Confederate Night Before Christmas

By Mark Vogl

While there have been many adaptations of Clement Moore's memorable poem, author Mark Vogl has brought a new interpretation to the field. Originally published as a short Christmas greeting to readers of his Rebel Mountain Reader, his poem stands alone as a testament to the best of human nature during a trying time for all in the Civil War. While Congress did not declare Christmas a holiday until 1870, and the traditions of Santa Claus and presents were still foreign to many families in America, those who had little still felt the need to share with widows and orphans of their fallen brothers on the most holy of Christian celebrations.

In this retelling reminiscent of events documented during the war, illustrator Stephanie Ford relies on historic evidence and her own considerable knowledge of Civil War camp life to visually embellish Vogl's poem. Filled with lifelike images of generals like Beauregard and Jackson, kepis (military caps), gray coats, and horses, the tale follows the soldiers' collection of food for the widows and orphans of nearby Richmond at the behest of their beloved General Lee. From the snow-filled camp to the bundle of packages, prancing horses, and loaded wagons, this collaboration is sure to become a Southern Christmas classic.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1455620750
• ISBN13: 9781455620753
• Release Date: September 2015
• Publisher: Pelican Publishing Company
• Length: 32 Pages
• Weight: 0.85 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 8.4" x 11.0"
• Age Range: 8 to 12 years
• Grade Range: Grades 3 to 7