"Lesley Bannatyne's fascinating book . . . will be widely appealing to anyone who ever wondered where witches, trick-or-treating, and jack-o-lanterns really came from. It is by far the best book on the history of Halloween available today."--Alison Guss, senior producer,"The Haunted History of Halloween," The History Channel"An excellent resource for research into the history of holidays...in the United States...Highly Recommended."--The Book Report"Deserves attention as a recommended library acquisition with years of 'life' to its information."--The Midwest Book Review"Overflows with rich and provocative details of ritual, feasts, superstition, and devilment." --North Carolina Historical ReviewHalloween has evolved from the Celtic celebrations of 2,000 years ago to become today the fastest-growing holiday in the country. This, the only book to completely cover All Hallow's Eve, from its beginnings to the present, examines the ancient origins as well as its traditions and celebrations, from costuming to bobbing for apples. Jack-o-lanterns, black cats, and witches are explained. Ghosts, ghouls, and goblins lurk behind every page.The book traces the contributions of America's immigrants to the holiday, documenting the beliefs each ethnic group has added to the mix. Related recipes, poems, songs, and photos perfectly complement the meticulously documented text. The result is the most educational and entertaining examination of Halloween, its myths, and its truths.

Take an illustrated tour of America’s stylish and historic mid-century restaurants in this volume of color photographs and vintage ephemera. Over the years, the softly lit wood-paneled interiors, starched tablecloths, curved booths, tuxedoed captains, and tableside service that once defined continental-style fine dining have given way to more contemporary trends. Yet in American cities large and small, a few historic restaurants have maintained their classic character and old-school ambiance. With vivid new color photography and fascinating vintage ephemera, Classic Dining celebrates the great mid-century restaurants that continue to thrive in New York, the greater Miami area, New Orleans, Las Vegas, the Chicago area, Los Angeles, and across the United States. This volume also includes a directory of mid-century restaurants across America.

What makes us all Americans--whatever our differences--is adherence to a creed, a creed based upon cornerstone truths the founders believed "self-evident." From the earliest days, the survival of the new republic hinged not merely upon the expression of these grand principles of liberty and equality but upon their spiritual underpinnings. Freedom and faith were intertwined. America, as a foreign observer once put it, is a nation with the soul of a church. In this stirring and timely book, Forrest Church charts the progress of this creed from the America's beginnings to the present day by evoking those whose words-whether in declarations, songs, inaugural addresses, speeches, or prayers-have expressed its letter and captured its spirit. What emerges is our shared destiny. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s dream that this country might someday "rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed," echoes Thomas Jefferson's belief that "equal and exact justice to all" is the "creed of our political faith." Our connection with the past represents our commitment to the future and vice versa. A "spiritual and patriotic primer," The American Creed distills the essence of American history while also matching its sweep. Church lets the story of the Declaration of Independence unfold before our eyes, giving us both the big picture and the details that place it into brilliant focus. Those steeped in our nation's heritage will find fresh insight and renewed purpose. Those still discovering its riches could have no finer introduction. In its scope and embrace, this is a book for us all.

Every year we celebrate a cycle of seasonal holidays. The ancient Greeks called this cycle “The Dance of the Horae,” after the mythical divinities who represented the seasons. What myths sit at the foundation of our own holiday celebrations? This interdisciplinary book explores the myths and symbols that underlie our major seasonal holidays and give them their meaning. Arthur George also shows how America’s own mythmaking has shaped some holidays. This mythological approach reveals how and why holidays arose in the first place, how and why they have changed over the centuries, why they have remained important, and finally how we can celebrate them today in a more meaningful manner that can enrich our lives and better our society. George devotes particular attention to the depth psychological aspects of holidays and their corresponding myths, as well as to the insights of modern biblical scholarship for key holidays such as Easter and Christmas.

In this book, veteran music producer Richard James Burgess gives readers the tools they need to understand the complex field of music production. He defines the many roles that fall to the music producer by focusing first on the underlying theory of music production, before offering a second section of practical aspects of the job.

In the heart of 19th-century American literature, 'The Hawthorne: A Christmas and New Years Present' stands as a captivating anthology, showcasing a remarkable diversity in themes, narrative styles, and literary context. Serving as a treasure trove of short stories and essays, this collection highlights the significant contribution of female authors to the literary world, offering insights into domestic life, social norms, and the nuanced challenges of their time. The anthology is notable for its inclusion of works that range from heartfelt Christmas stories to reflective New Years musings, each piece echoing the periods rich literary tradition while also paving the way for future explorations of genre and theme. The authors Eliza Leslie, Mrs. Hughs, Mrs. Childs, and Mrs. Sigourney were prominent figures who played pivotal roles in shaping 19th-century American literature, particularly in the domain of womens writing. Coming from diverse backgrounds, these authors collectively bring a wealth of experiences and perspectives, enriching the anthologys exploration of themes such as family, tradition, and societal expectations. Their contributions reflect the broader historical and cultural movements of their time, offering readers a window into the complexities and beauties of early American life. 'The Hawthorne: A Christmas and New Years Present' is an essential read for those who cherish the depth and diversity of literary expression. It provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the work of pioneering female authors whose voices contribute to our understanding of 19th-century American society. This anthology not only celebrates the festive season but also encourages readers to reflect on the societal norms of the past, inviting a dialogue between the historical context of the authors works and the contemporary readers perspective. It is a must-read for scholars and enthusiasts of American literature, offering a rich tapestry of stories that resonate with timeless themes and human experiences.

Embark on a magical journey through the world's most captivating Christmas destinations with this comprehensive travel guide. From the glittering lights of New York City to the charming markets of Europe, and from tropical paradises to winter wonderlands, this ebook offers insider tips, local traditions, and unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking a family adventure, a romantic getaway, or a solo exploration of holiday magic, discover the perfect destination to create lasting Christmas memories. Christmas travel, holiday destinations, festive markets, winter getaways, family Christmas vacations, romantic Christmas escapes, global Christmas traditions, Christmas in Europe, tropical Christmas destinations, Christmas city breaks