Adam Schmitt is not a Grinch

Cresco - Most people have a favorite book. That is true of Adam Schmitt as well. His favorite Christmas book is “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” by Dr. Seuss, but it isn’t just a holiday read. He enjoys hearing the story all year long!

“I saw it on TV when I was three or four, and I like it.It takes place on Mount Crumpet with Max the dog. The Grinch wants to steal Christmas. He wears a Santa suit and steals Christmas from the Whos in Whoville. He changes his attitude. It turns from bad to good.”

That is the short version of the story that most people recognize either from book, Christmas show or movies. (The newest movie, the animated “The Grinch” released this fall is better than Jim Carey’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” according to Schmitt.)

The book was read so much to Schmitt when he was a child that he was able to memorize it. Then he started reciting it! His associate in third grade, Mrs. DelRae Wolter, encouraged him. “She’s very nice,” Schmitt commented.

Adam’s mom Betty Schmitt added, “She heard him recite it in third grade. He knew it from heart!”

“I watched the cartoon,” Adam explained.

“And we would read it, even in the middle of summer. It was always his favorite!,” Betty said.

Over the years, family and friends know what Adam wants for gifts. For his graduation in 2005, he received a blow-up Grinch. He also has a big Grinch picture, two stuffed Grinches, at least 20 ornaments and a book in Spanish and English. He can recite the book in both languages.

He has been going to the local schools and nursing homes to recite the book and chat with the children and seniors for the last 12 years. Adam recites the book while Betty turns the pages.

Betty said, “The kids are captivated by him. Recitation is a lost art.”

Besides knowing ““How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” from front to back, Adam can also recite “’Twas Night Before Christmas.”