With CHRISTMAS in the title, many might believe this to be a book for children. Certainly, some pages could be -- with mention of the colorful Yuletide traditions that have captivated young ones for generations.

But this book goes beyond nursery rhyme for a deeper look at quintessential Yuletide folklore.

Explore the origins of the iconic candy cane; the basis of cherished traditions like ornaments, Christmas cards, and hanging stockings; and the stories behind influential classics such as "Yes Virginia, There Is a Santa Claus". Featuring tongue-in-cheek hints and historical facts, this book delves into the ceremony, kitsch, and klatsch of Christmas, with extraordinary stories and poems prompting the need for tissues ... and it even comes with a Yule Log recipe!

Brenda Weston