First published in 1844, The Fir Tree is a moving short story about a tree that is so desperate to grow up that it cannot appreciate the present. Following the tree from its early years until it is big enough to be cut down and used as a Christmas tree, it highlights the importance of living in the moment, and offers a topical and bleak outlook on our use of nature.Part of Renard''s successful Christmas Card Classics series, 25% of the RRP of each book sold goes to the Three Peas, a small charity supporting refugees.''Hans Christian Andersen''s fairy tales have captivated generations with their blend of plain language, unbridled imagination and haunting strangeness.''Philippa Gregory