Editorial Review

Reviews

Ahh! The memories..., November 3, 2009
I thought this was probably the best of Susan Waggoner's festive season books. It's a Wonderful Christmas: The Best of the Holidays 1940-1965 looked back to the 1940s to 1960s and Under the Tree: The Toys and Treats that Made Christmas Special, 1930-1970 focused on toys from 1930 to 1970. All three books follow the same format with the words backed up plenty of Christmas photos, illustrations and graphics.

I was rather disappointed with the feel of the two previous books because I thought they looked rather scrappy and didn't display the pictures and page graphics to the best advantage but I'm happy to say that this latest edition really captures the feel of the season from page one. It starts with the 1920s and runs up to the 1960s with a mixture of reminiscences from personalities and unknown folk, details of everyday life at Christmas time over the decades, quotes from books and period magazines but I think it's the illustrations that come across best. These are taken from period ads (lots of them) catalogs, Christmas cards, photos and more (perhaps the catalog pages could have been bigger to see the prices, though). Fortunately the design of the pages pulls all this material together to make the book a pleasure to browse through.

Well worth getting if you want to relive those nostalgic Yuletide memories or maybe, if you are young enough, you just want to find out why your parents are always raving about Christmas in those simpler times. Also worth checking out is Christmas Wishes: A Catalog of Vintage Holiday Treats and Treasures (Antiques Collectables) which has an amazing collection of commercial Christmas graphic items from the fifties and sixties.

***SEE SOME INSIDE PAGES by clicking 'customer images' under the cover.

Memories, October 25, 2009
a real fun read it brings you back to your childhood if you;er over 50 and for those younger it will show you how to really enjoy the holiday

A wonderful slice of nostalgia!, October 9, 2009
This book is an amazing source of all things retro and Christmas. I haven't taken the time to sit down and read it thoroughly, but flipping through and looking at the photos was incredible. Lovely examples of decorations and ads from each era, it is sure to inspire any one who loves Christmas and the Holiday season to get in the mood!

Beautiful book!, December 19, 2009
This is a beautiful book. I bought it as a gift for my mother, and wanted to keep it for myself. The jacket is beautiful, the inside pages are wonderful, and overall it is full of Christmas memories from the past, many of which you will want to bring back. There is even a page comparing prices Christmas items past and what those items would cost now adjusted for inflation. I ordered more after seeing it, as I would be proud to give this as a gift, and grateful to receive it.

Informative and pleasant, December 3, 2009
Lovely book to read as we approach Christmas. A time so near and yet so far. Share with your children and grand children and live again the thrill of those childhood Christmas times. Love it.

Great Book, February 8, 2010
I have 2 books by this ame author & I thoroughly enjoy the both of them very much. I recommend this book to anyone who grew up anywhere between the 1920's & 1960's or for anyone who wants to find out about Christmas during these times.

Entertaining Read, January 29, 2010
This is a delightful book. I have packed it away with our Christmas things and will enjoy it year after year during the holidays. It brought back many wonderful memories. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Even now that we're all grown up, we can't help but look back on our childhood holidays and hope to recapture that elusive spirit of joyful anticipation. Celebrating Christmas is so often about nostalgia. With a nod and a wink to the days of Christmas past, It's a Wonderful Christmas presents classic images of the Yuletide icons of mid-20th-century America.

Bubbler lights and glow-in-the-dark icicles. Catalogues crammed with toys. Norad bulletins tracking Rudolph's red nose through the nighttime sky. Along with hundreds of such quintessentially American illustrations, author Susan Waggoner stocking-stuffs her lively text with fascinating bits of information, lore, and lists. Wonder what the all-time most popular Christmas song is? How the tradition of the department store Santa got started? The answers are here. Loaded with images of vintage Christmas cards, wrapping paper, magazine ads, Lionel toy trains, and more, all in full color, this charming book will appeal to anyone who associates Christmas with home movies, "The Chipmunk Song," and Santa relaxing with an ice-cold bottle of Coca-Cola.AUTHOR BIO: SUSAN WAGGONER is the author of several illustrated books, including Vintage Cocktails (STC). A native of Minnesota, she currently lives in New York City. ... Read more

Reviews

FOR COLLECTORS OR NOSTALGIA BUFFS, December 1, 2004
I have to admit that the content in this book is a bit before my time...yet that doesn't make it any less wonderful to browse through. Open the pages and step back to the simpler times of the 40's and 50's.

Browse through the wonderful toys are parents grew up with...Model trains, dolls, cars and trucks...and the great decorations of that bygone era with the wonderful glass ornaments, bubble lights, and aluminum trees.

Filled with fun and interesting facts about the times, the sense of nostalgia you get when going through this great book is awesome. Really makes you wish you had grown up during that era.

If I have a minor complaint its that I wish the book was longer.

I LOVE this book!, October 21, 2004
I first saw this book advertised in one of the many Christmas gift catalogs filling our mailbox in October. I checked on Amazon.com to see if they had it and at what price (about $5.00 less!), so I ordered a copy. I love the book! I fall right in the demographic market this book is targeted towards and they really hit the mark. So many wonderful childhood Christmas memories were brought to mind. The text is well written and informative. The illustrations are delightful and the reproduction quality is high. I was so pleased with it (when I finally pried it out of my husband's hands so I could get a good look at it)that I ordered five more copies that night to give as gifts. Highly recommended.

Take McQUARTHY'S QUIZMAS QUIZ..., January 24, 2006

IT'S A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS was given to me by an old friend last December 25th, and I really dig it. The book is subtitled, "The Best Of The Holidays 1940-1965" and if you have Christmas memories that fall within that time frame (as I do), you will enjoy it all the more. Susan Waggoner does a nice job of organizing and revisiting so many of the heartwarming aspects of The Ghost Of Christmas Past. The pages are awash in bright color - this IS Christmas afterall - and the book is lavishly illustrated with photos and old print ads that will bring out the lost little boy or girl in all but the most cynical among us. IT'S A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS covers most of the secular joys and traditions that we associate with America's grandest holiday.

There was only one category that Waggoner surprisingly missed, and that was our love for Christmas-themed movies and television programs. Granted, most of the classic Christmas TV specials were produced after 1965, but still 'A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS' ('65) and 'RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER' ('64) fall within the target, and so do many of the popular Christmas movies, the viewing of which has become an important part of the Christmas celebrations in the majority of households. Waggoner missed a great opportunity to relate how America's favorite Christmas movie, 'IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE' (which she even borrowed for the title of her wonderful book), started out as just a sketchy little story used as a Christmas card by its writer, Philip VanDoren Stern. The only other less than glowing comment I have to make is that the book comes to a strangely abrupt ending. One minute we're reading about Christmas candies, and the next minute the book has come to an

You see? Just like that, it's over! It's almost as if the reader has wandered off the edge of The North Pole. I was so taken aback, that I went to the Table of Contents to see if my copy was missing a closing chapter, a summation of what had come before...something. It's like getting a beautifully wrapped Christmas gift, but one that is missing the bow on top.

But all in all, IT'S A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS delivers like Santa. And it contains one of the all-time great Christmas-related anecdotes: Shirley Temple says, "I stopped believing in Santa Claus when my Mother took me to see him in a department store, and he asked for my autograph." Is that classic, or what?! Following is my McQUARTHY'S QUIZMAS QUIZ, which I created from some of the trivia I was exposed to through Waggoner's book. Each question is worth 5 points; if you can score a 70 or better, you don't really need this book (but you'll enjoy it nonetheless)...

1) The first artificial Christmas Trees were made by a... a. vegetable brush company / b. toilet brush company / c. pipe cleaner company / d. bottle brush company

2) In 1961, what percentage of Christmas cards were purchased by women? a. 80 / b. 83 / c. 90 / d. 95

3) The White House issued Christmas cards in 1953... a. to ease post-Korean War depression / b. to ease "nuclear war jitters" / c. featuring artwork by President Eisenhower / d. because Moscow had begun printing Winter solstice cards

4) America's first Christmas postage stamps were not issued until 1962 because... a. there was disagreement over using a secular or sacred image / b. it was believed that few people would specifically purchase them / c. the stamps sent from the printing company in 1961 were lost in the mail / d. some felt it violated a separation of church and state

5) Macy's department store observed its first open-until-midnight Christmas Eve in 1867 and made how much money? a. $2,000 / b. $4,000 / c. $6,000 / d. $8,000

6) Gimbel's department store organized its first Thanksgiving parade in 1920. The man who portrayed Santa Claus was... a. a fireman / b. a policeman / c. the head of store security / d. a Salvation Army volunteer

7) Rudolph The Red-nosed Reindeer was created by... a. the singer & songwriter, Gene Autry / b. the department store employee, Robert May / c. the Hallmark Card Company executive, Ed Goodman / d. the New Jersey store Santa, Yoey O'Dogherty

8) In order to ensure that there would always be a maximum number of shopping days, Congress passed a bill moving Thanksgiving from the "last Thursday" in November to the "fourth Thursday" in... a. 1931 / b. 1938 / c. 1941 / d. 1948

9) In what year was the song, 'DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR?' introduced? a. 1960 / b. 1962 / c. 1965 / d. 1967

10) Retail Santas began appearing as store greeters during... a. the Civil War / b. World War I / c. World War II / d. The Korean War

11) At one time, Rudolph's creator considered naming his reindeer... a. Robert / b. Randy / c. Reginald / d. Roberta

12) The Montgomery Ward store did not reissue the story of Rudolph during World War II because... a. it was feared that the name was too Germanic / b. there was a paper shortage / c. there was a dispute over who owned the copyright / d. Mr. Montgomery Ward felt the taunting of Rudolph created a negative impression of the store amongst shoppers

13) Timex watches became one of the most popular Christmas gifts of the century. They debuted in... a. 1944 / b. 1946 / c. 1950 / d. 1952

14) For Christmas in 1957, Elvis gave his girlfriend... a). a poodle / b. a poodle skirt with rubies sewn into the waistband / c. a pair of faux ruby shoes used in the movie, 'The Wizard Of Oz' / d. a pink convertible Cadillac with ruby radio dials

15) A popular toy/game that debuted in 1947 was... a. Slinky / b. Tonka trucks / c. Chutes and Ladders by Milton Bradley / d. All of these

16) According to Art Clokey, the inventor of "Gumby", who always understood the character? a. little girls / b. little boys / c. stage actors / d. hippies

17) What Disney character appeared on women's briefs in 1955? a. Snow White / b. Cinderella / c. Lady (from 'Lady And The Tramp') / d. Davy Crockett

18) Mattel created the first talking doll, Chatty Cathy, in 1960. Who supplied Cathy's voice? a. June Foray / b. Shirley Temple / c. Kathy Weizen / d. Cathy Rigby

19) Kellogg's introduced the recipe for Rice Krispie Treats in the... a. 1930s / b. 1940s / c. 1950s / d. 1960s

20) What percentage of American households leave milk and cookies for Santa Claus on Christmas Eve? a. 10 / b. 15 / c. 20 / d. 25

ANSWERS:

1) b 2) a 3) c 4) d 5) c
6) a 7) b 8) c 9) b 10) a
11) c 12) b 13) b 14) a 15) b
16) d 17) d 18) a 19) b 20) a

Don't feel bad if you failed this test; I am undefeated in the game of 'Balderdash.' I'd make a great liar.

Regarding question #18, I would like to point out that this relatively unknown, but incredibly talented "voice artist" was also responsible for the voices of the following famous characters: Rocket J. Squirrel, Natasha Fatale, and Nell Fenwick from 'Rocky & Bullwinkle'; Lucifer the cat from Disney's 'Cinderella'; Aaron's Mother in 'The Little Drummer Boy'; Karen and the Teacher in 'Frosty The Snowman'; the Grandma from 'Tweety & Slylvester'; the Mermaid and the Indian Squaw from Disney's 'Peter Pan'; Lena Hyena and Wheezy Weasel from 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit'; and even the voice for the wife of the man getting dunked on Disneyland's 'Pirates Of The Caribbean' ride ("Don't tell him, Carlos!"); and hundreds of other animated characters.

Great Holiday Book for the baby-boomer on your list, August 21, 2005
The subtitle of this book is "The best of the Holidays 1940 - 1965." That's certainly true. What one discovers is that many of the traditions we associate with Christmas: wrapping presents, visiting Santa etc aren't that old-most started in the last 80 years or so. Specifically, the chapters cover the evolution of Christmas trees, (artificial trees have a much longer legacy than most people, including me, know), decorations, lighting shopping-of course, food and Santa Claus. Anyone who remembers that time, will certainly enjoy reading about Bubble Lights and Green Bean Casseroles.

The author makes the point along the way, that those who decry the "commercialization of Christmas", are first: missing a crucial point that the secular part of the celebration helps to socialize those who aren't Christians and second: complaints about commercialization go back to at least 1837 for the US (and I believe the 18th Century in the UK.) This short (about 100 pages all told) book would make an excellent gift to the baby-boomer on your list.

Lady, ya need to make it longer!, September 15, 2007
I am a Christmas junkie, always have been, so this was a great gift idea for one such as me, and my wife saw this and pounced on it straight off.

I don't think I'm the only one, either -- Christmas is the whole reason for having a calendar, for enduring summer, a reward for keeping our yaps shut during Near-holidays, or Faux holidays, like Labor Day or Valentine's. Christmas is life at its surreal best, the time when we get nostalgic for stuff that didn't really happen. We might be the first group to confuse recollection of television shows with our own lives, and, hey, we REVEL in that.

One moment is typical -- the window stencils and the spray junk that made the images on one's windows. It came right off, but it still irritated the bee-whosis out of our mom. Here is where things get slightly mystical for me. The photo brought back smells and sounds and body memories -- I can think of no other way to describe them -- in a heady and bittersweet rush. I wanted more -- I want more.

This is the one criticism I had -- don't you think something so crucial to American life and light should be a trifle more exhaustive? Couldn't this have been a coffee-table sized book? Are there sequels planned? Maybe year by year, throwing wide the focus? This felt more like an article that was beefed up a bit, and I think Ms. Waggoner could cast a wider net and make her and her publisher much more money and make us Christmas junkies much happier.

Nevertheless, it is highly recommended, buy yourself a copy and a few for friends -- it would make a great Christmas gift, actually -- and get a few copies of the real MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET while you're at it. How are you coming on memorizing the dialogue in A CHRISTMAS STORY, by the way?

christmas book, March 31, 2007
I love this book. It has things in it from when i was a kid. The pictures are great too.

Let's do the time warp again!, May 9, 2006
What a wonderful, nostalgic look at Christmases past. I was surprised to learn that some gifts and traditions came into being 20 years before I was born (1954), and because I lived in Germany until first grade, there were some toys, decorations and treats I never knew existed.

I especially enjoyed the details of how rationing during WWII effected everything! I had heard a few of my grandmother's stories, and even have her old ration book, but never imagined how resourceful people had to become to have some semblance of normalcy during those years.

What a great book, not only for your own personal stroll down memory lane, but a little more current history of Christmas for the electronic generation!

A great nostalgic book, August 5, 2005
For today's baby boomers, this is a delightful trip back to simpler times. Wonderfully illustrated. A great gift for your siblings or friends in their 40's or 50's. I bought one as a gift and intend to order another for myself.

Brings Back Memories!, February 9, 2005
The first time I saw this book I knew I had to have it. I remember those early 60's Christmases and my mom and dad had told me so much about their own wartime holidays. This book makes me want to go back in time and do it all over again! Super photos and ads!

I want Christmas in August now!, August 13, 2005
I don't know what prompted me to buy this book in the dead of Summer, but I did, and let me just tell you - it made me long for the Winter again. I've always longed for a life and family that celebrated the holidays like you see in the movies, and now I can do it a little easier with this book. I wish, wish, wish I could go back to that time, but since I can't, the book will do well. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Children experience Christmas through magic, anticipation, and learning about the baby Jesus. As we mature, we experience Christmas through the gifts we give, the love we share, and the magic we create for others. A Chicken Soup for the Soul Christmas brings back the memories of childhood through the eyes of children on Christmas day and inspires good deeds by reminding us how the smallest gesture can truly change a life.

Go back in time through genuine stories of hope and kindness and see how people find the true meaning of the season through unexpected miracles and those they meet along the way. Peek into the life of one family as they visit a relative at a nursing home on Christmas and how a cup of ice cream and a few moments of time brighten up the day for those who live there. Read about one woman's journey through surviving the loss of her husband and how the love and warmth of her family at Christmas strengthens her. Enjoy a sweet tale of how an old doll dressed in new clothes becomes the most precious gift and cherished memory a child ever receives. And, of course, it wouldn't be Christmas without a few stories celebrating the wonderment and joy children experience throughout this very special season.

Reviews

A Christmas Soup for the Soul Christmas, indeed!, September 27, 2007
Chicken Soup for the Soul stories are best known for delivering heart-warming stories that stay with you long after you've put the book down. This Christmas edition continues this tradition as it delivers wonderful stories from the heart with the flavor of "the most wonderful time of the year." Every story I read seemed to leave me with goosebumps and a tingling feeling throughout my body as each author poured their hearts onto each page. This collection is destined to become a classic!

Heartwarming during the Cold Winter, July 24, 2008
A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts: Stories to Warm Your Heart and Tips to Simplify Your Holidays

Chicken Soup books are always easy, inspiring, treasured reads. This one is no exception. I love the many heartwarming stories and recommend it to anyone who loves anything Christmas.

Christmas Blessings, January 5, 2008
I bought several copies of this beautiful book as gifts and was told by everyone, how much they thoroughly enjoyed this gem of a book. Should hit the number one best seller list along with the others. My own story, "The Twelve Days of Christmas" is included in this book and as an author and poet, I was quite happy to be in very good company with the other wonderful writers in a Chicken Soup Christmas!

Janet K. Brennan

Chicken Soup Just Keeps Getting Better & Better!!!, December 10, 2007
My favorite Chicken Soup book is always the new one that I'm reading. So, right now my favorite book is "A Chicken Soup for the Soul Christmas." Every story is a gem! What I like about the Chicken Soup books is that you can read a story a day, or a couple of stories a week, or sit down and read the whole book through! (Which I ofter do, because sometimes I just can't stop reading these stories.) One of my favorite things about Chicken Soup books is the wide variety of stories--stories by children, funny stories, touching stories, inspiring stories.

I can't wait for next years Christmas Chicken Soup book--I know that one will be my new favorite book.

I also love Christmas Gifts, Christmas Voices--a touching story in the wonderful "Chicken Soup" tradition.

Yes, the most wonderful time of the year..., September 13, 2007
What a wonderful and inspirational book about a holiday season that for generations has captivated young and old! I especially enjoyed the chapter "Through the Eyes of a Child" and the story "Love for Tots" written wonderfully by a 10-year old. Consider giving to a charity of your choice this upcoming holiday season - because every time we love, we give.
... Read more

Editorial Review

Editorial Review

Reviews

extensively rich and historical review of winter customs, February 7, 1999
This is a wonderful text full of history and thought, and beautiful illustrations. The author extensively explores the origins of numerous Christmas traditions,e.g., lights, evergreens, yule logs, etc. by tracing these customs to the occurance and celebration of the winter solstice, and in later history, to many Roman celebrations. The text adds greater richness, understanding, and appreciation to many Christmas traditions. The author also offers suggestions for celebrating the winter solstice as the important celestial event that it is.

Great book!, January 19, 2003
Very complete with history and lore as well as activites. Two thumbs up on this one. Great pictures too. Information is presented in a very straight-forward way. I love this book - made for a much more meaningful christmas for me this year. The table of contents has:

1) The Solstice Dream (this chapter talks to Solstice celebrations and lore across the world and across the ages - from egypt to china to Rome. Poetry and prose from other sources are included.) All chapters end with celebration activites

2) Child of Wonder (this chapter talks to the birth of different gods across the ages - such as apollo, mabon, jesus)

3) The Green Bough (this chapter talks to the symbolism of the tree, the use of evergreens versus cherry tree etc. Green man is also discussed)

4) Old Sir Christmas (this chapter talks to the jolly old elf as well as the Shaman in the Tree and others across the cultures)

5) The Solstice Animals (this is about the slaughter of animals - 'nough said there - go vegetarian!)

6) The 12 days of Christmas

At the end of the book is a few pages on additional resources/references which is pretty good.

Great book! Most complete I've found and I like how it looks across cultures.

Tradition and ritual without faith, November 14, 2004
I've always loved Christmas. But a few years ago I deconverted from faith; I found myself, as an atheist and humanist, longing for a connection to the holiday I loved. This book helped me forge a new perspective on, and a new connection with, Christmas as a worldly and human celebration.

Each chapter provides cross-cultural connections to the ideas, customs, and icons of Christmas. Even when Matthews seems to be reaching a bit, it makes for engaging reading, and provides the rest of us with a way to connect with America's (and much of the Western World's) most important holiday season. It's especially engaging to know the origins of certain figures and beliefs; rarely are the origins religious, but cultural and traditional. [My favorite chapter was on the Twelve Days of Christmas.] The presentation of faith-free rituals at the end of each chapter was especially welcome, and I have already incorporated some small, new traditions into my holiday activities.

I recommend it to readers of all faiths or non-faiths. Every open-minded reader can find something of interest. Only literal Fundamentalists will be offended!

An excellent text on the history of winter, February 4, 2000
One of the better books I have seen when it comes bringing religion and folklore together - from the origin of the Christmas tree to the meaning behind the Twelve Days of Christmas. A must buy to the pagan as well as the Christian.

Great book on Yule, March 24, 2002
I almost didn't buy this book because it had Christmas in the title and I supposed it would not have much in the way of the pagan holiday. I was very wrong. This is the best book I have ever read on the solstice. It tells of celebrating Yule before Christianity abducted it. "The Winter Solstice" has the look of an arty, coffee table book but it is definitely worth the read. It offers a couple of small rituals and some great phrases for ceremonies. It is more of a scholary history than a magickal book. I cannot wait to read it again next December to get me in the Yule spirit!

A gathering of winter traditions from many sources, February 6, 2005
Most people who celebrate Christmas know that numerous elements of our modern traditions come from older religions than Christianity, but the range of source traditions astounds me. There is, for instance, no one source of the practice of observing the winter solstice itself, of myths involving the death or sacrifice and rebirth of a deity, or of father and son symbols for the old year and the new. Many sources are cited in the book as possible origins of Santa Claus, of the giving of gifts, and the custom of bringing greenery indoors.

It's not the diversity of customs that fascinates me so much as the variety of myths and stories that impact on an emotional level. When I consider the winter solstice traditions presented here, as a whole, I realize how similar all cultures are in their most basic concerns. The winter solstice was a time of great disquiet to people who lived close to the earth, more than a couple of centuries ago. The shortening of days, scarcity of food, and intense cold of winter carried far deeper implications for those who lived directly off the land and couldn't quickly transport needed goods. It's no surprise some important and deeply meaningful traditions arose from the resulting insecurity about the future.

Whatever the reason behind the timing of Christmas so near the solstice, and whatever your beliefs about it or your reason for reading, you'll find a wealth of information in The Winter Solstice. This impressively researched book even contains ideas for creating celebrations and traditions of your own. It's a fitting tribute to this most ancient holy day. If your celebration centers around the birth of Jesus, never fear. There's a wealth of commentary and research included on traditions specific to Christianity. But an open mind is required to sift through the myth, legend, history, and blending of customs. This is not a book conducive to fundamentalist thinking about religion-any religion, Christian, pagan or otherwise. It's far better suited to those with a penchant for myth and speculation.

A few of the subjects covered in the first chapter are The Returning Sun, Chambers of the Sun and Sun-Rites, with mention of those ancient structures built for the purpose of calculating or demonstrating the sun's return at the turn of the solstice, such as Stonehenge in England, New Grange in Ireland, and Mayan ruins. Zuni houses in North America contained objects and windows designed to catch the rays of the returning sun. Saturnalia, New Year rites, the Celtic Calendar, and the sun gods of Egypt and elsewhere are also mentioned, as well as a fifteen hundred-year-old Jewish commentary on the Babylonian Talmud. This is just a taste, mind you, and only from the first chapter.

The information is presented in short sections, so it's easy to pick up and read a few paragraphs. But these paragraphs will easily draw you in for a longer read. It can be read straight through, or enjoyed as a coffee table book to share with friends, and to stimulate discussion and speculation. It's a must-read, for me, during the December holidays.

A beautiful and informative book, December 30, 2002
The Winter Solstice (as with the solstices and equinoxes) hold a special place in our world because anyone can celebrate them. So many cultures and religions have customs, beliefs, rituals that occur on or around the Solstice.

This book highlights some well known and not so well know European Solstice and Yule customs. It also delves quite a bit into Christmas customs that were influenced by eariler Pagan ones. But the information in this book is extended outside the Euro realm and reaches many cultures - really emphasising a common bond between all people.

The book is nice enough to offer as a gift or a coffetable treasure. It has a wonderful layout and lots of beautiful pictures, drawings, and poems. In the back of the book it has a couple of Rituals/ Plays that are suitable for public Ritual or a seasonal play.

This book can be enjoyed by anyone but definitely appeals to Pagans or curious/ liberal Christians.

A beautiful and thorough resource, November 12, 2009
I'm a teacher and the author of a book on the winter solstice for children. I wish this book had been available as a resource when I was writing mine. My book Is extensively researched, but I had to pull the pieces together from many scattered sources.

Mr. Matthews has done a remarkable job with this very slippery subject. The origins of solsltice traditions and its symbols are shrouded in the mists of time. It's not easy to disentagle the historical truth from myth and legend.

When I was teaching elementary school, the children in my class were from China, Japan, Mexico, the Phillipines, Saudi Arabia, and many other countries. Teaching about the winter solstice allowed me to bring all the various traditions together and to emphasize my students' common humanity.

Hats off to Mr. Matthews!

Ellen Jackson, author
THE WINTER SOLSTICE
The Winter Solstice

Solving the Mystery of Our Traditions, January 2, 2007
I absolutely loved this book and found it a great companion for the holidays. The author explains the background and history of Solstice, Christmas, Santa Claus, plant and animal symbols. He even explains the 12 Days of Christmas and includes activities, recipes, and rituals to celebrate the sacred days between 12/1 and 1/6.

This book is highly recommend for people wanting to know the why behind the celebrations.

Wonderful Guide to forming your own traditions, January 27, 2007
My family was looking to develop our own traditions and to understand why traditions where as they are today. This book was a wonderful source. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

A rich and fascinating collection, October 20, 2010
I don't usually like holiday-themed books, finding them to be gimmicky or cloyingly nostalgic, but this wonderful book is neither of those things. Ranging widely from well-known writers to small town newspaper archives, from memories of a Christmas season darkened by a mine disaster, to recipes from "Collinsville's Queen of Cookies," historian James Ballowe has assembled a fasinating collection of words and images. This is the culture and history of Illinois, revealed in accounts of Christmas and mid-winter traditions and celebrations.

I haven't had time to read everything yet, but favorites so far include Sandra Cisneros' memoir of her father, "Un Poquito de Tu Amor," and Ladonna Harrell Martin's "Belinda Grey and the Christmas Carol." And the 1968 photo of Slotkowski Sausage Co.'s float in the Chicago Christmas parade, which totally cracks me up, for some reason. Only thing missing, from the point of view of this exiled Chicagoan, is a photo of Marshall Field's decorated for Christmas.

The interior of the book is beautifully designed and a pleasure to look at. Of course, I may be somewhat prejudiced by the fact that Christmas in Illinois includes four illustrations and a short essay by my grandmother, Illinois naturalist May Theilgaard Watts. A worthy gift for anyone with their own memories of Christmas in Illinois.

Heartwarming, refreshing, December 10, 2010
This book is just a pleasure. Six years ago I got George Ella Lyons' Christmas in Kentucky--my home state, and enjoyed it all. This year I came across this one by James Ballowe about Illinois, where I spent my adult years, and it is just as nice. The articles are essay-sized, mostly previously unpublished, but entertaining first-person accounts going back to the eary days of statehood up to the present. The binding is gorgeous. This would be a great gift for any Illinoisan, whether at home there, or as a letter from home to bring out the best of the holiday season.

limited appeal, December 15, 2010
I found the book well written and timely to market it at Christmas. However I think it would only have appeal and interest to Illinoisans of which I am. It is a beautiful book with great cover. I sent it to my sister and she also enjoyed reading and knowing some of the people in the book. I could be bias as I attended the same HighSchool about the time the author was there. ... Read more

Editorial Review

A brand-new and revised edition of the hilarious guide to the national anti-holiday made famous by Seinfeld, complete with never-before-seen material, photos, and illustrations on how to prepare and enjoy your very own Festivus. ... Read more

Reviews

A good book for the rest of us..., October 25, 2005
I have in my paws a brand new copy of Festivus. It is very, very funny. I especially like the fact that the tone is wry (the author knows a bit too much about Festivus, and he knows he knows too much). The editorial comments--particularly under the picture of the poor cat with the lion cut--are very welcome indeed. Lord knows why people celebrate Festivus, but this book shows that they really do. Read all about it. Also, the book would make a good gift for people you like but doen't want to spend much on. Obviously, Seinfeld fans will eat it up.

Festivus Yes! Bagels No!, November 1, 2005
As anyone who has seen the Seinfield episode entitled, "The Strike," knows, Festivus is, was and will always be a holiday invented by George's father as a reaction against the commercialization of Christmas. For me and thousands (probably not tens of thousands), it has struck a chord and every December 23rd, we make sure the aluminum pole is up while we list our grievances and test our strength.

Allen Salkin has done a fantastic job of combining the lore and myth of Festivus with the truth and background of this mysterious, now-not-so-fictional holiday. (It turns out that some the co-creators of that particular Seinfeld episode had some family history around this important addition to the Winter Solstice calendar!)

As Festivus gains in popularity and contributions to the Human Fund overflow, I predict that this book will be a key addition to the religious doctrine of this solemn holiday.

Final disclosure/correction -- While I have some grievances, I never told anyone that I wanted my wife to get rid of her stuffed Tigers!

Everything you want to know about the holiday for the restivus, October 24, 2005
Festivus isn't just a holiday book, it is a cult classic. Forget about buying holly and a wreath this year, just get this book and your whole idea about the holidays will transform into something hilarious. Seriously, this book will make you cry with laughter and could end all of your "holiday blues".

An entertaining and comprehensive treatment, October 21, 2005
Everything you ever wanted to know about Festivus, and some stuff you would rather not know (nail impaled shrimp anyone?). Entertaining text and photographs, weird kind of scary drawings. Brings up some interesting ideas about religious celebration in general. Heck who knows, in 200 years Festivus might be as big as Halloween. Makes excellent bathroom reading.

Festivus...YESSS!, December 11, 2005
My friends and I always talked about having a Festivus party and thought we were the only ones original and subversive enough to attempt it, but as Allen Salkin thoroughly reveals, we were not. Turns out, people all over the country have been celebrating Festivus since the Seinfeld episode aired, adding their own uniquely hilarious twists on the 3 essential elements of the holiday; the pole, the airing of grievances, and the feats of strength! The book is packed with enough accounts and images of Festivus revelers nationwide to turn even the steeliest reader onto its low-budget charms. I received the book as a Secret Santa gift at work (ironic, no?) and am spreading the gospel to my two brothers, who will both find this tight little tome tucked into their respective stockings this holiday season.

And in the spirit of Festivus, Three Grievances:

1. Gypsies don't excite me the way they used to.
2. The girl across from me looks better in her denim mini.
3. My boss's refridgerator smells like a rancid bait shop.

Pant-wetting funniness!, October 24, 2005
Seriously, you'll need to be wearing a Depends (make that two) whilst reading this book! Allen Salkin and Jerry Stiller make a great comedic duo. After I read the book I read Allen Salkin's blog- this guy is hilarious! I am totally going to have my own Festivus party now. I need to train for thumb wrestling (read the book and you'll understand) Festivus for the rest of us!

A Festivus Miracle, November 15, 2005
Allen Salkin shows us the many ways that Frank Constanza's holiday has become such an important event for growing numbers of people every year. The author shows that Festivus is so much more than simply Feats of Strength and Airing of Grievances. The books offers recipes and other hints to help enjoy the best Festivus ever. This book is a sure fire hit, a hilariously wry treatment of a pop culture phenonema, one that that will help Festivus continue to thrive. The only thing missing is The Festivus Pole which, apparently spawned by the author's book, is now for sale at "TheFestivusPole" with the entire package you'll be sure to enjoy a Festivus Miracle.

Just Plain Fun, December 11, 2006
Allen Salkin is the most creative, quirky writer today. He takes Festivus and gives us a super clean, fun holiday that "the rest of us" can enjoy. Particularly if you can't stand the holidays, you can turn to Festivus - it's like group therapy for holiday nay-sayers. But I love Salkin's writing and follow his work closely. I suggest you dig into this fantastic piece of work, and by the way, it's a GREAT stocking stuffer too!!

KIND OF OKAY, I GUESS, December 5, 2005
I got this as a gift and didn't think I was going to like this but I didn't hate it. Mostly books that are about TV shows that have gone off the air feel kind of forced and depressing like a biography of the Olsen Twins or something but even though this has NOTHING to do with the Seinfield show it was kind of interesting. There sure are a lot of weird people out there looking for an excuse to have a party, that's for sure. I guess this isn't supposed to be a comedy book it's supposed to be like a travel guide to this one little corner of Americana and if that's what it's trying to do it's pleasant enough. Three stars, why not.

I knew there had to be a better way!, December 6, 2005
While "The Strike" wasn't quite as good or memorable as the "Puffy Shirt" or "Soup Nazi" episodes, the one thing it did bring was real-life celebration of Frank Costanza's Festivus. Oh, and what a merry, merry holiday it is! I had no idea so many people were actually celebrating this thing, but it's hard not to laugh at recipes like "Chocolate Salami" and song sheets for "So Good You Do Not Smell." I nearly fell off my couch reading Stiller's intro. Who knew he was a Prada and Gucci man? Salkin is a fine and smart writer, but like any good writer he doesn't overtell the stories and allows the humor to come naturally. Highly recommended if you hate getting stuck in Midtown during Christmas season, or are looking for a fun, inexpensive gift to give your friends who aren't deserving of your affection. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Originally broadcast on Christmas Eve 1994, A Prairie Home Christmas is a delightful compilation of all-time-favorite highlights from past holiday broadcasts of Garrison Keillor's A Prairie Home Companion.

Contents:
Christmas Time's a Comin'; Jordan Carols; Shop for Christmas Presents; Scrooge; Children, Go Where I Send Thee; The Twelve Days of Christmas; Christmas Gifts for the Staff; If It Doesn't Snow on Christmas; Settin' by the Fire; Nothing But a Child; Christ Child's Lullaby; Nowell: Owt of Your Sleep; Bach's Christmas Oratorio; A Polish Christmas with Walter Bobbie; Det Kimmer Nu; Oh How Lovely Is the Evening; Silent Night; Nine Lessons and Carols; Carol of the Children; Mr. Bergy's Christmas; Solstice Medley; The Christmas Pageant; There Are Angels Hovering Round; O Little Town of Bethlehem

Reviews

A fine Christmas entertainment collection, January 27, 2001
This collection of moments from Christmastime broadcasts of "A Prarie Home Companion" is a very good one. It features excellent music, much of it by the "Hopeful Gospel Quartet". It also has wonderful skits, including Tom Keith's amazingly funny sound effects version of the twelve days of Christmas, and a re-telling of the Christmas story by Garrison and the other actors. The only complaint that I would have about this CD set is that Garrison's brilliant storytelling is not the feature of this compilation. Nevertheless, this compilation is without question worth getting for all of those who enjoy "A Prarie Home Companion".

A Prairie Home Christmas, November 30, 2001
I originally bought this CD as a gift but was curious enough that I opened it and played it. I love it. Obviously, I'm keeping that copy and buying another! I am from the Midwest and haven't been back for Christmas in years. Garrison Keillor's wit and homespun stories, the music and the humor all make me anxious to get back there this year. A Prairie Home Christmas is just the kind of down-to-earth Christmas we all need....

A Wonderful, Warm Christmas Collection with Garrison and Company, December 27, 2008
This is an unexpected delight for the holiday season! A Prairie Home Christmas: With Garrison Keillor & Hundreds of Friends & Acquaintances (Lake Wobegon) is a collection of skits and musical numbers by Garrison Keillor (famed Lake Wobegon author and story teller...) and a wonderful ensemble of entertainers. I purchased it on a whim as I enjoy Garrison's humor so much, and I am so glad I did! The whole album is a joyful romp celebrating Christmas both as a religious holiday and as a fun, Santa-rich experience.

My favorite skit is when Santa starts telling weary shopper Dwayne he needs to 'stop sniveling and get shopping'. Suggesting gift items that include dried food, underwear and stamps. The accompanying song sticks with me throughout the season and gives me a giggle when I need it most.

Not exactly a traditional christmas music album, Prairie Home Christmas offers a lot of sweet, nostalgic, country Christmas charm in a radio show format, that's not to be missed. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

Finally, Someone Willing to Stand Up and Point Out the White Elephant in the Room, November 24, 2009
Finally, someone willing to stand up and point out the white elephant in the room... This is a refreshing book for its honesty and frankness. I have tried to have this conversation with my family for a few years, but to only find deaf ears on the subject.

In a perfect world, everyone would put a lot of thought and effort into their gift buying decisions. But that doesn't happen; not to belittle the efforts that people make, which are often very much in earnest, but the average person is likely so caught up in their own day-to-day life that they really aren't as in tune with the people they know as they think. Even family members rarely truly know what others like or want - ask any teenager on that one.

As someone who has spent his adult life trying to make very personal gift choices, I have come to learn two valuable things: One, even when I think I know someone well, I still don't live inside of that person's head and thus can never truly look at something from his or her perspective, and never fully know how much or little they appreciated it; and two, since about the age of twelve, I have rarely received gifts that I valued as much as the gift giver probably expected (and most often, I have found the gifts more unwanted than anything and a waste of the natural resources used to make them from my personal world view).

Whether the giver has been family or friend or lover, unless it was something I had already expressly showed a desire for, the gifts have most often missed the mark; and sometimes when asked for specific gift ideas, the buyer chooses a different brand or version (sometimes even a more expensive option) thinking it just as good, when in fact is not what I wanted, which leads to disappointment. I greatly dislike the whole gift idea list as it proves the point - if I have to give you a list (and vice-versa) I am better off just buying it for myself as would anyone I would be buying gifts for.

The best gift is the one that is least expected; one, because since it is not expected, disappointment is not likely; and two, because the gift given unexpectedly is often the one that has had the most thought put into.

Since our society is not likely to reverse course in the foreseeable future and remove the expectations of Christmas gift giving (and return to a celebration of the season as in olden days - we're talking hundreds of years here), I believe that the gift card is the absolute best solution and will be the only thing I list to my family (I only provide the list because ignoring the repeated requests for one is usually more effort than just providing one), and is likely the only gifts I will be giving this year - luckily, I know exactly where my family likes to shop AND they know exactly what they want or need.

There is one other option, and that is addressed well in a great companion book to this one: The Hundred Dollar Holiday by Bill McKibben: Hundred Dollar Holiday: The Case For A More Joyful Christmas. In this nice little book, Bill McKibben calls for a less wasteful Christmas that is more focused on the joy of spending time with family and friends and where the gift giving is restricted to a family total of $100 and where handmade gifts are strongly preferred.

In the end, I have changed my entire approach to life and it is centered around Less Stuff, More Experience.

UPDATE: There has been a lot of action in the comments area for reviews for this book, and it has mostly focused on the central theme of the book: whether to give gifts or not. I just wanted to add a little to my review by saying that this book also spends some time analyzing Christmas spending as whole from the use of credit cards to finance Christmas gift buying (as compared to "out-dated" ideas such as Christmas Clubs and Layaway) to whether the thought that the United States is the most consumptive nation during Christmas is true (should I ruin it for you? You might me surprised by the answers to this question). This book is more than a one dimensional look at Christmas.

>>>>>>><<<<<<<

A Guide to my Book Rating System:

1 star = The wood pulp would have been better utilized as toilet paper.
2 stars = Don't bother, clean your bathroom instead.
3 stars = Wasn't a waste of time, but it was time wasted.
4 stars = Good book, but not life altering.
5 stars = This book changed my world in at least some small way.

A Refreshing Antidote to the Buy Buy Buy Media, November 30, 2009
This book is brilliant. Look around you during the holidays. Most of us are actively trying to get "stuff" out of our lives. Clear the drawers, attic, garage, basement. The issue is not needing more stuff. The issue is needing less stuff. And then people give us more stuff for gifts. Unless the gift giver has brilliant mind reading powers, the "more stuff" they get for us is unlikely to be anything we really want, let alone need. All these gift givers are spending money to buy more stuff in a world that is already overflowing with stuff. (See "The Story of Stuff" on YouTube if you have not seen it before.)

Joel Waldfogel applies economic theory to our intuition in showing that the media and corporate hype around gift giving is misplaced. His book explains on many levels that conventional gift giving creates a huge amount of wasted time and money, both in America and abroad.

Joel says that Store Gift Cards area good solution for people who can use them.

And Joel says that for others, Charity Gift Cards are a great idea. As the creator of TisBest Charity Gift Cards, I am thrilled to see a Wharton professor using economics to back the Charity Gift Card idea - an idea whose time has come.

Thank you Joel for a refreshing book in the midst of holiday consumption hype!

About Time..., April 8, 2010
I have one family that we have made a pact NOT to buy gifts for at Christmas, and one family I cannot get to stop buying gifts at Christmas. Every year, I have extreme anxiety over gift buying for the one family, and every year I'm sure I fall short at what I give. Why do people feel the need to buy gifts??? For the person who thinks Christmas is about gift giving and the author missed the point, I think you are missing the point. Christ wanted people to love each other, first and foremost, and Christmas is one time the entire year where I feel MORE love for my community than the rest of the year. And I'm not even Christian! It's not about money - it's about love, friendship, being together, and enjoying family. Thanks for writing this book.

I am on your side Joel!, November 30, 2009
I loved this book! It was a very interesting read. The things that mean the most to us in life, especially as we reach our ending years, are not the gifts we were showered with, but the people who have entered our lives and brought enrichment, from them being who they are. The thought of someone using their hard earned money to buy you a gift, sometimes out of their thought of obligation, is just off kilter to me. I say use your hard earned money and spend it on your own trinkets of happiness, and just give me your friendship, love, and kindness, so to make me a better person; no gift you give me will do that. Your thoughts of wanting to give to me is all the gift I need.

The morning after..., December 3, 2009

Joel Waldfogel is really onto something with his book, Scroogenomics. The
chapter entitled, Have Yourself a Borrowed Little Christmas really caused
me to reflect on the days when layaway or Christmas Clubs for saving were
common. Those made so much sense, yet today people find themselves feeling
the pressure of holiday gift giving without the forethought to put money
aside ahead of time - hence the morning after regret and heaviness of
debt. When you go on to consider that the value of the gifts you gave is
substantially less, on average, than what you spent, the whole picture
looks rather grim. Where is the "holiday spirit" in that??

Fortunately, Scroogenomics offers a great gift solution: Charitable
giving. One of my family's traditions is to put together donations of
food and miscellaneous necessities for distribution at local food banks.
This is a family project that is festive and fun. I don't know anyone who
has accrued credit card debt for charitable giving - and giving represents
a feel-good opportunity to remember what the holidays are supposed to be
about: a celebration of giving and family. And that's something to feel
good about the morning after!

Takes some courage to write this book, December 3, 2009
I don't often see the words, "courageous" and "economist" in the same sentence, but I think it's appropriate with respect to Joel Waldfogel and his Scroogenomics book. Waldfogel's dry sense of humor softens some of the body blows he delivers when he discusses the foibles of holiday gift-giving. It's a highly researched, well-written book that reads quickly. Based on the reviews I see nearby, you'll either like a lot (I do)or you'll hate it. I don't see many in-betweeners here. The fact that so much of the review content is self-reflective may also indicate how Waldfogel's book hits home. He manages to write dispassionately about a topic that brings out the passions in many readers.

I was rather stunned to learn how long the pattern of massive holiday buying has been going on, and I was equally surprised to learn that it's a nearly global problem. I had no idea. I thought it was limited to my family.

I especially appreciate Waldfogel's suggestions for alternate gift-giving. The charity gift card suggestion is especially appealing to me. Thanks, professor, for taking on this task. You'll likely be vilified a bit. Courage.

Scroogenomics = YES!, December 1, 2009
Brilliant! A must read for our consumption-driven culture!

This book spoke to my dismay over years of awkwardly receiving well-intentioned, yet thoughtless, obligatory holiday gifts. It should not be surprising that, in my family, much of what we receive at holiday time gets donated to Goodwill or re-gifted to someone who would actually use or appreciate the item. The burden of STUFF is too great to keep gifts that are not truly valued for other than sentimental reasons.

Thank you, thank you Mr. Waldfogel, for calling out the charade that holiday gift giving often is. This book will, ironically, be among the (few) gifts I give this holiday season!

An economist's view of Christmas spending, December 7, 2009
People are conditioned to think that holiday spending is good for the economy. Even fiscal analysts read seasonal retail spending as an indicator of good or bad times. However, University of Pennsylvania professor Joel Waldfogel takes an economist's look at gift giving and pronounces it wasteful. Every time you receive a gift that's not what you want, the item loses value. For example, you wouldn't pay more than $10 for the ugly orange teapot Aunt Bea bought you for $50. What's the solution? Cash, of course, but giving cash is often seen as being in bad taste. How about gift cards? A little bit better, theorizes Waldfogel, but people don't always redeem gift cards, which generates waste as well. getAbstract recommends this grumpy professor's analysis of Christmas spending, which manages to be simultaneously fun and serious. Those with an interest in economics or a passion for looking at revered institutions from a fresh perspective will enjoy this little text. And, it makes a great stocking stuffer. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Editorial Review

...At the sound of footsteps along the hall Miss Terry looked up from the letter which she was reading for the sixth time. "Of course I would not see him," she said, pursing her lips into a hard line. "Certainly not!"A bump on the library door, as from an opposing knee, did duty for a knock. "Bring the box in here, Norah," said Miss Terry, holding open the door for her servant, who was gasping under the weightof a packing-case. "Set it down on the rug by the fire-place. I am going to look it over and burn up the rubbish this evening." "Yes'm," said Norah, as she set down the box with a thump. She stooped once more to pick up something which had fallen out when the cover was jarred open. It was a pink papier angel, such as are often hung from the top of Christmas trees as a crowning symbol. Norah stood holding it between thumb and finger, staring amazedly. Who would think to find such a bit of frivolity in the house of Miss Terry!Her mistress looked up from the fire, where the bit of writing was writhing painfully, and caught the expression of Norah's face. "What have you there?" she asked, frowning, as she took the object into her own hands. "The Christmas Angel!" she exclaimed under her breath. "I had quite forgotten it." Then as if it burned her fingers she thrust the little image back into the box and turned to Norah brusquely. "There, that's all. You can go now, Norah," she said. "Yes'm," answered the maid. She hesitated. "If you please'm, it's Christmas Eve." "Well, I believe so," snapped Miss Terry, who seemed to be in an awful mood,"What do you want?" Norah flushed; but she was hardened to her mistress's manner. "Only to ask if I may go out for a little while to see the decorations and hear the singing." ... ... Read more

Editorial Review

When a special activity evolves into a tradition within a family, it creates meaning, connection, and community and makes common occasions more momentous and memorable. Establishing a sense of stability and shared history has never been more important to parents than it is today, as families become more fractured and scattered. THE JOY OF FAMILY TRADITIONS offers more than 400 fresh ideas and creative approaches to cultivating birthday, anniversary, holiday, and other rite-of-passage and seasonal traditions that strengthen personal bonds and reflect a family's individual style, spirituality, and values. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Editorial Review

This book is a treasure trove of tomorrow's fond childhood memories, all mingled with a mix of colored thread, delicious cooking smells, softly sparkling candlelight, and the snatches of favorite songs.

Brimming with stories, poems, activities, things to make, and songs, All Year Round offers a friendly guide to the seasonal round of festivals. Helpful drawings and diagrams illustrate this practical book. It contains a wealth of experience that can help families find their own way around the year.

Parents are encouraged to develop their traditions and family ways using this as a springboard. As the authors say, "the words are ours, the festivals are yours."

The authors believe that observing a round of festivals is an enjoyable way of bringing rhythm into children's lives, a way of providing meaningful landmarks to look forward to. Experiencing the unfolding year through stories, poems, and making seasonal tables encourages a love of nature. Each festival has a character of its own, bringing a special gift to family life. Celebrating together is important for families in all kinds of ways. This book offers suggestions about how to get going to all those who wish to deepen their understanding of the festive year. ... Read more

Editorial Review

"Let’s have a parade" is the phrase that begins a beloved American tradition, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. In 1924, employees of the R. H. Macy and Company store in Herald Square, many of whom were immigrants and first-generation Americans, chose to give thanks for their good fortune in a manner reminiscent of the festive parades held in their native countries. The excitement and praise from crowds lining the route that first year led Macy’s to issue an immediate proclamation: the parade would become a tradition. Before the parade’s first decade passed, Macy’s welcomed the huge and spectacular helium character balloons that became its goodwill ambassadors. Since then, the parade has become a world-famous treasure. Through rare and historic images, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade offers readers a chance to reminisce, explore, and delight in eighty years of this thoroughly American celebration. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Chicken Soup for the Soul Christmas Treasury captures the holiday spirit through an extensive story collection that demonstrates the humor, profound joy, and spiritedness that envelops the holiday season known as Christmas.

Join popular humorist Dave Barry, bestselling author Robert Fulghum, renowned author and lecturer Joan Wester Anderson, among many others, as they recount the special moments that lend to the magic and joy of the holiday celebration.

Editorial Review

The Abbot's Ghost, A Christmas Story, A. M. Barnard 1867
The Sad Shepherd, A Christmas Story, Henry Van Dyke 1911
Christmas Comes but Once A Year, Luke Limner 1850
A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens 1843
A Budget of Christmas Tales by Charles Dickens and Others, 1885
The Haunted Man and the Ghost's Bargain, Charles Dickens 1907
Some Christmas Stories, Charles Dickens (1812-1870)
A Christmas Sermon, Robert Louis Stevenson 1900
The Birds' Christmas Carol, Kate Douglas Wiggin 1887
The Christmas Angel, Abbie Farwell Brown 1910
The Christmas Dinner, Shepherd Knapp 1921
The Old Peabody Pew, A Christmas Romance, Kate Douglas Wiggin 1907
The Spirit of Christmas, Henry Van Dyke 1911
The Night Before Christmas, Clement Moore 1823
Trifles for the Christmas Holidays, H. S. Armstrong 1869
A Little Book for Christmas, Cyrus Townsend Brady 1917
Old Christmas From the Sketch Book of Washington Irving, 1886
Christmas Stories And Legends, PHEBE A. CURTISS 1916
Christmas: Its Origin and Associations, William Francis Dawson 1902
... Read more

Editorial Review

Good Luck Life is the first book to explain the meanings of Chinese rituals and to offer advice on when and how to plan for Chinese holidays and special occasions such as Chinese weddings, the Red Egg and Ginger party to welcome a new baby, significant birthdays, and the inevitable funeral. Packed with practical information, Good Luck Life contains an abundance of facts, legends, foods, old-village recipes, and quick planning guides for Chinese New Year, Clear Brightness, Dragon Boat, Mid-Autumn, and many other festivals.

Written with warmth and wit, Good Luck Life is beautifully designed as an easily accessible cultural guide that includes an explanation of the Lunar Calendar, tips on Chinese table etiquette for dining with confidence, and dos and don'ts from wise Auntie Lao, who recounts ancient Chinese beliefs and superstitions. This is your map for celebrating a good luck life. ... Read more

Editorial Review

For millions of people the world over, the annual visit to a department store to view the festive window displays and visit Santa in his winter wonderland is a treasured holiday tradition. In America, the Thanksgiving holiday is almost inconceivable without Macy's annual parade. But how did holiday traditions like this begin? Who are the behind-the-scenes magicians that conjure up this unique blend of imagination, showmanship, and salesmanship?

Holidays on Display is a comprehensive overview of the art and industry of the holiday display. Author William L. Bird, Jr., traces its evolution as holiday decorations moved from shop windows to building exteriors and out into the street in the form of parade floats. In this fascinating and colorful history we are introduced to turn-of-the-century "trimmers" hired by merchants to maintain product displays, and we marvel as advances in lighting, animation, and miniaturization lead to the incredible feats of creative self-expression practiced by today's window artists. Packed with rarely seen photographs and ephemera, Holidays on Display makes it easy to see why we have such lasting emotional attachments to animated Christmas windows, passing parades, and the ambient glow of holiday lights. ... Read more

Reviews

Not what I expected - not bad, not good either., August 7, 2009
This book definitely was not what I was expecting. I usually base my purchases on the reviews of others - this item was no exception. I did however struggle since there was only one review and it was a bit vague as to what the book was about. Even the description of the book was a little vague, I thought.

What this book is: A great history on the art of window decorating and parade float making - the details are good, and the pictures are nice as well. I did find some of the information interesting, however it wasn't what I was expecting. There were some photos, but they were more to depict the literature given to those who enrolled in the window display vocational schools and some of the catalogs for window & store display items. It is an account of how window dressing became popular, and how most of the individuals who did the displays were men who had a balance of creativity, business sense, and carpentry skills. It also details how this evolved into designing parade floats and the mail order companies that sprang up specializing in display/design kits.


What this book IS NOT: A collection of photographs of various window displays at Christmastime and other holidays. I was hoping for images of department store windows - like the ones seen in "A Christmas Story" where families gathered around on a winter evening taking in all the sights and sounds around them. Nor is it a collection of memories of those who remember the times when it was a family tradition to have an outing into town just to see the displays and visit with Santa and his elves. (If any one knows of books like that please let me know!!)

If you're interested in the art of window decorating, displays, or parade floats, this book is for you. One tidbit I didn't know until I read through this book is that Frank L Baum was a window display designer.

Art Of Display, October 24, 2009
More about the art of display and such and not so much photos of old Christmas window displays. It is still a nice book to have if you are a decorator or interior designer.

A vivid set of color photos capturing department store festive window displays, December 20, 2009
Holidays on Display provides a vivid set of color photos capturing department store festive window displays and reviews the overall art of the holiday display. The author traces this display's changes from basic holiday decorations to works of art, floats, and more, offering a fine history of rare photos and ephemera in the process. Any library strong in holiday art needs this.

very interesting, April 11, 2009
i like anything that has to do with Christmas because that's my business. I like the old way things were done. ... Read more