How the Grinch Stole Christmas! is the English translation of the classical Russian story, Сказ работника и праздничного городка (lit. The Tale of the Worker and the Festive Town), as written by Kazimir Stovidoyska.
The Russian version opens up with the titular Worker , Ivan Grinchovis, leaving the town of Whominaskya, which has embraced capitalistic ideals and now enjoys the fruits of his labor in the form of a festive and massive celebration. Angry that his work and toil has gone unnoticed by the people in the festive town, and desperate since he now has nothing left to ease his heart pains, Grinchovis devises a plan to take what is rightfully his from the oppressors of Whominaskya. Donning his red lumberjack outfit and manning his dog sled, he approaches in the night before their Celebration of Wealth and takes the presents and decorations back to his mountain cabin. Looking back at the town once he returns, Grinchovis notes that the people of Whominaskya, rather than being despondent at the loss of their wealth, have put forth an honest effort to rebuild the town from what Grinchovis took, meager though it may be. Shocked, he realizes that he has become that which he despises most, and returns to the town with his possessions. Together, Grinchovis and the people of Whominaskya agree to work for the benefit of all.
The Russian version opens up with the titular Worker , Ivan Grinchovis, leaving the town of Whominaskya, which has embraced capitalistic ideals and now enjoys the fruits of his labor in the form of a festive and massive celebration. Angry that his work and toil has gone unnoticed by the people in the festive town, and desperate since he now has nothing left to ease his heart pains, Grinchovis devises a plan to take what is rightfully his from the oppressors of Whominaskya. Donning his red lumberjack outfit and manning his dog sled, he approaches in the night before their Celebration of Wealth and takes the presents and decorations back to his mountain cabin. Looking back at the town once he returns, Grinchovis notes that the people of Whominaskya, rather than being despondent at the loss of their wealth, have put forth an honest effort to rebuild the town from what Grinchovis took, meager though it may be. Shocked, he realizes that he has become that which he despises most, and returns to the town with his possessions. Together, Grinchovis and the people of Whominaskya agree to work for the benefit of all.
