This is what Christmas should be -- a holiday free of mall Muzak and the frantic need to lay your hands on the superstore's last Tickle Me Xbox.

CNN: European Christmas markets rich with history

Well by January of next year, after what HMV hopes will be a traditional Christmas rush rather madder than last year's, it should be clear whether it will swim or sink.

BBC: HMV: Two years to shape up

This week phone calls will be made, e-mails will circulate: What movie should we all go see this Christmas?

NPR: A Family Challenge at the Multiplex