In only 200 words, author Skarmeas tells the story of how Valentine's Day came into being. In simple words that every child can understand, here is the story of the kindly Valentine who cared for the children of Rome, who prayed for a miracle for a blind child, and who is remembered each February 14. Artist Pickett has painted the scenes in bright colors from the schoolroom scenes to those of ancient Rome. This book is unusual in that it briefly explains the history of a holiday to toddlers.
The historical importance, makers, materials, and rarity of Christmas trees, decorations, and ornaments of all kinds are discussed in detail, including glass ornaments, all types of lighting from candles to electricity, cotton and paper ornaments, and Dresdens. All the major manufacturers are identified and much personal information is given about the families that developed the Christmas ornament industry into big business internationally. Christmas Past includes beautiful color pictures of extremely rare, exquisite glass balls and figurals and early electric lamps.
