitenshchiki walk, go round in the trees

« Bible for children. gospel stories»

Maya Kucherskaya, a well-known Orthodox journalist and writer, wonderfully and simply retells New Testament stories for children. One of the stories is dedicated to the birth of the baby Christ into the world. Warm and useful family reading, even if you are not religious, but just want to tell your child about the essence of Christianity and introduce him to the main Christian stories.

"Little Women", L. Alcott

The novel by American writer Louisa May Alcott is still one of the most popular "books for girls". XIX century. Small American town. Christmas Eve. Mrs. March is sitting by the fireplace surrounded by four daughters and reading a letter ... For Meg, Jo, Beth, Amy and their mother, this is the first Christmas they celebrate without a father - at this time he is fighting at the front. But, despite all the difficulties of the war period, the constant lack of money, illness, the March family tries to maintain good spirits and support each other in everything. A wonderful warm book about the lives of four sisters.

"Christmas", M. Aldashin

The bewitchingly beautiful and touching cartoon by Mikhail Aldashin "Christmas", which deservedly received many festival prizes, was once published as an album - and it turned out great. The plot is based on the gospel text about the birth of Christ. Illustrations are organically intertwined with interesting, concise and accessible texts, with the help of which the author warmly talks about this great holiday. The second part of the book contains the maestro's story about the work on the film, sketches, sketches and photographs. Well, just a gift!

Publishing House "Favorite Book"

"Silver blizzard. Big Book of Christmas Works»

Carefully collected and published under a wonderful cover, the Christmas collection “Silver Blizzard” includes the best stories, stories and poems by Russian and foreign authors about the Christmas holiday. Among the authors are Nabokov, Bunin, Chekhov, Pasternak, Brodsky and the not so famous Nikiforov-Volgin, whose modest but touching story gave the name to the entire collection.

Publishing house "Nikeya"

« New Year and Christmas book»

And one more "winter", beautifully published gift collection. Twelve fairy tales from different peoples and different times about the main winter holidays - Christmas and New Year.

Publishing house "Mann, Ivanov and Ferber"

"The secrets of plasticine. Christmas Holiday, R. Oren

The author of this book is the world-renowned cartoonist and educator Roni Oren. In each of his books, he shows in detail the process of creating various characters from plasticine. In this issue, he expands the theme of Christmas and prepares a whole nativity scene with you! Take a book, a couple of boxes of plasticine, and a warm family evening is guaranteed. Very understandable and illustrative explanations, a nice result (even for those who never considered themselves a talent in modeling) and, of course, an excellent reason to talk with children about the history of the holiday.

Makhaon Publishing House

"Mr. Toomey's Christmas Miracle", S. Wojciechowski

A true Christmas tale of love, redemption and hope. Mr. Toomey is a wood carver who lost his family and is grieving for them. But on the eve of the holiday, of course, a miracle happens to him - he finds two close people. “Once upon a time, on the very first Christmas, a baby appeared who brought light and hope into the world. So I decided to write about a child who entered the life of an unfortunate person and brought the light of hope into this lonely life, ”says the author.

Ripol-Classic Publishing House

"Stories about Franz and Christmas", K. Nestlinger

There are adults who are terribly fond of surprises. Everything would be fine, but with such it is absolutely impossible to make New Year's wishes! On the eve of the holiday, the protagonist of the well-known series about Franz suffers that again you won’t get the desired gift from your mother - there will definitely be something and not that ... And Franz decides to take matters into his own hands.

Publishing house "CompassGid"

"Christmas in the Forest", W. Stark

Christmas is celebrated not only by people, but also by gnomes, and even animals. The grouchy lonely dwarf Buka hung out his mittens to dry. But here's the problem - the wind carried them away. And when Buka shook his fist at the wind, the mischief-maker tore off his red cap as well. Can you catch them now? Two rabbits, Nina and Nika, find among the leaves and moss a red hat blown away by the wind from a gnome who always comes to the forest at Christmas. But what is Christmas? Squirrels and crows said that Christmas is the most joyful holiday. No one knows how to meet him, but everyone is looking forward to him and preparing for the arrival of the gnome: they compose a joyful gnome song, bake goodies, tidy up the house, prepare gifts and dress up a tree in the forest from all sorts of things ...

Publishing house "Scooter"

« Christmas in Petson's house, S. Nurdqvist

It is impossible to resist the fans of the artist and storyteller Sven Nurdqvist! "Christmas at Petson's House" tells about the adventures of two characters beloved by children - the lonely old man Petson and his kitten Findus. On Christmas Eve, Petson and Findus have a lot to do, but Petson accidentally sprained his leg. Who will decorate the Christmas tree and prepare a festive dinner?

Publishing house "White Crow"

What to read in winter? Books about winter. Books with a winter mood. Books / stories about magical New Year's miracles. The best New Year and Christmas books to feel the holiday. Holiday stories. Books for cozy winter evenings. Magic New Year's books, fairy tales and stories.

Reading in the winter is like nothing else. Fluffy snow outside the window, crackling firewood in the fireplace, a cozy rocking chair, hot tea and... We offer you books that will help you plunge into the winter atmosphere and tune in to the expectant-holiday mood.

❄ There is no more joyful holiday than Christmas, when any person expects that a miracle will also happen in his life, the most incredible dreams will come true! A holiday that gave people hope and salvation! The theme of Christmas did not go unnoticed in Russian literature, and a whole tradition of Christmas and Christmas stories has developed. These are stories that are good to read on a January winter evening, covered with a warm blanket and brewing a cup of hot chocolate. Perfectly inspires before Christmas and sets in a Special Christmas Spirit. Heartfelt stories :)

❄ "A Christmas Carol in Prose" became a sensation after its first publication, influencing our Christmas traditions. This is a story-parable about the rebirth of the miser and misanthrope Scrooge, in which the writer, with the help of fantastic images of Christmas Spirits, shows his hero the only way to salvation - to do good to people. One day, the spirit of Marley's deceased companion appeared to Scrooge. The author skillfully describes the appearance of this spirit in such a way that the blood freezes in the veins not only of the protagonist, but also of the reader.
❄ A soulful book in the style of good old England, but in a modern way. Cozy and warm.A wonderful story from a modern English writer.An amazingly kind, touching novel that will give everyone a sense of celebration and a real New Year's mood. Five not too happy people, by the will of circumstances, find themselves in the same house in the north of Scotland. Rosamund Pilcher talks about her characters with a warm, kind smile, and the reader begins to believe that the approaching Christmas will surely bring wonderful changes to their lives. The novel by the famous English writer is distinguished by lyricism, gentle humor and unexpected plot twists.

❄ 1980 Aaron and Molar have long ceased to believe in the existence of Santa Claus, but year after year the parents insist that the whole family go to the mall, where the boys can give Santa a list of gifts they want to receive for Christmas. As they wait their turn, Aaron and Molar write down all the toys they can imagine on slips of paper. But Santa Claus offers the children to give them something for Christmas that they never even dreamed of, but in return asks for help to perform a real Christmas miracle.

❄ A wonderful Christmas story for the soul, when you don’t want serious books, but only one desire is to rest your heart and get a lost, unique feeling of an approaching miracle. This magical story, designed to become a real antidepressant, is thoroughly saturated with the smells of delicious pastries, full of atmospheric New Year's lights and felt by the romantic emotions of the main characters.

❄ Seattle, 1933. Single mother Vera Ray kisses her young son before going to bed and leaves for a night job at a local hotel. In the morning, she discovers that the city is covered in snow, and her son has disappeared. Not far from home, in a snowdrift, Vera finds her beloved teddy bear, Daniel, but there are no more footprints on the icy road.Seattle today. Reporter Claire Aldridge writes an essay about the May Day snowstorm that paralyzed the city. It turns out that a similar bad weather already happened almost eighty years ago, and during a snowfall a boy disappeared. Claire unenthusiastically takes on this case, but soon discovers that the story of Vera Ray is intertwined with her own destiny in the most unexpected way...

❄ June Andersen inherits the legendary Bluebird bookstore from Aunt Ruby. She soon discovers unique letters among the books, evidence of a long friendship between Ruby and the famous writer Margaret Wise Brown. Since the store is on the verge of ruin, June decides to save it with a find. She turns to Gavin, the owner of a restaurant next door to the Blue Bird, for help. It seems that together they have a chance, but June has a lot of secrets, and trusting Gavin is not so easy.

Daniel Glattauer "The Christmas Dog"

Max hates Christmas, and therefore decided to flee the holiday by flying to the Maldives. But his dog Kurt, who has no one to leave with, interferes with his brilliant plan. Kurt is unpretentious and sleeps more than he is awake. The favorite state of the dog is the state of absolute rest.

Catherine, whom Max met on the Internet, turns thirty on Christmas Eve. Her mother and father cannot accept the fact that her daughter has not yet found a chosen one: preferably an elegant, intelligent man, from a good family, with good income, good taste and good manners - in general, a real gentleman. And then Kurt appears on the horizon with his strange owner ...

John Grisham "Christmas with the Losers"

In many families, events occur when a holiday is no longer a holiday. I do not want fun and feasts, even gifts. One desire - to hide from the hustle and bustle. So the Krankov family lost its former meaning in new year holidays when their only daughter left. The husband calculated that they spend too much money to have fun. So he invited his wife to take a cruise. It should be both more fun and cheaper. However, things don't go as planned. An interesting idea turns into a test. After all, no one is allowed to break established traditions! And the Cranks didn't buy a tree, donate to charities, don't have their own party. And most importantly, they didn’t put a snowman on their roof! Do you think it's so easy to break the once good-neighborly close little world? But, reader, don't worry! Everything will end well, because it's a magical Christmas!

Agatha Christie "The Nativity of Hercule Poirot"

England 20th century. A criminal who has committed an absurdly cruel, bloody, Americanized crime must be caught and punished doubly for this. Poirot successfully unravels this mysterious murder.

Christopher Moore "The Stupidest Angel"

Meet Christopher Moore's humorous masterpiece - the best way to cheer up. The glorious town of Coniferous Bay is buzzing with joyful anticipation of the imminent Christmas. And only the unfortunate divorcee Lena does not rejoice at the holiday - she is annoyed by her ex-husband, a petty and despicable scoundrel who had the audacity to dress up as Santa Claus and once again pester her. In a scuffle, the poor woman accidentally knocked down the scoundrel with a shovel. Deciding that Christmas was cancelled, little Josh prayed for a miracle to save Christmas. And a miracle was in response to him - the blond archangel was sent to Coniferous Bay on a mission to save Christmas. A riot of fantasy and a concentration of jokes, the faint of heart should refrain from reading, and the rest are welcome to the Christmas chaos!

If you want to get into the Christmas spirit, check out this book with wonderful illustrations by Lynch. You will definitely experience the magic of this holiday for yourself. Woodcarver Toomey lost his wife and son some time ago. Since then, he avoids communication and does not experience joy in life. But one day there was a knock at his house. The widow and her son were asked to carve holiday figurines. The owner had no idea how it would all end ...

“Your sheep, of course, is beautiful, but my sheep was also happy ... After all, they were next to baby Jesus, and this is such happiness for them!” Mr. Toomey makes a living doing woodcarving. Once he smiled and was happy. But after the loss of his wife and son, he became gloomy and received the nickname Mr. Gloomy from the neighborhood children. Once, on Christmas Eve, a widow with a young son knocked on his door and asked him to make Christmas figurines for them, since they had lost theirs after the move. It would seem that there is nothing wrong with an ordinary order, but gradually this work is changing Mr. Toomey ...

The young Evans family, who have settled in the old mansion of the wealthy widow Maryann Parkin, discover a lot of amazing things in their new place. Ancient copies of the Bible, paintings in expensive frames, a box with mysterious letters to an unknown addressee. The case takes place around Christmas, Richard, Keri and their four-year-old daughter Jenny, together with the hostess of the house, are preparing to celebrate the holiday, when suddenly a terrible thing happens - Marianne dies. But before her death, she reveals to the Evans a great secret, before which even the bitterness of loss fades...

Richard Paul Evans wrote this story solely for himself, his family and his circle of friends. Wrote and published at his own expense in the amount of 20 copies. The book went from hand to hand, and then the calls began. Friends and strangers called the author and thanked him for the "Christmas Box". Then booksellers started calling asking if they could order copies to sell because they were asking for the book. Thus began the world procession of the novel by Richard Paul Evans, and soon its author became one of the leading and sought-after writers of our time.

About "Henry" Gift of the Magi "

On Christmas Eve, a young married couple, Jim and Della Dillingham, discover they don't have enough money to buy each other's holiday gifts. Della decides to sell her luxurious chestnut locks (part of their "treasures that were their pride") and buy her husband a platinum chain for his gold watch (the second "treasure").

G. Joyce “As if fairy tale". This is literally a magical novel from the master of British magical realism. The 16-year-old heroine went for a walk in the forest and disappeared without a trace. Relatives, neighbors and the police searched for her for a long time, but did not find the slightest trace of the girl. It takes 20 years after her disappearance, when suddenly ... she returns. The girl has not changed at all, as if she has not aged a day. And those stories that she tells can not be called otherwise than fairy tales.

A. Vargo "Ice". How fun it is to race through the snowy taiga on fast snowmobiles! Young people are not at all afraid of the dense shadows of trees, and deep snow drifts, and pitch darkness around, and even the fact that the road suddenly disappeared somewhere, and the mobile phone does not find the network. And even when the engines stalled, the guys and girls did not lose their presence of mind and went through the gloomy forest on foot. But what kind of hut got in their way? Forester's house? Shelter? Whatever it is, you can spend the night here, fortunately, there was a stove and even firewood in the house. Who dares to offend such healthy, cheerful and courageous young people? You can learn about it by reading this exciting book.

S.E. Allen "Sugar Queen". Josie lives in a small resort town with her domineering mother and dreams of travel and adventure. She is painfully shy, she has no friends, and the only thing that somehow brightens up her gray life is reading romance novels and sweets, which she secretly absorbs from her mother in incredible quantities, hiding in her dressing room. One fine day, looking into her hiding place for another portion of sweets, she discovers there a local brawler and troublemaker. And from that moment Josie's measured life turns into a dizzying series of incredible events, some of which can only be explained by magic...

Susan Wiggs, "Recipe for Happiness"

Jenny Maeski lost everything that winter night. Her house burned down, and the fire destroyed photographs, diaries and, the saddest thing, old grandmother's recipes. For many years, Jenny owned a bakery in Avalon and wrote a food column for the local paper, dreaming of writing a book someday. Police Chief Rourke McKnight sheltered her in his home. Jenny was once engaged to his best friend. All these years, there was a mutual attraction between her and Rourke, but according to an unspoken rule, they tried to avoid each other. As if fate itself told Jenny that it was time to part with the past and then the dreams of a writing career and a happy family could become a reality.

Neil Gaiman, "Odd and the Frost Giants"

A new fairy tale for children and teenagers (which adults will certainly enjoy) from the famous writer Neil Gaiman, author of Coraline, Anansi's Sons and Stardust, is published for the first time in Russian.

If you like wandering around worlds so similar to ours, but in which ancient magic has been preserved and where a young hero, leaving the threshold of the house, goes straight into Adventure - this book is for you.

It has a gripping plot, depth, subtlety, humor, evil sorcery and good spells, talking animals and a world waiting for spring. The strange boy Odd will guide you through the most amazing places of the fabulous North, so similar to the Scandinavian myth...

Shane Jones, "Staying Over the Winter"

This book was originally published in a tiny print run of 500 copies by a small art house publishing house.

Unexpectedly, she made a literary sensation.

The critics who wrote dozens of rave reviews of Shane Jones' instant cult novel We Stay for the Winter compare it to the works of Italo Calvino, Gabriel García Márquez and Neil Gaiman.

"The Legend of the Christmas Rose" by Selma Lagerlöf
Be sure to read the book to your children. Be sure to read the book if you are a believer. If you believe in miracles, goodness, love. This is a story about miracles. Events take place in the Geingen Forest. Allegedly, on a holy winter night, a beautiful flower bloomed there - the Christmas rose. Is it true? And so Abbot John gathered roots in a magical forest. And about a miracle! A rose grew out of them ...

The Big Book of Christmas Miracles
If you want to get better acquainted with the traditions of celebrating Christmas time, with New Year's customs of different nationalities, then read this book. She combined poems, epics, stories about Christmas. The book is richly illustrated with reproductions of paintings by the best artists of the 19th century. The book will create a feeling of a miracle - as if ancient traditions have come down to us from time immemorial.

Mom sends Anyuta to the store for groceries for the New Year's table. On the way, the girl enters a clothing store and tries on a fabulously beautiful dress. With the help of the magic of the Snow Maiden, Anya passes through the mirror and finds herself in a real fairy tale, where her double, Princess Rosalie, asks for help...

There was only one day left until the new year. There was no mood. Anyuta looked at herself in the mirror and turned away. And why is she not like the rest of her classmates? Every single girl in their class was slim with trendy haircuts, could afford nice clothes, and was liked by the boys. And only she, against their background, seemed to herself shapeless, awkward and ugly. And the worst part was that everyone else felt the same way. Carping, joking, ridicule rained down on the fifteen-year-old girl in abundance. It was terribly embarrassing and bitter. Artyom, the only boy from all over the school who she liked and treated her more or less like a human, met with a girl from their class - Irka Grebeshkova. Looking at how he escorts her home every day and carefully carries a fashionable girl's bag, Anyuta wanted to cry. And it had to happen that her mother and parents of Artyom and Irka became friends with families and often gathered at joint feasts. Sitting at the table, Irka went out of her way to show Anyuta how carefully Artyom treats her.
The only person who could support Anyuta in all her misfortunes was her mother, but ... The girl's mother was a young thirty-seven-year-old woman of a rather attractive appearance. She divorced her husband, and not so long ago a new gentleman appeared in her life. Peter. He was a tall man, economic, non-drinker, behind whom one could feel like behind a stone wall. Unfortunately, this stone wall has grown between mother and daughter. Anyuta offendedly declared that her mother did not pay attention to her at all. It seemed to Svetlana that her daughter was just a transitional age with his characteristic egoism. Relations deteriorated more and more, and the wall became thicker every day.
- Anya, I'm missing something for the New Year's table, - Svetlana entered the room and handed the money to her daughter, - here, please go to the store and buy mayonnaise, cinnamon and cream.
Anyuta, without saying a word, went to get dressed. It’s always like this, Anya this, Anya that, but as for Anya, then there is no time, then money. Walking along the snow-covered street, the girl reflected on her difficult fate. But all she needs is just to become like everyone else, not to stand out from the crowd.
Snow fell softly from the sky. Snowflakes danced in the air, and, circling, fell on the girl's eyelashes. Shops sparkled with colorful garlands. Anya's attention was suddenly attracted by a beautiful New Year's board, exhibited in one of the windows. It was black, embroidered with lurex thread, with gold sleeves and gold bows along the hem. Oh, if only she had such a dress! Anna smiled dreamily. Yielding to temptation, she pulled the shop door open and entered. The bell rang, and the girl found herself in a warm room, smelling of pine needles and tangerines. Here, in the corner, stood a Christmas tree, richly decorated with beads and toys, around it a garland shimmered with blue lights. How great it is here!
Anyuta went up to the dress and looked at him again. Mom would never buy her that. She sighed heavily.
- Do you want to try it on? It's just your size, - someone's melodious voice came from behind.
Turning around, Anya saw the Snow Maiden. Of course, the Snow Maiden was not real, apparently, the store owner decided to show off his originality and dressed up all the staff in New Year's clothes.
"No thanks," the girl shook her head. - I just went to look.
- This dress will suit you very much, - the Snow Maiden insisted, - and your style. Try on.
"I don't think you should," she refused again.
- Why not? They don’t take money for trying on, - the girl said, removing the dress from the mannequin. Lifting it up, she stated: The size is exactly yours.
“It’s quite narrow,” Anya objected.
“And here there is lacing at the back,” the Snow Maiden smiled slyly and pulled her by the hand to the fitting room. "Come in, get undressed, I'll help you."
“Well, okay,” Anyuta thought, “since she insists so, why not try it on? At least see how it sits on it. Before she had time to pull on her dress, the curtain moved aside, and the Snow Maiden began deftly lacing it up. Adjusting her belt, she pointed to the mirror.
- Well, I told you! Your style and size! And if you let your hair down ... - with a deft movement, the Snow Maiden pulled off the elastic band intercepting the hair, and they scattered over her shoulders. - Look!
Anya looked at herself in the mirror. She looked really pretty. The black color made her visually thinner, the gold sparkled richly on the sleeves and hem, her loose hair made her completely pretty. She smiled at her reflection. Ah, if Artyom had seen her in this dress... Before she had time to think about it, the Snow Maiden appeared in the mirror from behind. Hugging the girl by the shoulders, she lightly pushed her ... right into the mirror. Surprised, Anyuta put her hands forward in order to maintain support, but the mirror, instead of keeping her from falling with its hardness, suddenly melted, turning into liquid silver, and the girl, passing through it, flew somewhere down. It was dark all around. She rushed down the stairs, remembering Alice, who had fallen down the rabbit hole, out of place. Falling on something soft, she lost consciousness.

Wake up, wake up, - someone was pulling at her sleeve, forcing her to open her eyes. Anya slowly sat up and looked around. Sitting next to her was a girl who resembled her like two peas in a pod. The girl was wearing the same dress that Anyuta tried on in the store, her hair was also loose, a small crown shimmered like precious stones on her head, which left no doubt about who she sees in front of her. And yet Anna asked:
- Who are you? Where I am?
- Everything worked out! Happened! The princess clapped her hands happily. – My name is Rosalie, I am the princess of this kingdom. My evil stepmother Grisella wants to get rid of me in order to take over the throne. I asked the Snow Maiden to send someone to help me, and she chose you.
Anya listened and batted her eyelashes in surprise. Princess, kingdom, evil stepmother. Turning her head from side to side, she saw that she was in some strange room where there was no furniture at all, but there was a large oval framed mirror in which you could see yourself from head to toe. It is impossible to believe that she found herself ...
- Am I in a fairy tale? she finally asked.
- Well, of course! I'm so glad it's you. You are brave, smart, strong, resourceful and beautiful.
- I? Anyuta looked at Rosalie incredulously. Although the princess looked exactly the same as her, there were still some differences. Her eyes were lined like a doll's, and her eyelashes were longer than Anya's, her hair was curled into curls, and in general she looked just fine.
- Yes! I even envy you a little and want to become like you.
- Do you want to be like me? - the girl was completely taken aback.
- Uh-huh, - Rosalie nodded, - I hope that you will teach me to be the same fearless, brave, smart, kind ...
- But what makes you think that I have all these qualities? Anyuta interrupted the princess.
“I know,” Rosalie smiled slyly. - After all, I asked the Snow Maiden to send me just such an assistant, and she chose you.
- But how can I help you?
- Grisella came up with some kind of test for me, if I do not pass it, then I will lose the throne. She's tried several times to get rid of me. If you help me, she can't handle the two of us. Just look how similar we are! Like sisters.
- You are much more beautiful than me, - the girl objected, - you have big eyes, long eyelashes, shiny hair ...
"Stop," Rosalie laughed. - It's all called one magic word - cosmetics.
“I thought princesses didn’t need her.
- Very necessary. Come on, we need to get back to my room before anyone sees that I'm not alone now.
- Where are we? In your palace?
“Yes, and this is the room that my stepmother doesn’t allow anyone to enter because her magic mirror is hidden here.” But I have this, - the princess pulled out a piece of some fabric from her pocket.
- What is it?
- Invisible hat. I begged her as a gift from Santa Claus last year.
Anyuta would never have thought that an invisibility hat could look like the most ordinary hat.
- Look, - Rosalie put it on her head and disappeared into the air, - great, right?
- Blimey!
“Now let’s get out of here,” the princess said, reappearing.
Hand in hand, they left the room and closed the door tightly behind them. In the dark corridor, several torches were burning almost under the very ceiling. The girls stepped carefully so that their steps would not echo. Suddenly they heard a strange sound of clanking iron.
- What is it? Ann asked softly.
"It's Crack," Rosalie replied.
- Crack?
- Yes. When my father died, Crack appeared, and now he accompanies Grizella everywhere, kowtows to her, praises, and she showers him with expensive gifts for this. They want to rule my kingdom together.
The footsteps were silent. The girls continued on their way.
- How far can we go?
- Not anymore, now you need to go up to the outermost tower.
Counting the steps, they climbed a spiral staircase and found themselves at the door to some closet.
- Is it your room? Anyuta was surprised. “I thought princesses lived in luxurious apartments.
The room was small. There was only a bed, a wardrobe, and a tiny dressing table with a mirror.
“I lived in luxurious apartments,” Rosalie sighed, “until Grisella evicted me from there. Now she has a rich bedroom, and I live here. But that's even better.
- Why?
- She rarely comes here, so she will not see that you are helping me.
- I would not hope for that, - Anya said carefully, - we are still different with you. As soon as she sees me, she will immediately guess everything.
- And here it does not guess. Get in!
Having seated Anyuta on her bed, Rosalie combed her hair and curled it into curls, tinted her eyes and eyelashes, from a large box standing on the dressing table, the princess took out another sparkling crown and placed it on the girl’s head.
- Look, - she led her to the mirror. Anya gasped. Yes, now their own mother will not distinguish them from Rosalie. The same dresses, the same hair, the same make-up eyes, and both with crowns on their heads.
- Awesome!
There was a knock at the door. Both girls winced.
- Rosalie, dear, with whom are you there? - they heard someone's nasty voice.
- This is Crack, - the princess whispered, throwing an invisibility cap on Anyuta, - hide for now.
"No one," Rosalie answered, opening the door. - I'm talking to myself.
A tall, thin man with an unpleasant face and a thin mustache entered the room. He moved as if he were clowning or showing some incomprehensible pantomime.
- Truth? he asked, sniffing something, as if some foreign smell could point him to an uninvited guest. "And there's no one here?" He suddenly opened the wardrobe and took a quick look at all the dresses of the princess. Anyuta, pressed against the wall, was afraid even to breathe. - Actually, no one. Okay dear. Grisella is waiting for you on the big balcony, she wants to tell you something.
- I'll come right away, Crack, - answered Rosalie, - just powder my nose.
“Oh, those things of yours,” he grimaced and walked away, clicking his heels.
When the door closed behind him, Anyuta breathed a sigh of relief.
It's a good thing he didn't see me! she whispered.
- Yes, where to him, - Rosalie grinned. “He’s always sniffing around, looking around, and he never finds anything.
- Will you go to your stepmother?
- No, you will go instead of me.
- I? But I don't even know what she looks like! ' Anna exclaimed in shock.
- You can't confuse her with anyone. She is very beautiful and very evil. Don't be afraid, I'll be there and tell you," she said, putting on her invisibility cap. - Let's go to.
- Okay, but I can't vouch for the result.
- You will succeed, you are brave and you can fight back.
- Show me the way.
Rosalie whispered in Anyuta's ear where to turn, and from the side it even gave the impression that she knew where she was going.
On the balcony, at the railing, a young beautiful woman in a red dress with a high collar was waiting for her, a precious necklace shimmered in different colors around the neck of a stranger, and on her head was a high crown.
- Call her "Your Majesty," whispered Anna in Rosalie's ear, "and bow."
- Your Majesty, - the girl approached Grisella and bowed in an awkward bow. The princess did not teach her to curtsy.
“I see that you are still bad with bows,” the stern beauty said arrogantly. So Rosalie isn't good at that either.
“Yes, Your Majesty,” Anyuta agreed meekly.
"All right," Grisella smiled condescendingly. “I decided to forget all our differences with you,” she began, “I always wished you only the best, you know that. And although you were a completely unbearable child, impudent, ill-mannered, rude, I endured everything for the sake of your father. I spent so much effort and patience on your upbringing, Rosalie! Grisella raised her hands and shook them in the air. - Of course, I did not manage to achieve perfection in my educational work, but the piece of clay that I got did not lend itself well to modeling.
Anyuta silently listened to this passionately pathetic monologue. “What a kind-hearted woman,” she thought ironically, “in every word she praises herself and insults Rosalie.”
- I spent the best years of my life on your upbringing! And never asked for thanks for it! And you constantly resisted me, did not want to assimilate good manners, which is why I had to come up with a special challenge for you. You probably think that I did this out of some mischief, but, in fact, it's for your own good! You must be worthy of the throne you claim.
Anna gritted her teeth. She wanted more and more to answer Grisella that Rosalie this throne belongs by birthright. Just think, she hasn’t been here even a day, but she has already begun to think in terms of a fairy tale!
- My dear Rosalie, - Grisella said after a short pause, - let's forget everything that was and try to become friends. What do you say?
- I agree, Your Majesty, - said Anyuta, surprised.
- Truth? Grisella rejoiced. - Then, as a sign of our reconciliation, I want to give you this apple, - as if by magic, a large red apple appeared in Grisella's hands.
What a twist! Anyuta simply could not believe her eyes. Grizella decided to poison her, like the evil stepmother poisoned Snow White? Does she think she doesn't know this story?
- Take it! she hurried her.
Reaching out her hand, she took the apple and looked at the evil queen. She certainly won't eat it!
“Look, what a wonderful ripe apple,” Grisella continued meanwhile. - Let's you take a bite from the red side, and I - from the green, this will mean that all grievances between us are forgotten.
Yes, stop. Anyuta recalled that in one version of the fairy tale about Snow White it was said that the apple was poisoned only on the red side.
- You are a queen, and I am only a princess, - Anyuta said, biting off the apple from the green side, - therefore, I leave the red side to you as a token of my respect, - and she handed the apple to Grisella. She glared at the girl angrily, and then slowly took the apple.
Damn girl! Grisella had already come up with several options for how to explain her death to everyone. And now she was driven into her own trap. She had spent so much eloquence explaining why Rosalie needed to eat the poisoned apple that now it was too late to refuse to taste it herself.
“Of course, dear,” Grisella gritted through her teeth, coming up to the railing and leaning over. - What is that noise?
“I can’t hear anything,” Anyuta shrugged her shoulders.
- Oh, how awkward I am! the queen exclaimed, deliberately dropping an apple from the balcony. It's a pity that it fell, but it's just an apple. Are you not mad at me?
“Of course not, Your Majesty,” the girl replied.
- Well, that's nice, - Grisella smiled with her lips. - Tomorrow there will be a ball in the palace, all the nearest kings and princes, as well as all our courtiers and just noble people are invited to it. I will send you a dress.
- Thanks.
- Go to your room, child, I'm tired.
As soon as Anyuta was out of sight, Grisella, in a rage, tore the crown from her head and threw it on the floor.
- I hate it! I hate!
- Darling, what happened? - Crack appeared on the balcony, as if he had been waiting all this time around the corner.
She didn't take a bite of the apple!
- But why?
Because she bit him!
“You just said she didn’t take a bite,” Crack looked at Grizella in confusion.
- Do not make me angry! She leaned towards him menacingly. - She bit off the apple on the other side, not poisoned! And she left me poisoned!
- And you ate it? Crack stared at her in horror.
- Lord, why are you so ... stupid, - almost shouted Grisella but restrained herself. I dropped an apple from the balcony.
- Phew, - Crack exhaled with relief and looked at the queen in admiration. - How smart you are.
- Smart! Some girl just got me wrapped around her finger!
Well, it just happened by chance. Darling, why do you absolutely want to kill her yourself? Leave it to your aunt Brangold, she is an experienced witch.
- I just want to make sure! If she returns safe and sound from Brangold, then we will lose the throne!
“If that happens and she comes back, you can always say that Rosalie didn’t pass the test. You have an amazing gift of persuasion, everyone will support you and agree with you that the girl cannot be trusted to run the state.
- OK let's see. I prefer to be certain.

As soon as Anya entered the closet of the outer tower, Rosalie took off her invisibility cap.
- Ah, Anyuta! - she exclaimed. I just admire your ingenuity! I wouldn't even have guessed that the apple was poisoned. Grisella is so treacherous, but she knows how to pretend to be a poor sheep.
"Don't you know the story of Snow White?" – the girl was surprised. “After all, her stepmother also tried to poison her with an apple.
- No, we do not know what happens in other fairy tales.
"How did Grisella know about this then?"
- She has a magic mirror through which you got here. She can see whatever she wants.
By the way, how can I get back? After all, tomorrow is the new year.
- It's New Year in your world tomorrow, - Rosalie smiled, - but in our fairy tale it will come only in a week. On New Year's Eve I will be sixteen years old, and Grisella will have to give me the throne. Don't worry, you will definitely come back.
- And my birthday is the twenty-second of December. I thought you and I were born on the same day. How then to explain our similarity?
- It's just that every good person must have a double who lives in a fairy tale, and once every hundred years a New Year's miracle happens - we meet. I was lucky that for this century no one has yet met his double from the world of people, so I persuaded the Snow Maiden to give me such a New Year's gift.
- Understandably. I didn’t even think that your stepmother would turn out to be so insidious, - Anyuta returned to the conversation about the poisoned apple. “And how would she then explain your death?”
She's not capable of that yet. She probably had everything prepared and invented. Tomorrow there will be a ball at the palace, and I suspect that she will try to kill me again.
- In front of everyone?
- Oh, if you knew her the way I do, you wouldn't be surprised.
The next day, after dinner, there was a knock on Rosalie's closet.
- Yes, who is there? the princess shouted, and Anyuta, meanwhile, quickly put on her invisibility cap.
- It's me, Rosalie, - they heard Crack's obsequious voice. - Open it for me. I brought you a gift from your stepmother Grisella, - he handed the princess a large box, - this dress, it was made especially for today's ball. See how the queen takes care of you.
- Yes, Crack, thank you.
“And this is a gift from me,” he handed her a smaller box, “at this ball you should be the most beautiful,” he grinned his nasty smile.
- Of course, Crack, thank you for your concern.
“Don’t be late, dear, Artius will be at this ball too,” he squinted slyly and looked at the princess.
When the door closed behind him, Anyuta threw off her invisibility cap.
Who is Artius? she asked.
“Artius,” Rosalie said, her cheeks turning a soft blush, “this is the son of the neighboring king.” I really like him.
- And the boy I like is called Artyom, - Anyuta sighed, - but I have no chance.
- Why? Rosalie exclaimed.
- He is so handsome, - Anyuta smiled, remembering Artyom with his clean, clear eyes, - and I ...
- You are beautiful too! Even more! You and I are doubles, I am a princess, and princesses cannot be ugly.
- Let's look at the dress, - Anyuta translated the conversation to another topic.
Opening the box, the girls gasped in surprise - the dress was very beautiful. Anya held out her hand to him, but Rosalie caught it.
- Wait, what if the dress is also poisoned?
"I don't think so, your stepmother isn't really that smart." With the help of her magic mirror, she looks into other fairy tales, but she herself cannot think of anything. I have never heard of such a fairy tale, where the princess was given a poisoned dress.
“There’s definitely some trickery going on here. But how can you guess what it is?
“I don’t know,” Anyuta thought. “Let’s look at Crack’s gift.”
- Let's.
Opening the box, the girls saw stunningly beautiful crystal shoes.
- I know! I know! Anya clapped her hands happily. - It's a Cinderella story. With the chime of the clock, the dress will turn into tatters, but why should she?
“She wants to embarrass me in front of everyone,” Rosalie replied. “You heard what Crack said, Artius will be at the ball. Can you imagine what a shame it would be if I found myself in front of everyone in tattered dirty rags!
“Then you and I will have a lot of work today,” Anyuta smiled enigmatically.
- Did you think of something?
"Yes," Anya quickly whispered her plan into Rosalie's ear.
"I can imagine Grisella's face," laughed the princess.
- Can you get everything?
"I can," Rosalie said confidently.

Standing aside, with a cap of invisibility on her head, Anyuta watched the luxurious ball. Who was not there: ladies in sparkling dresses, barons, counts with high wigs on their heads, kings of neighboring powers and princes in lace frills and even hussars in red uniforms.
Grisella sat on the throne. Next to her bustled, as always Crack. Anya winced. How vile, vicious and envious they are both!
Rosalie appeared among the crowd, and the guests began to greet her joyfully. The princess smiled and politely answered everyone. Anyuta looked at Grizella - her face was contorted with anger. Whether it will be when she realizes that her plan with the dress failed.
Turning away from Grisella, Anya searched for the princess with her eyes. She danced with a young man who looked so much like Artyom that the girl's mouth opened in surprise. It's good that she has an invisibility hat on, and no one sees her. Prince Artius looked at Rosalie with admiration. But if he admires her, then there are certainly qualities in Anyuta herself that Artyom could admire. From this thought, her heart beat faster and suddenly she wanted to find herself at home, where they all gathered at the New Year's table. And if there were no malicious Irka Grebeshkova...
In fun and dancing, time flew by unnoticed. Anyuta also danced, although no one saw her. She would never have thought that dancing could be so great. She looked at the dressed-up ladies and gentlemen and copied their movements. The girl had never danced, but she was surprised to find that even the most complex waltz movements succeeded.
Grisella kept looking at her watch and grinning wickedly. The arrows were approaching twelve. The main thing is that Rosalia should be somewhere close to Artius at that moment, then her shame will be complete. The princess is called! All torn and dirty. How wonderful that Grisella has a magic mirror, and with its help she can look into other fairy tales!
Antyuta also looked at her watch. It's about to strike twelve. Grisella suddenly rose from her throne and addressed everyone present:
“Gentlemen, let’s welcome the heiress of this kingdom, Princess Rosalie!”
There was applause. The guests parted, forming a small circle around the princess. “Grisella drew attention to Rosalie on purpose,” Anyuta suddenly thought and heard the chime of the clock. The most benevolent smile blossomed on the face of the evil stepmother. Now her magic will work, and everyone will see that Rosalie is not such a princess worthy of the throne.
The guests continued to applaud and cheer for Rosalie, the clock struck its twelve strokes, and the princess was still the center of attention in her magnificent dress.
The smile slowly faded from Grisella's face. Did her sorcery not work? But this simply cannot be!
- Music! - shouted the evil queen and sat down on her throne again.
- What's happened? Crack asked her quietly.
“I don’t know,” she said irritably, “the dress should have turned into tatters, but this did not happen. Damn girl! How she annoys me! And you asked me why I wanted to kill her myself. Who better than you to know that I have already tried several times, but she seems to be charmed! And no more than yesterday I failed to get her to eat a poisoned apple.
“Nothing,” Crack consoled the queen, “your aunt Brangold will certainly cope with the girl.
- All hope is now only on her.
Anyuta laughed softly on the sidelines. She and Rosalie spent the day sewing an exact copy of the dress sent by Grisella. The Evil Queen thought that Rosalie came to the ball in an enchanted dress, and did not even know that they had changed it.
- Gentlemen, - Grisella addressed everyone again at the end of the ball, - you know that Rosalie is the heiress of our kingdom. And according to the rules, she must pass the test in order to prove to everyone that she is a worthy contender. Tomorrow she will go through the forest to my aunt Brangold for one magical thing. I ask you all to stay with us at the palace so that when Rosalie returns, to welcome her as the new queen.
There was joyful applause and words of congratulations for Rosalie. So that's what Grisella came up with, send her to her witch aunt. Rosalie from childhood remembered the terrible stories that were told about Brangold and her huge teeth.
Wishing her a successful test, Rosalie went up to her room. Anyuta was already waiting for her there.
- Did you hear? the princess asked the girl.
- Yes. Who is this Brangold?
- Grisella's aunt, a very scary witch. She lives in the very wilderness of the forest, and after meeting with her, no one, except for Grisella herself, has ever returned.
- How does she want to tell you!
- Still would. Sleeps and sees how to take my throne.
- By the way, look here, - Anyuta pulled out the dress that Grisella had sent from the box.
- What terrible rags! Rosalie exclaimed. “I couldn’t bear such a disgrace! Thank you for warning me.
“Tomorrow we have to go to the evil queen’s aunt?”
- Yes, there is no other way. I need to bring Grisella some magical thing.
- The morning is wiser than the evening, - Anyuta noticed, - I propose to go to bed, and in the morning we will go on the road.
Rosalie nodded her head in agreement. If Anya is with her, she will definitely help, and even Brangold herself cannot defeat them!

In the morning, smiling slyly, Grisella handed the princess a small wicker basket.
- Here are the medicines for my aunt, - she said, - you will give her from me. She will ask you some riddles, if you answer them, she will give you one magical thing that you will have to bring to the palace and show everyone. Then I will give you the throne.
“Yes, Your Majesty,” Rosalie replied with dignity, “see you soon.”
- And one more thing, - added Grisella, - if you do not return before tomorrow evening, then the task will be considered not completed.
“Of course.” With a clumsy curtsy, Rosalie walked briskly straight into the woods.
She walked in splendid isolation until she was completely out of sight. Satisfied, Grisella returned to the palace. When no one else's eyes could see the princess, Anyuta appeared next to her.
- How good that now I see you, - exclaimed Rosalie delightedly, - otherwise it’s quite dreary in this forest.
- You know that I'm always there for you, - Anya reassured her.
“Yes,” said the princess, and fell silent.
- What's happened?
- Grisella did everything so that I would not come back. Her aunt lives in the very depths of the forest. Even if we run all the way back and forth, we will not be able to return on time through these snowdrifts.
We should at least try!
Rosalie didn't answer. Grisella had given her no chance beforehand. In frustration and thoughtfulness, she stepped over large snowdrifts, when suddenly the sound of bells rang out.
- What is it? Anya asked.
"I don't know," Rosalie replied, turning around.
From behind the trees appeared a silver sleigh harnessed by a trio of white-maned horses hung with ringing bells. In the sleigh sat a young girl in a white fur coat.
- It's the Snow Maiden! Rosalie exclaimed happily.
- Hello, girls! - the Snow Maiden greeted, pulling the reins. The white horses stopped and beat with their hooves. “I have come to help you get to Brangold's house.
- How amazing! - the princess and Anya exclaimed in one voice.
- I see, you have already managed to get upset that you will never cope with this task, - said the Snow Maiden, turning to Rosalie.
“It’s impossible to get there on foot,” she replied.
- How could I leave you in trouble? Get into my sleigh, I will instantly drive you almost to the very place.
The girls quickly climbed into the silver sleigh and drowned in the soft seats. The Snow Maiden waved her reins, the bells rang, and the frisky troika rushed forward, almost not touching the ground. The wind whistled, a whirlwind of snowflakes soared up almost to the sky. Not much time passed, and the sleigh stopped in a small clearing.
- I can’t go any further, - said the Snow Maiden, - Brangold’s possessions begin here. Go straight all the time without turning anywhere, and soon you will see her house.
“Thank you, Snow Maiden,” Rosalie thanked her.
- See you, girls! The girl waved goodbye to them. Breaking off the spot, the trio of snow-white horses took off, leaving behind a whirlwind of sparkling snowflakes.
- You see, how wonderful! Anyuta said. - And you were afraid that we would not get there in time.
Hand in hand, the girls walked down the snowy road. The farther they went, the more impenetrable the forest became. Huge branches of trees, under the weight of snow, hung down to the very ground, tall overgrown bushes now and then clung to their fur coats. Finally, it brightened a little ahead, and the girls found themselves in a small clearing, where there was a hut on chicken legs.
- Blimey! Annette exclaimed. - This is the hut of Baba Yaga!
- Who is this, Baba Yaga?
- Oh, you! You live in a fairy tale, but you don’t know fairy tales. Baba Yaga is a bone leg, such an old, very old woman who practices witchcraft.
- So this is Brangilda. But in this strange house there are no windows or doors.
“Watch and learn,” Anya said proudly. - Hut, hut, stand back to the forest, front to me!
The hut swayed, creaked, and began to turn towards the girls. Huge chicken legs stomped on the ground so that everything shook around.
"I'll be there," Anyuta whispered, putting on her invisibility cap.
When the hut stopped, its skewed door swung open with a creak, and Brangolda appeared on the threshold. She looked, in fact, scary - a crooked nose, matted gray hair and huge protruding teeth. At the sight of the old witch, Rosalie's insides turned cold.
- Who's walking around here? shouted Brangold in a rough voice. - My peace disturbs!
- Hello, grandma! The princess replied politely. “Your niece Grisella sent me, I brought you medicines,” and Rosalie handed the evil old woman a basket covered with a scarf.
- Grisella! Well, come on, come on, let's see what the niece sent, - mumbled the sorceress. Opening the basket, she pulled out a whole cube of small vipers. “Ah, you are my little ones! Ah, you are my pretty ones! The nephew pleased, pleased. Well, come in, you will be a guest, ”she invited Rosalie.
Shuddering with disgust, the girl climbed the steps to the hut. Someone squeezed her hand reassuringly. Anyuta.
- Well, tell me, what do you want in return? Rosalie asked Brangold.
- G-grisella said that you will give me some magical thing. I have to bring it to the palace.
- Look, what a cunning! Give! I won't just give it to you! If you guess my riddles - you will get a thing, but if you don’t guess it - I will eat you!
- Ouch!
- Here you go! Listen to my first riddle: There is a curl in the garden, a white shirt, a golden heart, what is it?
"I need to think," Rosalie managed. Well, the riddle, how to solve this?
“Think about it, just not for long, otherwise I really want to eat,” Brangolda laughed, baring her terrible teeth.
"It's a daisy," Anyuta whispered softly into Rosalie's ear.
- I know! It's a chamomile! repeated the princess.
- Oh, you ... - laughter died in the throat of the old witch. - Okay. Listen to my second riddle: Grandfather is sitting, dressed in a hundred fur coats, whoever undresses him sheds tears. Well, tell me, what is it?
Rosalie had never heard of such a grandfather. How to guess? And Brangold is just waiting to devour it.
“It’s a bow,” Anyuta whispered into the princess’s ear again.
- I know! It's an onion!
- Oh, that's how! Brangold moved towards her. - Then here's the third riddle for you: Who has neither arms nor legs, but walks!
Rosalie was confused. Well, how can you walk if there are no arms or legs?
- Don't you know? Brangold rubbed her bony hands happily.
- Clock! This is a clock! Rosalie screamed with her last strength.
- Wow! the old witch got angry. “And how do you know all this?” - from anger, she hit the floor with her bone leg. She'll eat this girl anyway! She looked pretty appetizing. - Okay, you guessed my riddles. Here is a basket with a magical thing, - she pointed to the table with her hand. - Now I'll collect pies for you on the road, and here you are, play on the goose for now.
The old woman thrust her harp into Rosalie's hands and limped out of the hut. The princess played the harp.
"We need to get out of here," she heard Anyuta's voice. - She went to sharpen her teeth to eat you!
- How can I escape from here?
- I will play the harp so that she thinks that you are still here and did not set off in pursuit. And you run!
- And how are you?
“She won’t see me anyway, I’m wearing an invisibility cap.” Run to the place where Brangold's domain ends and wait for me there. Take the basket!
Grabbing the basket, Rosalie jumped out of the hut and ran as fast as she could. Anyuta at this time continued to play the gusel instead of the princess. Brangolda heard the music and slowly sharpened her huge teeth. Having finished, she hobbled into the hut and saw that on the bench lay the psaltery, which play by themselves.
- She ran away! she screamed. “Ah, you damned harp!” What are you playing yourself? - out of anger, the old sorceress grabbed them and threw them against the wall. - I'll catch up anyway! You will not leave!
The old woman jumped out of the hut and ran in the footsteps of Rosalie. Anyuta followed. For such an ancient old woman, Brangolda moved quite quickly, as if she did not have any bone legs.
- You won't leave me! she suddenly shouted, and Anyuta saw Rosalie. Apparently, the princess fell while running away, and was now limping. Delighted, Brangolda ran even faster. Until the end of her possessions, there were very few left.
Rosalie with the last of her strength moved forward, but the witch inevitably overtook her. What to do? The old woman reached out her hands to grab the princess. Anyuta was feverishly thinking about how to help Rosalie, when suddenly a saving idea came to her mind! Running ahead, she tripped Brangold, and the old witch at full speed fell right into a huge snowdrift.
Taking Rosalie by the arm, Anyuta dragged her to the clearing. While running, the cap of invisibility fell off her, and now the old woman could see that the princess was not alone. Anyuta, on the run, picked up her fallen hat, while Brangolda, shaking herself, got out of the snow. At that moment, the girls crossed the border of the old witch's domain, and now she was not afraid of them.
- You won't leave anyway! the sorceress shouted in a thunderous voice and muttered some kind of spell. Immediately, an ominous wolf howl was heard from all sides, and wolves appeared in the clearing. Groaning menacingly, they surrounded the girls.
- Yeah! Gotcha! Brangold rubbed her hands happily. The wolves came closer and closer. The circle narrowed.
Anna, what should we do? Rosalie almost cried.
"I don't know," the girl replied. It was her first time and she didn't really know what to do.
The animals roared menacingly, the girls closed their eyes in fear... And suddenly there was a familiar ringing of bells. A silver sleigh pulled into the clearing pulled by a trio of white-maned horses.
- Went! Go here! - the Snow Maiden shouted at the wolves, clapping her hands. With their tails between their legs, the animals ran between the trees. - Get in my sleigh! - the Snow Maiden shouted to the girls. Rosalie and Anyuta quickly jumped onto the soft seats, and the snow-white horses briskly galloped forward.
Brangold could only scold after the disappearing prey.

The Snow Maiden took the girls to the very edge of the forest. After listening to the words of gratitude and, smiling reassuringly, she whipped the reins, and the white horses flew straight into the sky, leaving behind, as usual, a whole whirlwind of dancing snowflakes.
It's only morning and we're already back! Rosalie exclaimed happily.
- Yes, now we can not rush. I wonder what kind of magical item is in the basket? Anyuta suddenly asked. “Let’s see if the old woman Brangold has deceived us?”
"Come on," Rosalie agreed.
Opening the basket, the girls saw a small stick with golden threads wound around it.
- What is it? Anyuta was surprised.
"It's a spindle," Rosalie replied, and held out her hand to pull it out of the basket.
- Stop! Anna grabbed the princess's hand.
- What's happened?
- If this is a magic spindle, then as soon as you touch it, you will prick yourself and fall asleep for a whole hundred years, like Sleeping Beauty!
Anna, you are so smart! the princess was delighted. - What would I do without you? After all, you have guessed all the riddles of Brangold and you know so many fairy tales!
- Her riddles, in fact, were quite easy, we passed them at school, - the girl boasted. - I love to read fairy tales.
- What to do now? When I return to the palace, I will need to hand the spindle over to Grisella, she must very much hope that I will inject myself with it, and she will get rid of me for a whole hundred years.
- After all, we are like you, like sisters, - Anyuta smiled, - I will go instead of you.
- What if you also prick yourself and fall asleep for a hundred years?
- Only a princess can get pricked with a spindle, but I'm not a princess, I'm an ordinary girl. Grisella will be surprised!
“Yes, she will eat her crown in anger,” Rosalie laughed.

As soon as Anyuta appeared on the horizon, the royal heralds began to announce to everyone that Princess Rosalie was returning. Grisella was very surprised. Did she manage to return alive from her aunt Brangold? Together with everyone else, she went out to greet the princess.
Entering the throne room, Anyuta went up to the throne and handed her a basket with a spindle.
“Here, Your Majesty, is the magical item I was supposed to bring,” she said, bowing awkwardly to the evil queen.
- What is there? Get it and show everyone.
Anyuta opened the basket and took out a golden spindle. Grisella smiled happily. Now Rosalie will prick and fall asleep for a whole hundred years, and all this time she will rule the kingdom with Crack. But the girl quite calmly held the spindle in her hands.
- This spindle is not real! Grisella suddenly squealed.
“But your aunt Brangold gave it to me,” Anyuta objected to her.
- Sassy Girl! I'm telling you, it's not real!
- See for yourself, Your Majesty, it is all gold and gold threads are wound on it.
Enraged, Grisella rose from her throne and snatched the magic spindle from Anyuta's hands.
- Ai! she cried. - I pricked them! Blood! What is it with me? - Grisella's legs buckled, and Crack ran up to her.
- The doctors! The doctors! he said.
The doctor, who came running to his cries, ordered the queen to be transferred to one of the rooms. After examining her, she issued a verdict that she was sleeping.
How long will she sleep for? Crack asked, biting his fingers.
“At least a hundred years,” the palace doctor said importantly.
- A hundred years! But why?
- She pricked herself with a magic spindle. Most likely, such a spell was cast on him.
“But then why didn’t Rosalie prick with it?”
“Our princess held it carefully, so she didn’t prick herself,” the doctor said in an instructive tone, “and Her Majesty the queen grabbed this magical object too sharply.
- What to do now? whined Crack.
- Nothing. Leave her alone and let her sleep.
- But a hundred years!
“There is nothing more I can do to help Her Majesty,” said the doctor, putting all his instruments into a white suitcase. “Take care of the coronation.
- What coronation? - asked the frustrated Crack.
- The coronation of Princess Rosalie, of course! She passed the test and now must take the throne.
- Oh yes! Yes! Crack exclaimed sadly. - I will definitely do it.

Against Crack's wishes, Rosalie refused his help. Her coronation was magnificent and festive. All the kings, queens and princes of neighboring states congratulated her and wished her kingdom prosperity. Anyuta was also present at the celebration. Of course, no one saw her, but she had fun from the bottom of her heart, imitating the dancers.
After the holiday, the girls were left alone. Rosalie once again thanked Anyuta for her help.
- Probably, it's time for me to go home, - Anya said, - my mother must have searched me.
“I will miss you,” the princess smiled sadly.
There was a ringing of bells, and the Snow Maiden appeared in front of them.
“I see you already said goodbye,” she smiled. “Then let’s go to the magic mirror.” Anyuta really should go home.
The three of them entered Grisella's secret room and stopped at the magic mirror. The Snow Maiden touched the mirror with her hand, and it began to ripple. The girls hugged for the last time. Anyuta closed her eyes and passed through the molten mirror. This time she did not fly anywhere and did not fall, but only heard the cheerful ringing of bells.
When the girl opened her eyes, she saw that she was standing in front of the very store, in the window of which a black and gold dress was displayed. Glancing at him for the last time, Anya ran to the store for mayonnaise, cinnamon and cream.

Waking up in the morning, she stretched sweetly. What a wonderful adventure she has had. To visit a real fairy tale, help a real princess and win the battle against the cunning and insidious enemies of Rosalie. Anyuta was truly proud of herself for the first time. If Artyom only knew where she was and what happened to her, he would be surprised!
Anna, are you awake yet? The mother entered the girl's room.
- Yes, just now.
Can you help decorate the Christmas tree? Parents of Ira and Artyom will come to visit us today together with their children.
At the name of Irka, Anyuta grimaced. Again, she will go out of her way, showing everyone how beautiful she is.
- Of course, I will help, - Anna sighed.
Entering the hall, she saw that the Christmas tree was already standing in the middle of the room, it only needed to be decorated. And under the Christmas tree lay a large red box tied with a bright bow. I wonder what it is there?
“It looks like Santa Claus brought you a present in advance,” Mom smiled.
Carefully untying the bow, the girl curiously opened the box. Inside lay the very dress that she tried on in the store, and from which her magical adventure began.
- Mommy! Anna exclaimed in admiration. “But how did you guess?
- And this is not me, - Svetlana smiled slyly, - this is Santa Claus!

Before the arrival of the guests, Anyuta put on her new dress, tinted her eyelashes, loosened her hair and twisted it with a curling iron. Going to the mirror, she saw Princess Rosalie in front of her. No, of course, it was Anya, but how she still looks like a princess!
There was a knock on the front door.
Anya, open up! Mom shouted. - The guests have come!
Running out into the corridor, Anyuta pulled the heavy door towards her. So it is, Irka looked at Anya with an expression of superiority, hanging on Artyom's arm.
- With coming! Anyuta said. - Come on.
“Thank you,” Artyom replied, giving the girl an approving look.
- And you, too, - Irka added in a hoarse whistling voice, limping as she entered the corridor.
- Oh, what's wrong with your voice? Anya asked sympathetically.
- She overate ice cream, - her mother answered instead of Irka, - you look great today, Anyuta.
- Thanks. What about the leg?
- I turned it up, - Irka croaked. Look, how curious, tell her everything, what and why.
The guests sat down at the table. Irka sat down, as always, next to Artyom, and Anyuta sat opposite them both. Artyom now and then raised his eyes and admired Anya. She has changed so much, she looks completely different, so unusual.
The clock began to strike twelve, and Anyuta made her most cherished wish to herself. After the congratulations, the adults suddenly started talking about dancing.
“Now young people don’t even know how to dance,” said Irkin’s dad, “whether it was before! Quadrille, mazurka, waltz!
- Our Artyom went to a dance club for several years, - Artyom's mother immediately boasted.
- So this is when it was! Irkin's dad waved his hand. “Probably already forgot everything!”
- But I didn't forget!
- And then let him show!
- And would show! But he doesn't have a partner. None of the girls know how to waltz.
- I can! Anyuta suddenly uttered, and she herself marveled at her own courage.
- You? Ira burst out laughing with her hoarse laugh. - That's exhausting! Anka can dance the waltz! Did you go to dances? she hissed.
Artyom looked at the girl with disapproval. It would be better if she was silent with such and such a voice.
- So let him dance with Anka, since they both know how, - Irkin's father immediately put in, - or weakly? Weak! That's what I thought!
“Nothing is weak,” Artyom said suddenly, rising from his seat. - Anya, do you really know how to dance the waltz? he turned to Anyuta. She nodded her head. “Then let’s show them how to dance.”
Anyuta also got up and went to the center of the room.
“Now, I’ll turn on the waltz for you,” Svetlana fussed with music. The woman even became a little uncomfortable. After all, if her daughter does not cope with the dance, then the ridicule will not subside for a long time.
When the music started, Artyom took Anyuta by the arm and led her into the dance. Remembering how she waltzed at balls in Rosalie's palace, the girl whirled easily and naturally in a waltz. The adults fell silent, admiring the beautiful couple. And only Irka Grebeshkova looked angrily at the dancers. Today, her self-confidence has been greatly shaken. First, Anyuta suddenly began to look completely different; secondly, it turned out that she knew how to dance, and not just anything, but such a complex dance as a waltz; and thirdly, not only all the parents looked at her in admiration, but also Artyom.
When the dance ended, thunderous applause broke out. Artyom's mother even had tears of emotion in her eyes. Svetlana looked at her daughter as if she were some kind of miracle. And Irka just turned green all over with envy.
When the guests left, Anyuta went to the mirror in her room. Looking at her reflection, she smiled. For the first time in a long time, the girl was absolutely happy. From today, from the first day of the new year, everything in her life will be new.
"So be it!" - she heard someone's voice, coming from afar to the sound of bells, and the reflection in the mirror winked slyly at her.