The Spirits of Christmas

With prose and beautiful illustrations guiding you, a world of enchantment awaits as you travel to meet many of the most beloved characters of Christmas time - the many names, faces, and global traditions of Santa Claus. Created with both children and adults in mind, The Spirits of Christmas: A Celebration of Yuletide Icons from Around the World is as fitting sitting on a nightstand for bedtime stories as it is on a coffee table as a conversation piece. And so it begins: "In the crisp embrace of winter, as the world adorns itself in a festive cloak, there's a quiet magic that stirs in the air. It's a season where legends from corners far and wide come alive, each contributing uniquely to the holiday spirit. From the rooftops of Amsterdam where Sinterklaas leaves thoughtful gifts, to the starlit skies of Italy where La Befana flies on her broomstick, each iconic figure brings a distinct flavor of joy and wonder. These timeless characters, woven into the fabric of various cultures, do more than just fill stockings or leave presents under trees. In Finland, Joulupukki, the Yule Goat, brings not only gifts but also the promise of light in the darkest time of the year. In the bustling streets of New York, Santa Claus, with his hearty laugh and twinkling eyes, embodies the spirit of giving and the joy of togetherness. These figures, whether they tread softly through the snow or glide across the night sky, are not just bearers of material gifts but of something deeper - a sense of enchantment, a spirit of good cheer, a touch of the miraculous, an infusion of hope into our everyday lives. They each remind us of the universal joys of the season: the warmth of family, the excitement of anticipation, the pleasure of giving. They are a testament to the enduring power of myth and magic, and how, year after year, they bring us together in a shared experience of wonder and joy. Through them, the holiday spirit is kept aglow, lighting up hearts and homes around the globe. Please enjoy this magical, worldwide sleigh ride."