This was a gift from Canadian Reader last year. It took me several months to read as I read other things at the same time because 'Twas the Night Before Christmas: the Art and History of the Classic Christmas Poem, written and compiled by Pamela McColl was a rich, detailed, and dense read. There's the history behind how it was written, influences for the names of the reindeer, various publishing dates, dozens of illustrators, and how the artwork has changed over the years. It was published to celebrate the poem's bicentennial in 2023.Two things I especially enjoyed: the parody of the poem about the day AFTER, which came out in 1858. There have been others, but it is considered the first. And, a version 'edited by Santa Claus' for children of the 21st century where Santa has given up smoking. The lines with him puffing on his pipe have been removed, everything else is the same. Worth a look if only for the pictures. ;-)

And, a fiction read, Murder at Midwinter Manor, one of the Miss Merrill and Aunt Violet Mystery books by Anita Davison. It's 1916 and Hannah and her Aunt Violet have come to Midwinter Manor for a break from war torn London. (Along with Bartleby the cat, of course). Lots of relatives have gathered, expecting a good time, but then they are snowed in, a body is found (in a locked room), and a precious gem is missing. The local police cannot reach them, communication is iffy, so they are on their own for this. All the classic elements are here for a well done, engaging wintertime read. :-)

Happy holidays!

Reading Hermit With Dog