New Year's Box. History, Traditions, Magical Rituals

«New Year's Box» tells how familiar winter rituals were born: from the bonfires of the winter solstice and Roman Saturnalia to the decorated Christmas tree and the chimes of the clock. The book collects gift-givers from around the world — Santa Claus, Sinterklaas, Joulupukki, the fairy Befana, and other characters that are rarely remembered outside their home countries. Separate chapters are dedicated to the symbolism of the Christmas star and wreath, winter herbs, divination with runes and by flame, ritual food on the festive table, and traditions of making wishes at the stroke of midnight. The book is suitable for family reading before the New Year.