For many, the sight of an evergreen tree decorated with shiny ornaments and colorful lights brings to mind children awaiting Santa Claus, carolers spreading cheer, and cozy nights by the fire. How this tradition started is a much different story. OChristmas Tree explores the natural history and various traditions —from the tree's origins to the first tree lights and decorations — that led to the celebrations people enjoy today.
This carefully researched and attractively illustrated historical view of a familiar Christmas tradition conveys a large amount of information within the oversized picture-book format. The historical background explains the evolution of the custom from evergreen branches in Egypt and Rome to early Christmas trees in Germany. The rise in popularity of the trees in the United States includes Christmas trees at the White House and the changing styles of trees. Growing methods, the most popular kinds of trees and the difficulties faced by tree farmers are also described. The final pages include Christmas-tree trivia and a short resource list. Friar's gouache paintings provide additional details, succeeding in both the appealing historical scenes and in the more scientifically oriented spreads about tree farming. Bids fair to be a real workhorse for library holiday collections. (Informational picture book. 5-9)
Overview
For many, the sight of an evergreen tree decorated with shiny ornaments and colorful lights brings to mind children awaiting Santa Claus, carolers spreading cheer, and cozy nights by the fire. How this tradition started is a much different story. OChristmas Tree explores the natural history and various traditions —from the tree's origins to the first tree lights and decorations — that led to the celebrations people enjoy today.