Monthly Book Review

I just completed reading the most wonderful book. Since the book's title and cover instill a feeling of a quiet homespun Christmas, I'd planned to read it closer to the holiday, but I just could not wait any longer, and was so glad I decided not to wait. It turned out to be the perfect companion for this time of the year.

"The Old Magic of Christmas: Yuletide Traditions for the Darkest Days of the Year" by Linda Raedisch is not only filled with great old myths and legends from the past--tales of witches, elves, ghosts, fairies, and household sprites-- but the author has also included some great recipes and crafts, including easy to do directions, for the holiday season. Within its cover we are treated to tales of characters such as St. Nicholas, Frau Holle, and Berchta as well. Indeed, this book offers the reader a fascinating journey back in time, to a time that our European ancestors gathered around the hearth  on those cold, dark winter nights and told stories of the gods/goddesses, creatures, and folk magic practices that our Pagan and early Christian ancestors believed in. There is also the added benefit of a complete

According to the book description....

'Not so very long ago, Yuletide was as much a chilling season of ghosts and witches as it was a festival of goodwill. In The Old Magic of Christmas, you’ll rub elbows with veiled spirits, learn the true perils of elves, and discover a bestiary of enchanted creatures. Rife with the more frightful characters from folklore and the season’s most petulant ghosts, this book takes you on a spooky sleigh ride from the silvered firs of a winter forest to the mirrored halls of the Snow Queen. Along the way, you’ll discover how to bring the festivities into your home with cookie recipes and craft instructions, as well as tips for delving more deeply into your relationship with the unseen.'

I turned  the lights out, lit a few candles, settled in my chair with Miss Minga at my feet, and my trusty Kindle White.  Couldn't stop reading.  By the way, this is the same author was the same who wrote "Night of the Witches," another totally awesome book.