Penne L. Restad

Restad, a lecturer in American History at the University of Texas at the time of publication, writes a well-researched and documented history of America’s favorite holiday. Beginning in chapter one with a brief history of the observance of Christ’s nativity in the early church, Restad quickly moves, in the second chapter, to 17th century colonial America and the Puritan-inspired resistance to the holiday. She thoroughly traces the development of Christmas from its disparate and sometimes bizarre customs to its gradual nationwide acceptance and more uniform “American” customs – including Christmas trees and greenery, gift giving, Christmas cards, Santa Claus, movies, music, literature and more. There are hundreds of endnotes for those who want to go deeper, a thorough index, and a handful of black and white illustrations. Highly recommended for anyone interested in Christmas or Americana.… (mehr)