For the first time, author Quentin Schultze, who taught storytelling with screenwriter Jean Shepherd, reveals the "secret" parables that Shepherd included in his screenplay for A Christmas Story. Now you won't need a decoder ring to learn why the Old Man's leg lamp is his "trophy wife," why the bully is named "Scut," why there is a "Bumpus" in all of us, why Mom and the kids give a "Bronx cheer" after singing "Jingle Bells" in the Olds, and so much more. Take a fun-loving and insightful romp through the 20 life lessons in the Christmas classic, based exclusively on the author's friendship with Shepherd. Includes a special appendix on Shepherd's 7-step process for telling humorous stories; perfect for teachers, pastors, writers, leaders, and the like.​​​​​​​ P.S. Turn on your leg lamp to read this amazing book at night! Includes line drawings, special text boxes, and trivia questions.