The Christmas Book

These days, in the long, cold December weeks leading up to Christmas, we seem to forget the tradtional nativity story we all know and love and spend more time frantically panicking about how to secure the latest and hippest toys. We lose sight of the glorious Christmas rituals that have existed for generations and worry about the price of Brussels sprouts and how we're going to squeeze the turkey into the oven. In this charming book, Patrick Harding attempts to bring these traditions back to life, and unravels the myths and mysteries surrounding our favourite time of year. The Christmas Book is a treasure chest of fascinating facts surrounding the magic of Christmas, all in one delightful and handy volume. From setting the record straight about Jesus' birth, to determining how much of our Christmas story could have really taken place, from explaining what a real Yule log is, to tracking the evolution of the Christmas card, there's something in here to interest and entertain everyone, young and old alike. This fascinating read is guaranteed to enrich the festive experience of all who read it, whether a Christmas lover of cynical Scrooge.

After gaining his doctorate, Partrick Harding enjoyed over 25 years as a university lecturer. He now enlightens adults about herbal medicines, wild and garden flowers, mushrooms, trees and Christmas! He has explored Christmas customs on television, radio and in the press. He is married with two children - who know that Patrick's beard is real! He lives in Sheffield in a house with two chimneys.