The Story Of Christmas by Barbara Cooney

A Time To Celebrate

For Christmas all over the world, Christmas is a special day, full of wonder. And while the story of Jesus' birth is at the heart of the celebration, the traditions surrounding it are varied and diverse.

In this classic text, Barbra Cooney offers readers a retelling of the timeless Christmas story with a beautiful explanation of the origins of many cherished and beloved customs from around the world. With charming illustrations by Loretta Krupinski, and fun holiday activities by the publishyer, this book will be treasured for many Christmases to come.' Cooney begins by conveying the feeling of excitement that surrounds Christmas and then slips easily into examining the holiday' s history. The religious significance of Jesus' birth is first related, followed by explanations of older widwinter celebrations (for example, Yule and Saturnalia) that show the blending of various customs into one special season. . . . There is a lot of information in this little book, including recipes for rolled Christmas cookies and instructions for making a clove-covered orange, and a pinecone bird feeder.