This week, we get into the holiday spirit by unwrapping the backstory of a much-loved Christmas poem and delight in the creative rendition of a familiar carol.
Classics
‘Twas the Night: The Art and History of the Classic Christmas Poem’
By Pamela McColl
This year marks the 200th anniversary of the publication of “Twas the Night before Christmas,” and Pamela McColl is here to help us celebrate. Ms. McColl spent over a decade putting together this lavish collection of commentary, quotations, paintings, and illustrations of this renowned poem, and the result is this beautiful homage to the author Clement Moore and to writers like Washington Irving, to American history and art, and of course, to St. Nicholas. A holiday gift the entire family will enjoy.
Grafton & Scratch Publishers, 2022, 264 pages
Fiction
‘Hello Beautiful’
By Ann Napolitano
This is a heartfelt story centered on a quiet young man, William Waters, whose life is unalterably changed when he meets an ambitious and lively girl during his freshman year in college. Julia Padavano is a package deal. She comes with three inseparable sisters. However, his happiness is haunted by demons from a dark past. Will his brokenness break the spell of his new contentment? Can the family survive a catastrophic rift? This is a profoundly moving story of what is possible when love is a choice.
The Dial Press, 2023, 400 pages
Science Fiction
‘Song of Spheres’
By Walker Larson
Ex-Air Force pilot Will Leonhardt agrees to take a craft to the moon for some renegade scientists intent on proving the earth is the center of the universe. As Will trains for the mission, we meet others involved with the project, including co-pilot Declan McBride, billionaire Anthony Forrest, the wise Dr. Whitfield, and the beautiful botanist, Sage. When sinister enemies threaten the expedition, Will must fight for his life, for his friends, and for Sage. A rich blend of science and suspense by this contributor to The Epoch Times.
Swallow Hill Press, 2023, 311 pages
History
‘Naturalists at Sea: Scientific Travellers From Dampier to Darwin’
By Glyn Williams
William Dampier published “A New Voyage Round the World” in 1697. It encouraged the addition of natural philosophers or savants (as scientists were called before the 1830s) on voyages of exploration. This book explores the explorers. Given travel’s hardships, these often eccentric men were dedicated to science. This book will delight those interested in history or the sea. A marvelous look at the development of science, it also offers a fascinating introduction to the close of the Age of Exploration.
Yale University Press, 2013, 309 pages
Exploration
‘Madhouse at the End of the Earth’
By Julian Sancton
The exploration of the North and South Poles was fraught with dangers, isolation, and consistent failure. These near absolutes, however, were not deterrents to the many who braved the perils in search of glory. Mr. Sancton takes the reader on the icy voyage toward the South Pole, but as was so often the case, the voyage fell far short of its destination, and what resulted was a race for survival―both physically and mentally. A historical narrative that reads like a psychological thriller.
Crown, 2021, 368 pages
For Kids
‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’
By Laurel Long
The classic English carol comes to life through Laurel Long’s stunning oil paintings. Cumulatively progressing through the 12 days, as new gifts are added, the illustrations become more elaborate beckoning readers to search for the hidden gifts within each. Complete with a brief history and sheet music, this rendition is a holiday standout.
Puffin Books, 2014, 40 pages
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