Average customer rating:
- THIS BOOK ROCKS!!!
- BUY THIS BOOK
- Superstar book!
- Inspiring
- Holiday Knitting Looks Enticing
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Handknit Holidays: Knitting Year-Round for Christmas, Hanukkah, and Winter Solstice
Melanie Falick
Manufacturer: "Stewart, Tabori and Chang"
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 1584794542 |
Book Description
For many people, the best part of the winter holidays is the anticipation: planning the perfect gifts, decorating the house, looking forward to seeing family and friends. Holidays can be particularly special for knitters, whose preparations often start months in advance and involve their own creations. In Handknit Holidays best-selling knitting author Melanie Falick presents an eclectic collection of more than 50 original gifts, decorations, and clothing pieces for Christmas, Hanukkah, and the winter solstice, providing year-round inspiration for knitters of all levels.
Created by top knitwear designers, the projects include colorful ornaments; funky and classic Christmas stockings; a wire-and-bead menorah; sparkly ribbon scarves; a poncho and matching dog sweater; and a range of super-quick projects for that last-minute holiday rush, from a Santa hat, to elf caps, to flower pins. Rounding out the volume are a few grand projects-an Aran tree skirt, a patchwork afghan, a lace shawl-destined to become family heirlooms, plus features on such topics as the origin of the Christmas stocking, the meaning of the winter solstice, knitting for charities, strategies for finishing holiday knitting (on schedule!), and even a delicious recipe for festive crescent cookies.
Beautifully photographed by Susan Pittard, Handknit Holidays is a creative celebration of the holiday season and a treasure for all knitters who seek to bring more of their own handwork-and artistry-into their daily lives and their holiday festivities.
Customer Reviews:
THIS BOOK ROCKS!!!.......2007-09-21
I love this book. The variety of patterns in this book are great. I can't wait to start knitting Christmas presents. I plan on making the ruffle scarf first.
BUY THIS BOOK.......2007-08-24
For some reason the cover of this book just turns me off. I wasn't interested in it forever. Until of course, I was at a bookstore thumbing through it. I had to buy it. There are some fantastic knits in there. The Santa hat is a MUST make. I plan to do it for this holiday. There are also lovely, strange and totally enticing sweaters, socks and such. The patterns also seem to pass the gamut of easy to quiet difficult and there is a section on gifts, knitted gift packaging and bows.
Superstar book!.......2007-01-07
This is a beautiful book, more than a useful book. I haven't made anything from it yet, and I don't know whether the patterns are faulty or unclear -- but the photographs sure are gorgeous!! Some of the patterns I am sure I will never make (like some of the hats, specifically), but the inspiration is wonderful! It makes me eager for the holiday season.
Inspiring.......2007-01-03
Very inspiring. The beautiful photography and selection of projects makes the reader feel all are possible.
Holiday Knitting Looks Enticing.......2006-11-05
I loved browsing through this book and planning my holiday gift knitting. I wish I had bought it in the summer so I would have had more time to make some of the lovely projects in the book. Lots of great ideas...some easy...some challenging. J.M.
Amazon.com
Summer solstice celebrants will find plenty of inspirational rituals, magic spells, and recipes in Anna Franklin's Midsummer. As in her previous book about the early fall festival of Lammas, Franklin can be whimsical as well as reverent. From the building of a magical bonfire to the staging of elaborate solstice rituals involving priests and priestesses, Franklin offers something for every level of pagan. In the section on "Midsummer Magic and Divination," Franklin gives instructions for placing various herbs and charms beneath the pillow to welcome prophetic dreams. Those who are inspired by the more romantic Shakespearean take on Midsummer's Eve can try some of Franklin's love divination techniques, such as flicking an apple seed toward the ceiling to see if your love is requited. Franklin also gives specific instructions for performing the "Rites of Midsummer." For instance, "The altar should be decorated with golds and yellows--this theme is echoed through candles, clothes and flowers.... Centrally placed should be a sun wheel or sun representation." And for the Martha Stewart-style pagan there are some excellent recipes, including Anise Tea and Comfrey Fritters. --Gail Hudson
Book Description
Celebrate Midsummer-A Day of Warmth and Light, A Night of Fairy Folk and Magic
Midsummer is one of the most ancient, widespread, and joyful Pagan festivals. The sun rises to the height of its power on the summer solstice, and Midsummer Eve is filled with fairy mischief and magic. Anna Franklin reveals the origins and customs of this enchanting holiday with:
Myths and lore: The gods and goddesses of Midsummer, rolling wheels, the Midsummer tree, circle dancing, and torchlight processionsMidsummer magic and divination: Fairy contact, spells, empowering magical tools with solstice sun energy, Midsummer Eve pillow divinationTraditional summertime treats: Elderflower Fritters, Gooseberry Fool, Coamhain Soup, Strawberry Wine, Heather Ale, Clary Sage TeaSeasonal rituals: Rite of the Oak King and the Holly King, Cornish Flower Ritual, Witch Rite for Midsummer Day, Drawing Down the SunMidsummer herb craft: Gathering and drying herbs for magical oils, incenses, inks, and teas; herb recipes, from Amun Ra to Sun Goddess OilFirst Runner Up for the 2003 Coaltion of Visionary Resources (COVR) Award for Best Non-fiction Book
Customer Reviews:
A fun book on Summer Solstice.......2007-06-07
This book is a great collection of everything under the sun for solstice. The author really threw in a little bit of everything - ancient holiday customs, spellwork, recipes, and suggested rituals for the holiday. The sections are well marked, and well layed-out, so it's easy to flip through and find something quickly.
The only downside to the material is that in covering such a mix of topics, the information is very surface, and only a smattering of sun deities and cultures get touched on. Of course this is not meant to be a dry scholarly tome, but a fun book to flip through and use. I recommend it to anyone wanting to celebrate their own SS or just read more about it.
Get the whole series.......2007-05-07
Each Llewellen book has a cool introduction about the history of the holiday. I recommend all the sabbat books in this series - - they have a lot more information than in any individual sabbat book.
So what ARE the customs?.......2007-05-05
Midsummer is my favorite time of celebration. The longest day of the year is recognized by numerous cultures and embraced by people all over the world. What is it all about, really? It is a magickal time with many traditions and customs to honor it. Anna Franklin explains them all and invites you to embrace the holiday.
Franklin begins with the origins of the Summer Solstice. Technically, the word Solstice means "sun stands still" and the sun may appear to do just that on the longest day. But there is much more to it than that. Midsummer is one of four solar festivals that mark the wheel of the year. It is likely a time that has been noted since people started taking notice of such things, thousands of years ago. The Celts and Druids, the Saxons, Finnish, Romans, Greeks, Islams, Russians, Europeans, Spanish, Americans, and many others, all have some part in the history and traditions known as Summer Solstice.
So what ARE the customs? They are as varied and many as there are those who honor the day. Some more notable customs include bonfires, torchlight processions, circle dancing, and divination. Then there are the very simplest of customs, such as my children staying up late to fill a jar with fireflies and letting them go again with a wish before bed. Franklin explains them all, very well, and goes on to explain the details of the customs and what brought them about. She even explains the conflict of the actual date of the day, the eve and the confusion of the name MID summer, when in many areas, Summer has just begun at the time of celebration.
Being a magickal time, optimum for fairy spotting, and other mystical adventures, "Midsummer" includes a few tips on divination, including Tarot card directions, the use of Runes, playing cards, and Oghams. The use of crystals and gems is something that many cultural traditions adhere to; the inclusion of a list of properties and descriptions is a useful portion of the book. Since Midsummer is the best time to make a magickal wand, Franklin offers instructions, advice and a list of wood properties for your information and a little story of how she followed the teachings in her own quest for a branch. And what book on Midsummer would be complete without a few spells for the beginner to work?
Herb craft is something easily worked on at this time of year, as the herbs have been growing nicely and can even benefit from your taking a sprig or two to dry. "Midsummer" offers plenty of recipes for the herbalist to enjoy, from a simple tea for the nerves to detailed guides to making incense. More substantial recipes for traditional Midsummer foods are also included.
Detailed directions for Rites and Rituals, including handfasting, fill a complete chapter. What follows are several useful appendixes of such things as animal totem descriptions, a calendar of festivals, and Gods and Goddesses. You could not find a more complete guide to the Summer Solstice, and what's more is the tone in which Anna Franklin offers this information is embracing and encouraging. For anyone wanting to celebrate the Summertime, from the simple joy of catching fireflies to the student of cultural traditions, and the experienced circle dancer, "Midsummer" is a must have for your collection. (Review originally written on 6/17/03)
Summer Magick.......2007-03-29
I have not fully read this one yet, but when looking up certain things, I find it has the same layout as my books on the first three holidays. Full of old traditions, lore, which I LOVE, recipes, and positive spells and rituals to make everyday life just a little happier. I would recommend these and any of the holiday books to anyone who really wants to learn about the old ways and incorporate them into their lives.
Another fun book!.......2003-11-27
Lots of great ideas and history on midsummer customs - drawing from ancient times. There's a whole chapter on divination (tarrot, runes etc) - fairy contact too. Crystals and their properties are discussed as is making a wand, and working with herbs to make special oils and teas etc. There are a number of recipes. There's a section on animal totems for midsummer but I've found better books on totems (check out Jamie Sams). Of the differnt Sabbat books, this one seems to have more spells, potions, divination and magic. It a really fun book and I'm glad I bought it - I'll certainly be doing some crafting from it but I'm only giving it 4 stars because I think the whole relationship/connection to mother earth is too light.
Book Description
The World Fantasy Award-winning author's foray into the modern world-now in paperback.
No stranger to the realms of myth and magic, World Fantasy Award-winning author Patricia A. McKillip presents her first contemporary fantasy in many years-a tale of the tangled lives mere mortals lead, when they turn their eyes from the beauty and mystery that lie just outside of the everyday...
When bookstore owner Sylvia Lynn returns to her childhood home in upstate New York, she meets the Fiber Guild-a group of local women who meet to knit, embroider, and sew-and learns why her grandmother watches her so closely. A primitive power exists in the forest, a force the Fiber Guild seeks to bind in its stitches and weavings. And Sylvia is no stranger to the woods
Download Description
"No stranger to the realms of myth and magic, World Fantasy Award winning author Patricia A. McKillip presents her first contemporary fantasy in years. Solstice Wood is a tale of the tangled lives we mere mortals lead, when we turn our eyes from the beauty and mystery that lie just outside of the everyday. When her beloved grandfather dies, bookstore owner Sylvia Lynn knows she must finally return to her childhood home in upstate New York and face the grandmother who raised her and the woods which so beguiled- and frightened-her. But it's not until she meets the Fiber Guild-a group of local women who meet to knit, embroider, and sew-that Sylvia learns why her grandmother watches her so. A primitive power exists in the forest, a force the Fiber Guild seeks to bind in its stitches and weavings. And Sylvia is no stranger to the woods."
Customer Reviews:
I Really Enjoyed This!.......2007-06-30
I love Patricia McKillip's work because of her writing style. I really love the way she uses words to bring out feelings and meaning. This book started out slowly for me. The first character, Sylvia is at home with her partner and the tenuous relationship is described. Syl gets the call to go back to her grandmother's house for a funeral and she is reunited with family. It took several chapters of the author describing the family and what was happening there for my interest to be piqued. I think I started to really feel interested when I read that Syl was going to her Grandmother's Fiber Guild meeting and somehow I knew that there was some secret to it. After that, the plot became more interesting for me and moved more quickly. As the story unfolds, people are trapped in the faery world and some of the faeries come into ours. I wondered what was going to happen and how it was going to be resolved. The technique of switching points of view between chapters also makes the book more interesting.
Another thing that I liked about this book is that it had a moral, a life lesson connected to the plot that made me think afterwards. All the women in the Fiber Guild worked so hard to keep our world separated from the faery world. This was done not because of bad experiences, but because of a folk lore tradition of depicting people of that world in a bad light. I think it is that we all have our predjudices about different types of people. These predjudices limit us and keep us from having new and different experiences. We really do need to sort out which ones of our fears are well founded. We don't want to be trapped by our fears as the people in this story were for so long.
I hope you will read this book!
Hooked me on McKillip.......2007-05-04
I had never read any of Patricia McKillip's books before, and so loved this novel that I've been seeking out all of her others---which I also love! Thanks Patricia, for your imaginative, poetic and compelling writing!
Readable, but not her best work.......2006-10-13
I adore Winter Rose, just as I adore most of McKillip's work, and I was looking forward to this title.
It's--ok. McKillip's prose is, as ever, beautiful. Sylvia and the Changeling are both interesting characters, and there is some truly haunting material here.
However, the fact remains that McKillip is not really suited to writing with a Message (I can't think of any author that is, really), and this book has a Message, much as Something Rich and Strange had a Message.
Nor does Mckillip truly expect her readers to show much intelligence in understanding the Message--it sticks up painfully all through the novel and then is announced at the end by the Faerie Queen, just in case we'd missed it.
If you really love Mckillip, and you want to read everything, go ahead & read it--there are some wortwhile nuggets here and there. If you only like her, or are reading her for the first time, skip this book. Read Winter Rose instead.
Solstice Wood is terrific!!!.......2006-10-04
Sylvia Lynn is Rois' (from Winter Rose) four times great granddaughter and Lynn Hall has been left to her after the death of her grandfather. She has moved a continent away from Lynn Hall and her grandparents, because like Rois and Corbet she is half- fay. Her grandmother Iris has been the leader of the Fiber Guild, which she describes as a sewing circle, but it's more of a coven about fear -- and good food-- and binding up the rents between this world and the Otherworld.
Owen, Sylvia's near -relation thinks:
"The heir to Lynn Hall had just walked out of the world into fairyland. The heir to Lynn Hall, born to guard, and watch, and keep all passageways locked againsr the wood- folk, was one of them herself. And one of us.
And so was the young man who had stolen my daughter's heart."
This is an excellent tale, well worth reading and owning. I liked the varying POV and contemporary setting very much.
Graceful and enchanting.......2006-08-09
McKillip is a true master of the fairy tale. Solstice Wood is set many, many years after her wonderful tale, Winer Rois (which I devoured in one setting!) It may be helpful to pick up that book before reading this, as sort of a background because McKillip doesn't delve much into what happened in Winter Rois, she just sort of uses it for a setup. Syl the main character is part fay, part human, whom has hid her heritage from her grandmother her whole life and must come to terms with this upon the death of her grandfather (whom embraced the fay and the wild wood in which they lived.) There is not a ton of action, but what action there is is well wrought. The characters are well described and the plot is solid. I know Amazon toted "The Stolen Child" as the "new" fairy tale but I believe Solstice Wood to be a much better selection.
Product Description
The Pontiac Solstice Book traces this remarkable new roadster from beginning to end - conception through development and on into production. This panoramic, oversized (9x12 inches) hardcover book's eight chapters, 130 pages and 192 color pictures highlight the GM designers, engineers and managers who transformed Bob Lutz's idea into reality in a record 27 months.
The book goes into extensive detail about the turbocharged GXP, V8 conversions, the Solstice as race car, manufacturing processes and what's available in the way of accessories and options.
The book's author is engineer/racer/writer Gary Witzenburg. Bob Lutz, GM's global vice chairman, contributed the foreword.
If ever you've lusted after a true American sports car and one of Detroit's greater performance bargains, the Solstice is it. Here's a car that's a pleasure to look at and a kick to drive. Read all about it in The Pontiac Solstice Book.
Customer Reviews:
A must buy for ANY Solstice fan.......2007-07-03
I had the pleasure to meet the author at the 2nd Annual North American Solstice Meet this year and his book is a great addition to any Solstice fan/owners library. The book gives you a look into the making of the Solstice and an insiders view of "behind the scenes" issues. The book also has some nice pictures and introduces you to the guys that made the car possible. A must have for any Solstice fan!
GREAT COLLECTIBLE.......2007-06-27
Book has all the info you need on the Solstice. A great item to hold on to with the car as they both increase in value.
Super Solstice Book.......2007-03-03
This is a great book, informative, interesting, and beautifully laid out. It tells the story not just of this very unusual car, but also of the people who conceived of it, designed it, and made it happen: the human part of the story. There are a lot of gorgeous photos.
Book Description
Brimming with stories, activities, folklore, and recipes, this popular holiday gift book traces the history behind many sacred traditions of the season and provides practical suggestions for celebrating the Winter Solstice as a joyous, life-affirming festival.
Customer Reviews:
Wonderful Guide to forming your own traditions.......2007-01-27
My family was looking to develop our own traditions and to understand why traditions where as they are today. This book was a wonderful source.
Solving the Mystery of Our Traditions.......2007-01-03
I absolutely loved this book and found it a great companion for the holidays. The author explains the background and history of Solstice, Christmas, Santa Claus, plant and animal symbols. He even explains the 12 Days of Christmas and includes activities, recipes, and rituals to celebrate the sacred days between 12/1 and 1/6.
This book is highly recommend for people wanting to know the why behind the celebrations.
A gathering of winter traditions from many sources.......2005-02-07
Most people who celebrate Christmas know that numerous elements of our modern traditions come from older religions than Christianity, but the range of source traditions astounds me. There is, for instance, no one source of the practice of observing the winter solstice itself, of myths involving the death or sacrifice and rebirth of a deity, or of father and son symbols for the old year and the new. Many sources are cited in the book as possible origins of Santa Claus, of the giving of gifts, and the custom of bringing greenery indoors.
It's not the diversity of customs that fascinates me so much as the variety of myths and stories that impact on an emotional level. When I consider the winter solstice traditions presented here, as a whole, I realize how similar all cultures are in their most basic concerns. The winter solstice was a time of great disquiet to people who lived close to the earth, more than a couple of centuries ago. The shortening of days, scarcity of food, and intense cold of winter carried far deeper implications for those who lived directly off the land and couldn't quickly transport needed goods. It's no surprise some important and deeply meaningful traditions arose from the resulting insecurity about the future.
Whatever the reason behind the timing of Christmas so near the solstice, and whatever your beliefs about it or your reason for reading, you'll find a wealth of information in The Winter Solstice. This impressively researched book even contains ideas for creating celebrations and traditions of your own. It's a fitting tribute to this most ancient holy day. If your celebration centers around the birth of Jesus, never fear. There's a wealth of commentary and research included on traditions specific to Christianity. But an open mind is required to sift through the myth, legend, history, and blending of customs. This is not a book conducive to fundamentalist thinking about religion-any religion, Christian, pagan or otherwise. It's far better suited to those with a penchant for myth and speculation.
A few of the subjects covered in the first chapter are The Returning Sun, Chambers of the Sun and Sun-Rites, with mention of those ancient structures built for the purpose of calculating or demonstrating the sun's return at the turn of the solstice, such as Stonehenge in England, New Grange in Ireland, and Mayan ruins. Zuni houses in North America contained objects and windows designed to catch the rays of the returning sun. Saturnalia, New Year rites, the Celtic Calendar, and the sun gods of Egypt and elsewhere are also mentioned, as well as a fifteen hundred-year-old Jewish commentary on the Babylonian Talmud. This is just a taste, mind you, and only from the first chapter.
The information is presented in short sections, so it's easy to pick up and read a few paragraphs. But these paragraphs will easily draw you in for a longer read. It can be read straight through, or enjoyed as a coffee table book to share with friends, and to stimulate discussion and speculation. It's a must-read, for me, during the December holidays.
Tradition and ritual without faith.......2004-11-15
I've always loved Christmas. But a few years ago I deconverted from faith; I found myself, as an atheist and humanist, longing for a connection to the holiday I loved. This book helped me forge a new perspective on, and a new connection with, Christmas as a worldly and human celebration.
Each chapter provides cross-cultural connections to the ideas, customs, and icons of Christmas. Even when Matthews seems to be reaching a bit, it makes for engaging reading, and provides the rest of us with a way to connect with America's (and much of the Western World's) most important holiday season. It's especially engaging to know the origins of certain figures and beliefs; rarely are the origins religious, but cultural and traditional. [My favorite chapter was on the Twelve Days of Christmas.] The presentation of faith-free rituals at the end of each chapter was especially welcome, and I have already incorporated some small, new traditions into my holiday activities.
I recommend it to readers of all faiths or non-faiths. Every open-minded reader can find something of interest. Only literal Fundamentalists will be offended!
getting into the spirit.......2004-09-02
a fascinating and stimulating account that seems to put things into the proper perspective. Makes the myths all the more enjoyable.
Average customer rating:
- Ms.Pilcher, a wonderful writer
- Heart warming and wonderful
- Warm & fuzzy holiday story
- Heart Warming
- A Feel-Good Book
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Winter Solstice
Rosamunde Pilcher
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Paperbacks
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September
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ASIN: 0312978383
Release Date: 2001-05-01 |
Amazon.com
Rosamunde Pilcher's novel, despite its chilly setting, will warm the hearts of her growing army of loyal fans. Winter Solstice has all the familiar trademarks of a Pilcher saga, spun in her inimitable, homey, beguiling style. The story is told, chapter by chapter, from the perspectives of an eclectic array of characters. Former actress Elfrida--not very good by her own admission--leaves London for a geriatric bolthole in the country where she meets retired schoolmaster and organist, Oscar. Meanwhile, Carrie (Elfrida's second cousin), returns to London from Austria where she had a brilliant career in the tourist industry, only to find her niece, 14-year-old Lucy, sadly neglected by her selfish mother and equally spoiled grandmother. Finally, handsome Sam is recalled from New York by his company chairman to revive an ailing Scottish textile mill.
As one character after another must learn to live with their losses, they find themselves collectively spirited northwards, from Sussex to Scotland, by way of Cornwall. And, as events unfurl, slowly, surely, but inevitably, those in need find solace in unexpected places. While her characterizations are generally carefully crafted and entirely rounded, Pilcher's greatest strengths lie in her natural, easy narratives of everyday life and her thoroughly researched and captivating descriptions of scenery and surroundings. --Carey Green
Book Description
The wait is over for the millions of readers who fell in love with Rosamunde Pilcher's compelling novels filled with riveting storylines and unforgettable characters. Now, New York Times bestselling author Rosamund Pilcher, has returned, giving her legion of fans another tale of love, loyalty, and rebirth....Elfrida Phipps, once on the London stage and retired at 62, never anticipates going off with a man. But after a devastating tragedy, church organist Oscar Blundell asks for her companionship.So with her brown-and-white dog in tow, Elfrida begins her journey, not knowing that joining her and Oscar at a rundown Victorian house in Scotland will be a young woman nursing a broken heart, a teenager escaping an unhappy home, and a stranger arriving during a snowstorm.... Now these five, very different people form an unexpected circle of friends that will forever change their lives....AUTHORBIO: ROSAMUNDE PILCHER is the author of such worldwide bestsellers as The Shell Seekers, September, and Coming Home. She lives with her husband, Graham, and their dog, Daisy, in Perthshire, Scotland.
Customer Reviews:
Ms.Pilcher, a wonderful writer.......2007-10-04
This was the first Rosamunde Pilcher book I had read a few years back. As soon as I was finished with it I started collecting and reading everything she had written. Her novels are moving and real. The Shellseekers and Coming Home were also memorable, I didn't want them to end. Her books make me want to live in England and Scotland and experience everything she's writen about. I love her, I'm hoping she is still writing as it would be a great loss if she has stopped.
Heart warming and wonderful.......2007-01-10
Rosamund Pilcher at her best, again. She has become one of my favorite authors. The Winter Solstice had characters I still think about and revere. I cared what happened to them, and I had to keep turning pages. When I finished it at one in the morning, I was suddenly sad that my journey was over. I cannot recommend this one enough!
Warm & fuzzy holiday story.......2006-12-27
I have read this book 3 times, in 2000, 2003, and 2006. It just captures the Christmas spirit, and all the characters become friends with the reader. Wonderful to read anytime but especially during the holidays.
Heart Warming.......2006-09-09
I love Pilcher's use of imagery, her beautiful details, and the soft way the story is told. A beautiful escape from the mundane, perfect for reading by the fire during a chilly evening with a cup of tea!
A Feel-Good Book.......2005-12-05
I'm a Pilcher fan and Shell Seekers is an all-time favorite. I was excited to find this book when it was first published, but found it tedious. Now, a few years later, I've read it a second time and feel better about the story.
The plot is just a wee bit contrived (okay- severely contrived), the characters supposedly loving and giving - though, to add tension, Elfreda and Oscar behave thoughtlessly toward a old, sick fellow, who then leaves Oscar his small cottage when he dies of cancer in hospital. Sam doesn't mind freezing the poor dog while he contemplates a sunrise right after a snowstorm, etc. (A bit silly, considering he climbs to the top of a hill after a ten-inch snowstorm.)
The entire town is made up of sweet, supportive people. Allow you mind to take a break from logic: Sam cannot drive back to his hotel, but he gets around everywehere else; the house is a mansion but only has three rooms downstairs and four up. Elfreda and Oscar dash off in the snowstorms any time they need an item or to go to a party, etc.
There are so many characters and POVs youe eyes will cross, and each character gives the writer the opportunity to do tedious backstory, and also to repeat scenarios we have just read through the other characters' eyes. I began to go comatose every time Lucy, the teenager, made a dear diary entry. Put me to sleep ever time.
And nothing really happens. Serious things do happen- but only to help Elfreda and Oscar, sadly, for the death of Oscar's wife and daughter, and of the poor old fellow, are convenient and not used to explore the characters, and give this book some depth.
On the plus side, I loved knowing there were no nasty surprises, and my heart ached to know such delightful, sweet people, and live in such a lovely place. The descriptions of the landscape, the snow, the cottages, even the rooms, are marvelous. You'll find yourself enjoying the relaxed pace, and rooting for the characters- though you roll your eyes at the contrived circumstances and the lack of depth with most of the characters. But they're an uncomplicated bunch and represent the best of humanity.
Would I recommend this book? No. Unless you love uncomplicated, feel-good books, with little plot and little action.
Customer Reviews:
Beautiful book for all ages.......2006-08-05
I read this book to my eighth grade physical science students before they started a project about the summer solstice. It lends itself well to a teacher read-aloud. The pictures are beautiful and the information is comprehensible. It is a great way to bring cultural diversity into a science lesson.
The summer solstice.......2006-07-06
Excellent book to teach children about the different ways the solstice is celebrated in various countries
Product Description
Unabridged
Customer Reviews:
Very Good.......2002-06-22
Here Ryan and his gang meet the albino Jak Laren for the first time. Jak wants their help in overthowing the local baron that is opessing the people(Aren't they always?) While this book is like any other deathlands book(highly addictive) it does introduce a new charecter that is with the dedicated Deathlands reader to the present day.
My Favorite Deathlands Book.......2000-03-27
This was my first and favorite Deathlands book. It takes away some unimportant main charecters and introduces important main charecters. It was the hardest to put down book I have ever read!
BOOM. You are all dead, but everything else is the same........1997-04-04
Using the gateways the adventuring protaganists once again landin the middle of the unknown. They have landed in the Bayou. Thisbook like many Deathlands novels includes an evil baron, a righteous few, and enough action to spin your head. Axler has done an incredible job explaining the story line even if you haven't read the previous books. Though after reading this one you might want to read them.
Customer Reviews:
Great for Modern Pagans--Read Critically!.......2004-12-15
Though the book is written from a Judeo-Christian perspective, it is an excellent book for educating children about the many ways the winter solstice is celebrated throughout the world. Some Pagans have criticized the book for not representing modern Paganism; however, I feel it is unreasonable of Pagans to presume that Judeo-Christians even know of our faith, let alone to expect them to write about it as if it were the truth. I take it for what it is, a very well-written children's book that is exploring the multicultural aspect of the winter solstice festival. When I read it to my son and it said something like "ancient people once believed in ghosts, witches, and trolls . . . " I paused to explain to him that there are real ghosts (spirits) and real witches (people who perform witchcraft) and that I'd never seen a troll, but I wouldn't say they don't exist either! I'm teaching my child to be a critical reader. I personally feel that some of those who reviewed the book negatively don't know how to read critically! I hope any of you with children will consider picking up this book for them! It has very beautiful illustrations and a lovely Native American story at the end about why the evergreens stay green through winter! Definitely worth the purchase price!
Intense for kids.......2004-12-03
I got this and "The Shortest Day" by Wendy Pfeffer to try to provide a non-denominational explanation of Christmas to my toddler. I think "The Winter Solstice" is a little too dark and scary for young kids. It emphasizes the fears ancient peoples felt at this time of year as the reason for the mid-winter holiday. Talks a lot about driving away evil spirits and even human sacrifice. I'm sure it's very historically accurate, but "The Shortest Day" glosses over some of the darkest information and provides very similar history but in a lighter way.
The Shortest Day and the Return of the Light.......2002-10-19
This lovely picture book is a great over-view of Winter Solstice history, tradition, science and celebration. The illustrations are satisfyingly detailed and brightly colored, many of them double page spreads. The book covers an ancient Scottish family's Winter Solstice experience, shows us an ancient viewpoint featuring Stonehenge, explores anicent Roman, Scandinavian, Celtic, Peruvian, and Native American celebrations. It shares some of the features of modern day Winter Solstice celebrations. It ties in the celebrations of Christmas and Hanukkah and traces where some of those holiday traditions originated. It includes a brief and easily understood scientific explanation for the Winter Solstice. The book is nicely rounded off with a solstice story from a Cherokee tale of creation. The illustrations feature yew and mistletoe, blazing bonfires, antlered ancients encouraging the return of the Sun, changing seasons, and children celebrating. It is a lively and entertaining book that will enrich anyone's understanding of this special night of the year and will be especially useful to Wiccan and other pagan parents.
Balanced account.......2002-01-19
This is a very appealing book that looks at the origins of winter solstice traditions. The book surveys the historical roots of common solstice practices and the use of symbols such as candles and wreaths in a style that is both accurate and kid-friendly.
Highly recommended for Wiccans and Pagans.......2002-01-07
Clear, concise, and beautifully written! It's possible to be a wiccan AND believe that the earth goes around the sun.
Amazon.com
Those who yearn for spiritual meaning but aren't strongly affiliated with a specific religion sometimes feel left out of winter holidays. Yule is like a hot toddy for these chilled and isolated souls. From mistletoe to gift exchanging, Yule explores and exalts the pagan and regional roots to many of our contemporary rituals and celebrations. For example, lights were historically used to decorate winter homes in order to "frighten negative entities and urge the sun to shine," according to author Dorothy Morrison. Many people believe that Santa's reindeer "represent the stags that drew the chariot of the Norse gift-giving goddess, Freya." Beyond all the fascinating trivia, this is also a book that offers fresh approaches to old traditions, such as having a cleaning ritual that ceremoniously sweeps out the old and makes room for the new season or conducting a reverent "tree blessing" ceremony. Morrison also suggests numerous homemade crafts and gift ideas (many are suitable for children), inviting seasonal recipes (such as Yuletide Ambrosia and Dragon's Layer Cake), and a December calendar that lists traditions and rituals for every day of the month. --Gail Hudson
Book Description
The holidays are a time for reflection, resolution, and renewal. Whatever our beliefs, they provide us with rituals to celebrate the balance of light and dark, and for welcoming the healing powers of warmth back into our world. Jam packed with holiday lore, recipes, crafts, rituals, and more, Yule guides you through the magic of the season!
Customer Reviews:
wonderful.......2007-09-15
I really like this book. It will be very useful this Yule. Great craft ideas, blessings and stories. Wonderful for the whole family.
a treasured gift of celebrations.......2007-05-23
As Winter approaches every year, so too does the magic of Yuletide days. Children are filled with anticipation and wonder. All over the world people are celebrating and embracing their beliefs. More often than not, these celebrations involve candlelight in some way, and family gatherings.
What else do the traditions of the world have in common? Where do these traditions come from? Dorothy Morrison explains it all so clearly and with great warmth and respect for diversity, in "Yule - A Celebration..." Here, you will find answers to questions heard in households every December: "Why does Santa use reindeer to pull his sleigh?" or "Where do candy canes come from?" Do you know the origins of the Yule Log? Do you know why the Chanukah Menorah and the Kwanza Kinara hold eight candles?
The Winter Solstice - Yule - has been celebrated for four thousand years! It is a time of renewal and rejoicing, and it is a time to celebrate light overcoming the darkness. There are many historical lessons to be learned here and Ms. Morrison has created a well researched, thorough guide to the significance of the "holidays". Included, is a most wonderful calendar for the month of December in which every day is a festival or celebration around the world, and how you can incorporate these traditions in your life.
Enjoyable are the chapters on trivia, omens and superstitions. Inspiring are the chapters on preparing for the season, gifting, feasting and festing, with recipes and craft ideas. Most inviting are the chapters on creating personal traditions. The world is truly a wonderful mixture of beliefs and customs and no matter where of who you are, this guide to Yule is a treasured gift of celebrations. [...]
Get the whole series.......2007-05-07
Each Llewellen book has a cool introduction about the history of the holiday. I recommend all the sabbat books in this series - - they have a lot more information than in any individual sabbat book.
Save your money!.......2006-09-14
This book offers more information about Santa Claus than it does the gods/godesses associated with the Winter Soltice. The craft projects are cheesey and the recipes terrible. Save your money and do a little research yourself and if you want recipes or craft projects pick up one of those special Christmas magazines for ideas you can adapt for a pagan holiday theme.
It Could Have Been So Much Better.......2006-08-08
First off, let me point out that I have high standards when it comes to pagan books. I expect for my faith to be presented to the general public as something that should be taken seriously, not poked fun at. I realize that these may be high expectations, but nonetheless... The first chapter was funny to me because although I could understand where Dorothy was coming from in her explanation of the history of how Yule came to be I could almost hear the right-wing Christians raging on their pews. It was the way she explained it that seemed a bit of a stretch. On the other hand, I liked the way she presented the symbols of the season and where they originated. There were some good prayers. Also helpful to me were the recipes for the Yule Log Rolls and how to make a real Yule Log. Other than that I decided against purchasing this book. I'm hoping to find a concise book on Yule that digs deeper into the history and gives me a clearer picture of how people practiced Yule. (A NOTE TO EDITORS: If you are expecting to sell more pagan themed books of this kind, you need to start including full-color photos. If I am going to pay money for a book like this I want to see photos that go along with the recipes-what would a typical Yule table from 2006 look like for example?- and photos that go along with the craft projects. You cannot expect people to try the craft projects without knowing what they will look like.) This book is helpful for beginner pagans or nonpagans who just want a look at some fun history facts.
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- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
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- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
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