Christmas in Atlantic Canada: Stories True and False, Past and Present by David Goss
Outings and trimmings and trappings, greenery and ghosts and games of yesteryear. These are just a few of the nostalgic topics that the author delves into for this history of Christmas in the Maritimes. It seems like there are no stones left unturned, from how Christmas and Santa came to the Atlantic coast from Europe, to short stories and snippets about the season. This book is great for Christmas enthusiasts and history buffs alike, especially for those who love to see representation of the communities they’re from and love. Folks who are just curious about the Maritimes would likely find this engaging as well.
Santa Never Brings Me a Banjo by David Myles, Illustrated by Murray Bain
In this delightful picture book, David Myles sings us a song in verse over his pain at not receiving a banjo after asking Santa for one year after year. Anyone who’s ever gone through this knows what David must be feeling, and they’re hoping right along with him that in the end he’ll get that banjo. The illustrations are charming and they do a great job of showing David from his height and therefore point of view, showing what he dreams he’ll do upon receiving that perfect gift. There are pieces of sheet music at the back, for an added musical treat.
Catch author David Myles this Saturday, December 8, at 2pm at Halifax Central Library for his book launch, and be sure to stay tuned for more holiday gift recommendations over the next couple of weeks!
Blog post by Meaghan Steeves