Subject
Holidays -- Juvenile literature Books
Best books
Elizabeth Gordon
Really so stories
"Really So Stories" by Elizabeth Gordon is a collection of children's stories likely written in the early 20th century. The book features a boy named Billy who seeks knowledge about the origins of various customs, holidays, and historical facts. Each tale is designed to be both entertaining and educational, blending storytelling with factual information. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Billy, who prefers to hear real stories rather than fictional ones. He is curious about how the New Year is determined and how traditions began, leading to a magical encounter with the embodiment of the New Year. This conversation reveals the history of calendar systems and customs surrounding New Year celebrations across different cultures, setting the tone for the ensuing stories that Billy shares with his companion, Somebody. The stories promise to offer children insights into the meanings behind holidays and various significant events in a way that sparks curiosity and understanding.
Various
Our Holidays Their Meaning and Spirit; retold from St. Nicholas
"Our Holidays" by Various is a collection of historical stories retold from St. Nicholas magazine, produced in the early 20th century. The work encompasses a variety of narratives related to American holidays, exploring their meanings and the customs surrounding them. The book offers a rich tapestry of tales that span from Hallowe'en to the Fourth of July, highlighting events notable in American history, cultural traditions, and the spirit behind annual celebrations. The opening of "Our Holidays" presents an introduction that outlines the significance of holidays beyond mere enjoyment, suggesting that they connect us to our heritage and the sacrifices made by previous generations. Notable festivities like Thanksgiving are tied to historical events like the Pilgrims' first harvest and illustrate themes of gratitude and community. Each holiday referenced carries its own story, including tales of notable individuals like Abraham Lincoln and John Greenleaf Whittier, and the compilation promises a blend of entertainment and education for young readers, fostering a deeper appreciation for these cultural observances.
Charles Lamb
A Masque of Days From the Last Essays of Elia: Newly Dressed & Decorated
"A Masque of Days" by Charles Lamb is a whimsical and imaginative collection of prose and poetry, likely written in the early 19th century. The work centers around a fantastical dinner party hosted by the New Year, where all the Days of the year gather to celebrate and mingle. This light-hearted narrative reflects on the nature of time, the changing of years, and the character of each day, blending humor with thoughtful observations. The content unfolds as a lively banquet featuring personified days of the year, each showcasing its unique traits and characteristics. With notable attendees like Christmas Day, Ash Wednesday, and April Fool, the festivities are filled with playful interactions and humorous anecdotes. The Days engage in lighthearted banter, disputes, and festivities, all while addressing various themes related to the calendar and human experiences throughout the year. The narrative culminates in a spirited celebration that embraces both the joy and melancholy associated with the passage of time, ultimately illustrating Lamb's keen observations on life and the cyclical nature of days.
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