I've read it every year for years now (self imposed tradition) and it take me about 4 days with an hour or so a day. Not a long book by any stretch.
I'm also of the opinion that The Muppet Christmas Carol is both the best and most accurate adaptation.
It's the same though isn't it? While it's not the reason why we liked the music we liked (more punk than metal for me but same difference) it was always a bonus if your parents didn't like it. That's exactly the reaction that kids are getting from their parents now!