Christmas Long Ago

By Marian I. Doyle

Book Overview

Here is a uniquely welcome gift for all who treasure the idea of an old-fashioned Christmas. Take a Victorian-inspired journey through the holiday as it was celebrated a century and more ago, beginning in the cold snows of early December and ending with the departure of guests on Christmas night. The book tells of games, gifts, decorations, superstitions, beliefs, fashions, foods, and fun, all presented in illustrated bursts of history combined with the thoughts and poetry of the Victorians themselves. A visual treat, richly peppered with vintage trade cards, greeting cards, photographs, and artwork from period magazines for a scrapbook-like kaleidoscope of colors and impressions, this is Christmas history at its best and most playful. As Charles Dickens wrote, "it is good to be children sometimes, and never better than at Christmas." A value guide to the items shown makes this book a valuable resource as well, offering guidance for new and seasoned collectors alike.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0764323571
• ISBN13: 9780764323577
• Release Date: November 2006
• Publisher: Schiffer Publishing
• Length: 112 Pages
• Weight: 1.25 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 8.4" x 11.0"

Customer Reviews

Lovely fluff piece

With lovely, colorful images from postcards to advertising from the Victorian era, this makes a wonderful coffee table book. The images are placed more like a memory book which works well with the overall theme. There are quotes from magazines of the era sure to please, and a price guide in the back if you are interested. However, if you are looking for more than just a pretty picture book, you might try another selection. I love it, but take it for its decorative versus informational qualities.