Laura L. (lauraofharvestlane) reviewed on 12/24/2012 + 85 more book reviews

Christmas of long ago. It's not always been commercial. It's not always been about Santa Claus. But, did you know that it's not always been about Jesus? Christmas used to be about wild parties and worshipping everything but Jesus. Until the nineteenth century. Someone with a "round little belly that shook when he laughed like a bowl full of jelly" and someone who thought Christmas a humbug, or rather their authors, made a huge impact on how Christmas has been celebrated ever since.



I like to read Christmas books aloud to the children during December. They can count this one as history! Ace Collins tells stories of the origins of Advent, Boxing Day, candy canes, the colors of Christmas, holly, mistletoe, gifts, lights, stockings, poinsettias, Xmas, and fifteen other Christmas traditions. Some of the origins might just surprise you. Do click through and read a little of this book.








Zondervan's description:

"The cheer of a crackling hearth fire.
Colorful cards from friends and loved ones.
An evergreen tree festooned with ornaments.



The golden traditions of Christmas---gifts, wreaths, stockings, carols, mistletoe, and more---infuse our celebration of the season with meaning and glowing memories. And, in ways you may not realize, they point us to the birth of Christ.
Stories Behind the Great Traditions of Christmas reveals the people, places, and events that shaped the best-loved customs of this merriest of holidays. Here are spiritual insights, true-life tales, and captivating legends to intrigue you and your family and bring new luster and depth to your celebration of Jesus birth. Discover how
* after eighteen centuries of all but ignoring the event, churches began to open the door for believers to commemorate Jesus incarnation.
* the evergreen tree, once a central theme in the worship practices of pagan cultures, came to represent the everlasting love of God.
* the magis three gifts---gold, frankincense, and myrrh---are filled with spiritual symbolism.
The traditions of Christmas lend beauty, awe, and hope to the holiday, causing people all over the world to anticipate it with joy. The stories in this book will warm your heart as you rediscover the true and eternal significance of Christmas."

I received this book from Zondervan in exchange for an honest review.

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