Smashbomb

Search

Search results

All (5000)

Content

Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2518 KP) rated Christmas Past in Books

Dec 15, 2022 (Updated Dec 15, 2022)

Christmas Past

Brian Earl | 2022 | History & Politics

8.0

(1 Ratings)

Book Rating

A Look at Christmas Traditions Past and Present

Have you ever wondered why we celebrate Christmas the way we do? If so, this book is for you. It takes a look at four categories: food, entertainment, sights and sounds, and society. Each category gets several chapters that focus on specific things like mince pies or candy canes, Rudolph, lights, and Christmas cards. We get a look at the origins, the rise, and sometimes the fall, of these old traditions.

This book is purely looking at the secular, pop culture celebration of Christmas, although the religious aspect does pop up occasionally, most noticeably in the chapter on “Silent Night.” A couple of chapters seem a bit vague, and the writing can be dry at times, but those are minor complaints. On the whole, this was a fascinating look at where our traditions came from, both those we still use today and those that have faded over time. I am not familiar with the author’s pod cast, but my understanding is much of this material first appeared there. As a Christmas lover, I enjoyed learning more about the holiday. If that’s you, you’ll enjoy this book as well.

Kudos

Ruth Frampton (577 KP) rated Caillou: Happy Holidays! in Books

Apr 10, 2018

Another contribution from this bright, familiar series. this book can quickly become a favourite and whilst this one is particular to the holiday season, Caillou has several different adventures for your child to pick up. The idea of being able to support a little one in the exciting build up to Christmas alongside introducing them to the wider world and traditions of other cultures is a wonderful idea and one to be applauded. Who knows, reading this book may add to your own christmas traditions.