A Novel Approach

April 10

Born on April 10, 1827, Lew Wallace was a state senator for Indiana and served as a general during the Civil War, saving Washington, DC, from a Confederate attack in 1864. In 1873, he achieved some success with a novel called "The Fair God." Believing it would be possible to make a successful career as an author, Wallace began writing a story that followed the life of Jesus from birth to his crucifixion -- but with a twist. The novel follows a young Jewish nobleman who falls out of favor with Rome and whose life intertwines with Jesus at various points. The novel became one of the most successful novels of all time and was later made into a stage production and eventually, after Wallace's death, two films. The book: Ben Hur.

"Cole" in Macy's Stocking

April 1

When Hollywood decided to make a modernized version of the holiday film classic, "Miracle on 34th Street," they ran into a major snag. Macy's Department Stores, who figure prominently in the plot line, refused to give permission to the producers to use their name. So the name was changed to C.F. Coles. Cole... Coal? Was the producer putting coal in Macy's stocking for being naughty?