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Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions
Behind every Christmas tradition is a story — usually, a forgotten one. Each year, as we decorate a tree, build a gingerbread house, and get ready for a visit from St. Nicholas, we’re continuing generations-old narratives, while being largely unaware of their starting chapters. But knowing how these traditions began adds a new level of depth to our Christmas spirit, as well as an arsenal of anecdotes to share at Christmas parties. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday’s Traditions reveals the surprising, quirky, mysterious, and sometimes horrifying stories behind the most wonderful time of the year. With 26 short chapters, it’s a festive, digestible Advent calendar of a book. Covering traditions ancient and modern, Christmas Past is filled with stories of happy accidents, cultural histories, criminal capers (including tomb raiders and con artists), and hidden connections between Christmas and broader social, economic, and technological influences. How did the invention of plate glass forever change the Christmas season? What common Christmas item helped introduce fine art to the masses? Why do Americans typically spike their eggnog with rum, rather than the traditional brandy? And speaking of booze, does using the phrase “Merry Christmas” mark you as a drunken reveler? Christmas Past answers all of those questions, and many more.
208 pages, Hardcover
Published November 1, 2022
16 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
October 24, 2022
Christmas, such a huge part of our lives and traditions, but where did it all come from, and how long have those traditions been around. In this delightful book about Christmas traditions, author Brian Earl has done the research and gives us the inside scoop on wassail, eggnog, caroling, Christmas movies, Christmas commercials, as well as why we say Merry Christmas instead of Happy Christmas (the Brits say that!). About 26 chapters about everything Christmas from food, to movies, to cards, wrapping paper, and so much more.
If you want to buy one book about Christmas than this is the one for you. Loved it in the Kindle version, and even ordered it for my permanent home library!!!
To read my full review go to www.viewsonbooks.com
If you want to buy one book about Christmas than this is the one for you. Loved it in the Kindle version, and even ordered it for my permanent home library!!!
To read my full review go to www.viewsonbooks.com
January 10, 2024
This book helped me, unintentionally, to win second place in a bar trivia night that was centered around Christmas questions. I had been listening to it on my commute to and from work prior to the trivia night and it came in handy for quite a few quesitons.
This was a fun listen. The facts were interesting and the narrator was the author, who is a podcast host, so he has a good idea of how to read in a conversational way that is easy to hear and understand without having to rewind constantly.
This is going to be my go-to listen for the Christmas season from now on.
4, I highly recommend this one, stars.
My thanks to libro.fm and Recorded Books, Inc for an ALC of this book to listen to and review.
This was a fun listen. The facts were interesting and the narrator was the author, who is a podcast host, so he has a good idea of how to read in a conversational way that is easy to hear and understand without having to rewind constantly.
This is going to be my go-to listen for the Christmas season from now on.
4, I highly recommend this one, stars.
My thanks to libro.fm and Recorded Books, Inc for an ALC of this book to listen to and review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2022
Have you ever wondered why we celebrate Christmas the way we do? If so, this book is for you. It takes a look at four categories: food, entertainment, sights and sounds, and society. Each category gets several chapters that focus on specific things like mince pies or candy canes, Rudolph, lights, and Christmas cards. We get a look at the origins, the rise, and sometimes the fall, of these old traditions.
This book is purely looking at the secular, pop culture celebration of Christmas, although the religious aspect does pop up occasionally, most noticeably in the chapter on “Silent Night.” A couple of chapters seem a bit vague, and the writing can be dry at times, but those are minor complaints. On the whole, this was a fascinating look at where our traditions came from, both those we still use today and those that have faded over time. I am not familiar with the author’s pod cast, but my understanding is much of this material first appeared there. As a Christmas lover, I enjoyed learning more about the holiday. If that’s you, you’ll enjoy this book as well.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
This book is purely looking at the secular, pop culture celebration of Christmas, although the religious aspect does pop up occasionally, most noticeably in the chapter on “Silent Night.” A couple of chapters seem a bit vague, and the writing can be dry at times, but those are minor complaints. On the whole, this was a fascinating look at where our traditions came from, both those we still use today and those that have faded over time. I am not familiar with the author’s pod cast, but my understanding is much of this material first appeared there. As a Christmas lover, I enjoyed learning more about the holiday. If that’s you, you’ll enjoy this book as well.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
October 31, 2022
Christmas Past is a podcast and they put the most interesting stories into this book. From the modern version of Santa to fruitcakes being banned the stories are varied and interesting. Brian Earl is the host of the podcast and what a great idea for a podcast I enjoyed this book very much and thought The narrator who I believe was Brian Earl himself did a great job. There were so many things about Christmas I didn’t know and now I do I listen to it all in one go and highly recommend it. If you love Christmas you really should listen to this podcast so much to know from Crime‘s to sins it’s all covered in Christmas Past by Brian Earle. I received this book from NetGalleyShelf and the author but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
November 27, 2025
A number of years ago I stumbled across Brian Earl's podcast CHRISTMAS PAST during my seemingly never-ending search for additional Christmas content. Brian's podcast explores the long-standing traditions which make up the holiday seasons while also trying to uncover their often elusive origins. The episodes are pretty short, usually under fifteen minutes each, but pack in a wealth of information. Somewhere along the way, Brian had the idea to compile some of his research into a book. Thus, CHRISTMAS PAST: THE FASCINATING STORIES BEHIND OUR FAVORITE HOLIDAY'S TRADITIONS was born.
Like the podcast, Brian doesn't overstay his welcome. Contained within are twenty-five short chapters exploring the backstories of everything from wassail to classic Christmas movies to poinsettias and so much more. Brian does a great job in laying out each topic and through interviews with specialists, provides a broad look at each topic. Given that he has six years of work under his belt with the podcast, the book only scratches the surface of what Brian has uncovered over the years. That's not a knock on the book's depth; there is much here to learn.
For my experience, I opted for the audiobook as it seemed like the best way to experience Brian's work. It's a brief listen clocking in under five hours and one you can enjoy in bite sized sessions while doing your holiday shopping, baking or gift wrapping.
I've struggled over the years to find something like this book, one that explored the history behind my favorite time of year. Brian Earl has definitely knocked it out of the park with his book. I can only hope that given the breadth of Brian's knowledge, he opts to put out a second volume at some point in the future.
Like the podcast, Brian doesn't overstay his welcome. Contained within are twenty-five short chapters exploring the backstories of everything from wassail to classic Christmas movies to poinsettias and so much more. Brian does a great job in laying out each topic and through interviews with specialists, provides a broad look at each topic. Given that he has six years of work under his belt with the podcast, the book only scratches the surface of what Brian has uncovered over the years. That's not a knock on the book's depth; there is much here to learn.
For my experience, I opted for the audiobook as it seemed like the best way to experience Brian's work. It's a brief listen clocking in under five hours and one you can enjoy in bite sized sessions while doing your holiday shopping, baking or gift wrapping.
I've struggled over the years to find something like this book, one that explored the history behind my favorite time of year. Brian Earl has definitely knocked it out of the park with his book. I can only hope that given the breadth of Brian's knowledge, he opts to put out a second volume at some point in the future.
December 9, 2022
This is a fun compendium of various Christmas traditions with short form explanations of how many of our favorite Christmas foods, songs, and activities came to be.
The book is based off the podcast of the same name, so you’ll recognize some of the content if you listen to Earl’s podcast. He did a lovely job of choosing a variety of topics to be included in the book, and while I sometimes found myself wanting more information on a given subject, the shorter vignettes make it easier to retain more when presented with so many different Christmas-themed topics at once.
The food and decor subjects seem to work best in this format, as well as Christmas traditions like wassailing and Santa Claus. I probably could have done without going over Christmas movies and tv specials, but in all it’s a great collection of Christmas fun and facts, and is worth a read whether you are a podcast listener or not.
Audiobook readers: It probably goes without saying that since the book comes from a podcast, it works very well in audiobook form.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
The book is based off the podcast of the same name, so you’ll recognize some of the content if you listen to Earl’s podcast. He did a lovely job of choosing a variety of topics to be included in the book, and while I sometimes found myself wanting more information on a given subject, the shorter vignettes make it easier to retain more when presented with so many different Christmas-themed topics at once.
The food and decor subjects seem to work best in this format, as well as Christmas traditions like wassailing and Santa Claus. I probably could have done without going over Christmas movies and tv specials, but in all it’s a great collection of Christmas fun and facts, and is worth a read whether you are a podcast listener or not.
Audiobook readers: It probably goes without saying that since the book comes from a podcast, it works very well in audiobook form.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
October 12, 2022
I've been continually floored at the poor non-fiction content being published. i'm finding this via access to NetGalley and books available before printing for an honest review. Unlike so many others that are looking to get noticed for a happy review, I'm going to write what I find. Most is disturbing. Two books I read a year ago were atrocious (I've yet to turn those reviews in. I will soon.). A couple have been outstanding. 'Born to be Hanged' is a standout of all books I've been reading the past couple years.
I thought a soon-to-be-published Christmas book couldn't be awful. In this case I can file a good review! Yet, here I found still another rottenly researched and reviewed book. Moreover, still another that let the writer's politics over ride historical facts. I believe, I will abandon NetGalley involving upcoming non-fiction and stick with a select lot of fiction.
I can't understnad how one would want to write a book and go to the trouble to miss his target. To the point of actually writing why his book approach is self defeating. He writes that Americans (and this is who he exclusively is writing to) are losing their grip on Christmas based upon attendance drop in churches. Yet, throughout the book is never a connection of the "Christmas Past" of Christ and all the traditions that spun from the Christian-based holiday of Christmas. Thus, the author, himself, works to disconnect readers from the subject of the book he wrote...or assembled via loose connections of Wikipedia pages and other recent authors and books, often referenced/pitched through the book. Older authors of this well traveled territory are not used.
The lack of mention or reference of older books, like Frank Baum and the couple dozen books I have of the traditions and history of Christmas is astounding. How does one write so much of 'Miracle on 34th Street' and not reference Valentine Davies?
References used by the author are something expected from an elementary school student writing a report. Really jarring to me was the use of references involving the WikiPedia lot of websites. Otherwise, are mostly recently published books referenced as much to sell the book as the information provided.
I spoke to an old friend, who is an atheist, about this book. Despite his great dislike of churches and Christianity, he can not fathom an author writing of 'Christmas Past' and ignoring the very foundation of Christmas. This author does that to such lengths to deride various church connections. No mention of Christmas vespers or, even, Christmas church services. One thing to not write of the nativity or north star or angels stories and all the vast traditions that spin from those. To ignore the traditions of various leaders of churches and the church as a traditional basis for Christmas visits is surreal.
I also found fascinating how often variations of 'evolution' are written in (about 25 times), demonstrating the authors's lack of understanding theories of evolution as much as his cherry-picked understanding of Christmas.
- What's with all the focus on the 'Elf on the Shelf' craze and nothing of the 'Christmas Past' tradition of the Yule log?
- What's the weird co-relation of 'War on Christmas' and 'Baby, it's Cold Outside' which come from very different viewpoints?
- There's an odd segway into the author's view that recent 'Fruity Pebbles' cereal commercials are important Christmas commercials to note. No mention of the Budweiser Clydesdale iconic commercials. That's despite the large amount of space given to alcohol connecting to the author's view of 'Christmas Past' traditions.
This book should be labelled 'Secular Christmas Past' and be honest of the take.
There are far, far , far better books written over the decades of the subject matter. The few good take-aways does not make reading this worth much.
I made notes all through the book and will add more later....I hope! :)
Bottom line: I don't recommend this book. 2 out of ten points.
I thought a soon-to-be-published Christmas book couldn't be awful. In this case I can file a good review! Yet, here I found still another rottenly researched and reviewed book. Moreover, still another that let the writer's politics over ride historical facts. I believe, I will abandon NetGalley involving upcoming non-fiction and stick with a select lot of fiction.
I can't understnad how one would want to write a book and go to the trouble to miss his target. To the point of actually writing why his book approach is self defeating. He writes that Americans (and this is who he exclusively is writing to) are losing their grip on Christmas based upon attendance drop in churches. Yet, throughout the book is never a connection of the "Christmas Past" of Christ and all the traditions that spun from the Christian-based holiday of Christmas. Thus, the author, himself, works to disconnect readers from the subject of the book he wrote...or assembled via loose connections of Wikipedia pages and other recent authors and books, often referenced/pitched through the book. Older authors of this well traveled territory are not used.
The lack of mention or reference of older books, like Frank Baum and the couple dozen books I have of the traditions and history of Christmas is astounding. How does one write so much of 'Miracle on 34th Street' and not reference Valentine Davies?
References used by the author are something expected from an elementary school student writing a report. Really jarring to me was the use of references involving the WikiPedia lot of websites. Otherwise, are mostly recently published books referenced as much to sell the book as the information provided.
I spoke to an old friend, who is an atheist, about this book. Despite his great dislike of churches and Christianity, he can not fathom an author writing of 'Christmas Past' and ignoring the very foundation of Christmas. This author does that to such lengths to deride various church connections. No mention of Christmas vespers or, even, Christmas church services. One thing to not write of the nativity or north star or angels stories and all the vast traditions that spin from those. To ignore the traditions of various leaders of churches and the church as a traditional basis for Christmas visits is surreal.
I also found fascinating how often variations of 'evolution' are written in (about 25 times), demonstrating the authors's lack of understanding theories of evolution as much as his cherry-picked understanding of Christmas.
- What's with all the focus on the 'Elf on the Shelf' craze and nothing of the 'Christmas Past' tradition of the Yule log?
- What's the weird co-relation of 'War on Christmas' and 'Baby, it's Cold Outside' which come from very different viewpoints?
- There's an odd segway into the author's view that recent 'Fruity Pebbles' cereal commercials are important Christmas commercials to note. No mention of the Budweiser Clydesdale iconic commercials. That's despite the large amount of space given to alcohol connecting to the author's view of 'Christmas Past' traditions.
This book should be labelled 'Secular Christmas Past' and be honest of the take.
There are far, far , far better books written over the decades of the subject matter. The few good take-aways does not make reading this worth much.
I made notes all through the book and will add more later....I hope! :)
Bottom line: I don't recommend this book. 2 out of ten points.
October 28, 2022
As someone who is fascinated by traditions and where they came from, I enjoyed this book. There were some fun facts and a lot of history that I definitely didn’t know.
🌀Synopsis
Ever wondered why fruit cakes are associated with the holidays?
Did you know Rudolph was written after a foggy night in Michigan?
If you’re like me and you hate eggnog but also wonder who was weird enough to think of such a thing, you may enjoy this book. It traipses through history to tell all about the Christmas favorites we know and love (well, mostly love).
🌀Synopsis
Ever wondered why fruit cakes are associated with the holidays?
Did you know Rudolph was written after a foggy night in Michigan?
If you’re like me and you hate eggnog but also wonder who was weird enough to think of such a thing, you may enjoy this book. It traipses through history to tell all about the Christmas favorites we know and love (well, mostly love).
September 8, 2022
I received a free copy of, Christmas Past, by Brian Earl, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed this book. Learning about the history of fruitcake, eggnog, minced pie, and much much more. I learned a lot a bout Christmas traditions from this book.
December 24, 2024
This is a cute and quirky book discussing the history of our favorite Christmas traditions! It was interesting to learn why gingerbread is called gingerbread even though it’s definitely not bread - or that fruitcake used to be edible??? And ENJOYED???
A perfect quick holiday read.
A perfect quick holiday read.
December 19, 2022
I have often wondered where some of our Christmas traditions have come from. Learning the history of these traditions was so neat. The author described the book as an advent calendar of information. I felt like that was the perfect description. I recommend this for a nonfiction Christmas read. Thank you to NetGalley and RB Media for the audio arc in exchange for my honest review.
November 9, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book! It's an easy read, broken down into many short chapters, so you can pick it up and read for a short time, or indulge yourself into reading several at once. I learned a great deal about how and why we have developed the Christmas traditions we have today. AND....bonus.....I am now freshly armed with new information for the trivia game we put on at our annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Party!
November 9, 2022
If you're a fan of the Christmas Past podcast, you will love having this book as a companion! The history is well researched and SO interesting! There's truly no Christmas fact left behind here. Brian's writing is relatable and nostalgic as he takes you back to his 80's Christmases. I would have loved to see some listeners' stories and/or research that he occasionally includes on the podcast.
December 19, 2024
Read this to Sam and Ethan as the Bros Book Club selection for Christmas 2024!
October 24, 2022
“Behind every Christmas tradition is a story — usually, a forgotten one. Each year, as we decorate a tree, build a gingerbread house, and get ready for a visit from St. Nicholas, we’re continuing generations-old narratives, while being largely unaware of their starting chapters. But knowing how these traditions began adds a new level of depth to our Christmas spirit, as well as an arsenal of anecdotes to share at Christmas parties. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday’s Traditions reveals the surprising, quirky, mysterious, and sometimes horrifying stories behind the most wonderful time of the year.”
Normally, I wait until November before breaking out the Holiday Cheer, but I’ll make an exception for this book.
Brian Earl started out as a podcaster. In 2016, he started a ‘cast of the same name, to take long looks at our most beloved holiday traditions. In 2022, he turned it into a 200 page book, highlighting his favourites, as equal parts “nerdy deep-dive, and warm-hearted celebration.”
The audiobook is particularly robust as, not only does Earl, himself, narrate, but he uses actual clips from his podcast (headlines from yesteryear, interviews with experts, poetry, etc.) to bolster the prose.
Really, my only negative note is that the author tends to gloss over the negative. He obviously comes from a childhood of privilege, so #notallchildren, but he also glosses over some pretty un-jolly moments in history when he talks about the “booming Caribbean rum trade.”
Now, this is a secular look, so if you’re looking for The Reason for the Season (no, not Bailey’s Irish Whiskey) you won’t find Him. If, however you’re looking for insider info on everything from St. Nik, mistletoe, and fruitcake (the only reason you don’t like fruitcake is because you haven’t tried MY fruitcake. I will fight you on this), this is your book.
8/10
Thanks to NetGalley, Rowman & Littlefield, Lyons Press, and RB Media for this festive ARC.
Normally, I wait until November before breaking out the Holiday Cheer, but I’ll make an exception for this book.
Brian Earl started out as a podcaster. In 2016, he started a ‘cast of the same name, to take long looks at our most beloved holiday traditions. In 2022, he turned it into a 200 page book, highlighting his favourites, as equal parts “nerdy deep-dive, and warm-hearted celebration.”
The audiobook is particularly robust as, not only does Earl, himself, narrate, but he uses actual clips from his podcast (headlines from yesteryear, interviews with experts, poetry, etc.) to bolster the prose.
Really, my only negative note is that the author tends to gloss over the negative. He obviously comes from a childhood of privilege, so #notallchildren, but he also glosses over some pretty un-jolly moments in history when he talks about the “booming Caribbean rum trade.”
Now, this is a secular look, so if you’re looking for The Reason for the Season (no, not Bailey’s Irish Whiskey) you won’t find Him. If, however you’re looking for insider info on everything from St. Nik, mistletoe, and fruitcake (the only reason you don’t like fruitcake is because you haven’t tried MY fruitcake. I will fight you on this), this is your book.
8/10
Thanks to NetGalley, Rowman & Littlefield, Lyons Press, and RB Media for this festive ARC.
November 2, 2022
Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday’s Traditions
Brian Earl
If you enjoy the Christmas season as much as I do you must read/listen to this book! Author Brian Earl has gathered the history and stories about all the Christmas traditions we have come to enjoy. Learning the history of these traditions adds a bit more meaning to our Christmas spirit. Some of the stories are unusual, unexpected, puzzling and some are even disturbing.
Have you ever wondered about the origin of gingerbread, candy canes, or fruit cake? The Brothers Grimm published the story of Hansel Gretel around 1812; the original story speaks of a house with a roof made of cakes and windows made of sugar, in later editions it became gingerbread. Queen Elizabeth, I had gingerbread figures made in the likeness of guests. Most candy canes are made in at Spangler Candy; they make 2.7 million candy canes a day.
The origin of the Christmas tree is found in Germany around the 16th century; Christians decorated trees. The evergreen reminded people of warmer months ahead. Candles were used on trees but finding a way to keep them in an upright position was difficult. A bucket of sand and water was kept close at hand in case of fire. Among other things discussed in Christmas Past are wrapping paper, Santa Claus, Silent Night, snow globes, Christmas movies, Rudolph, animated Christmas specials, Christmas caroling and much more.
This book is easy to read and very interesting. The reader should be aware that it is a secular book; it does not discuss the Christ child. I would have enjoyed more of an emphasis on the Nativity, Christ, and Christianity however this is still a great read.
Brian Earl
If you enjoy the Christmas season as much as I do you must read/listen to this book! Author Brian Earl has gathered the history and stories about all the Christmas traditions we have come to enjoy. Learning the history of these traditions adds a bit more meaning to our Christmas spirit. Some of the stories are unusual, unexpected, puzzling and some are even disturbing.
Have you ever wondered about the origin of gingerbread, candy canes, or fruit cake? The Brothers Grimm published the story of Hansel Gretel around 1812; the original story speaks of a house with a roof made of cakes and windows made of sugar, in later editions it became gingerbread. Queen Elizabeth, I had gingerbread figures made in the likeness of guests. Most candy canes are made in at Spangler Candy; they make 2.7 million candy canes a day.
The origin of the Christmas tree is found in Germany around the 16th century; Christians decorated trees. The evergreen reminded people of warmer months ahead. Candles were used on trees but finding a way to keep them in an upright position was difficult. A bucket of sand and water was kept close at hand in case of fire. Among other things discussed in Christmas Past are wrapping paper, Santa Claus, Silent Night, snow globes, Christmas movies, Rudolph, animated Christmas specials, Christmas caroling and much more.
This book is easy to read and very interesting. The reader should be aware that it is a secular book; it does not discuss the Christ child. I would have enjoyed more of an emphasis on the Nativity, Christ, and Christianity however this is still a great read.
December 27, 2022
Title: Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday Traditions
Author: Brian Earl
Narrated by: Brian Earl
Publisher: Recorded Books
Length: Approximately 4 hours and 21 minutes
Source: Review Copy from NetGalley. Thank-you!
Do you like learning about the history of holiday traditions? I love it! I’ve been reading books about holiday traditions since I was in elementary school.
I was very excited to discover this audiobook this year, Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday Traditions. I was even more excited to learn as I listened that Brian Earl has a podcast called Christmas Past and I have also been enjoying listening to it this Christmas season. Christmas Past is a short fun book that has four main sections: food, entertainment, sights and sounds, and society. Each section has several chapters with a variety of subjects. I loved learning about fruit cake, Christmas cards, wrapping paper, Christmas songs, Christmas movies, and why do we say Merry Christmas rather than Happy Christmas? There were many other interesting topics as well.
Brian Earl the author narrated this and also does his podcast. He was a great narrator and very interesting to listen to. After I finished up this book, I immediately started listening to his podcast.
I highly recommend this book and podcast to anyone who is interested in learning more about Christmas traditions.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2022...
Author: Brian Earl
Narrated by: Brian Earl
Publisher: Recorded Books
Length: Approximately 4 hours and 21 minutes
Source: Review Copy from NetGalley. Thank-you!
Do you like learning about the history of holiday traditions? I love it! I’ve been reading books about holiday traditions since I was in elementary school.
I was very excited to discover this audiobook this year, Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday Traditions. I was even more excited to learn as I listened that Brian Earl has a podcast called Christmas Past and I have also been enjoying listening to it this Christmas season. Christmas Past is a short fun book that has four main sections: food, entertainment, sights and sounds, and society. Each section has several chapters with a variety of subjects. I loved learning about fruit cake, Christmas cards, wrapping paper, Christmas songs, Christmas movies, and why do we say Merry Christmas rather than Happy Christmas? There were many other interesting topics as well.
Brian Earl the author narrated this and also does his podcast. He was a great narrator and very interesting to listen to. After I finished up this book, I immediately started listening to his podcast.
I highly recommend this book and podcast to anyone who is interested in learning more about Christmas traditions.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2022...
November 29, 2022
This was a great book that I learnt so much from reading. It was fantastic learning about the history behind so many of our iconic Christmas traditions. If you have ever wondered why we do something at Christmas or ever thought when we started doing certain Christmas things then you really need to read thos book as it covers so many interesting traditions. I loved how the author also compares these traditions to different countries. Especially the differences between UK and American traditions. I was especially fascinating reading the bit on which country eats KFC at Christmas I was certainly surprised. I listened to the audiobook and loved that the author read it.he had a great voice and I loved his passion that came through in his reading of this book. I was totally engrossed and definitely shocked in places. This book was well wrote and lots of research obviously went into the writing of this book. It certainly kept my interest throughout and I am so glad that I found this book. I can't wait to talk about it with family at Christmas. Its a perfect read for the Christmas know it all.
I really can't recommend this book enough. There is something for everyone to enjoy learning and there will be loads you never knew about.
So much praise goes out to the author and publishers for creating this wonderful and very interesting book. I would definitely like to read more books from this great author.
I really can't recommend this book enough. There is something for everyone to enjoy learning and there will be loads you never knew about.
So much praise goes out to the author and publishers for creating this wonderful and very interesting book. I would definitely like to read more books from this great author.
October 31, 2022
I might be coming into this a little biased having been previously exposed to Brian Earl's style via the "Christmas Past" podcast. When I saw that there were advanced listening copies available on Netgalley, I jumped at the chance. I'd like to thank them for this opportunity, and this review is unbiased and entirely my own.
Brian Earl's book is just as comforting and wholesome as his podcast. Having this audiobook felt like a little bonus for his regular listeners.
I like how the book itself is broken down into little bite-size sections like an advent calendar, and I could easily see it being read that way. (Listening to it in one large chunk in order to get the review out in time was a less pleasurable experience because I wasn't able to savor it in the actual Christmas season.) The historical facts are interesting, and they provide some depth to holiday traditions that I hadn't known much about.
I miss hearing about the Yule Log. I wish that one had been included.
I will also say that in the audio version, the subsection titles sounded a little out of place, and at moments I didn't realize that was what they were until a few beats later. But, hearing Brian's voice was a treat in and of itself.
Overall, an enjoyable holiday read. I might get myself a hard copy version so that I can read it and enjoy it more thoroughly in the future.
Brian Earl's book is just as comforting and wholesome as his podcast. Having this audiobook felt like a little bonus for his regular listeners.
I like how the book itself is broken down into little bite-size sections like an advent calendar, and I could easily see it being read that way. (Listening to it in one large chunk in order to get the review out in time was a less pleasurable experience because I wasn't able to savor it in the actual Christmas season.) The historical facts are interesting, and they provide some depth to holiday traditions that I hadn't known much about.
I miss hearing about the Yule Log. I wish that one had been included.
I will also say that in the audio version, the subsection titles sounded a little out of place, and at moments I didn't realize that was what they were until a few beats later. But, hearing Brian's voice was a treat in and of itself.
Overall, an enjoyable holiday read. I might get myself a hard copy version so that I can read it and enjoy it more thoroughly in the future.
November 5, 2022
This is an interesting book that tells the story behind some common Christmas traditions. It’s written in a way that is both engaging and informative.
Every Christmas tradition has a story but many of them have been forgotten over the years. Every year those that celebrate the holiday are continuing these traditions but knowing how these began is a whole different story. This book tells you stories about some quirky, disturbing, mysterious and surprising tales behind the most wonderful time of the year. Covered are traditions both ancient and those that are more modern. There are 26 short chapters.
This book tells of happy accidents that have led to some great traditions, cultural histories, criminal acts and more that have influenced what we see as so common today. It’s a fun book that can leave you laughing or picking your jaw up off the floor.
This is a great book to pick up and read a chapter here and there during the holidays to see if anything you celebrate or traditions you have are in here so that you can see where it all started. Fun book.
I received the audiobook from Netgalley (thank you!) so I don't have the physical book but I’ve seen some of the artwork from it and it looks fantastic!
Every Christmas tradition has a story but many of them have been forgotten over the years. Every year those that celebrate the holiday are continuing these traditions but knowing how these began is a whole different story. This book tells you stories about some quirky, disturbing, mysterious and surprising tales behind the most wonderful time of the year. Covered are traditions both ancient and those that are more modern. There are 26 short chapters.
This book tells of happy accidents that have led to some great traditions, cultural histories, criminal acts and more that have influenced what we see as so common today. It’s a fun book that can leave you laughing or picking your jaw up off the floor.
This is a great book to pick up and read a chapter here and there during the holidays to see if anything you celebrate or traditions you have are in here so that you can see where it all started. Fun book.
I received the audiobook from Netgalley (thank you!) so I don't have the physical book but I’ve seen some of the artwork from it and it looks fantastic!
November 12, 2022
Rounding up to 4 stars. The audio version was reviewed, but not yet an option on GoodReads. The audio version was well done; between 4-5 hours.
The author had several podcasts about fascinating holiday traditions; and evidently decided to put his collection together for sale, in time to capture this season's Christmas shoppers.
What bothers me about this collection of "Christmas Past" is that it never mentions the original Christmas ... at all. Never a mention of the baby in the manger. What a shame. I kept hoping that it might be there as the last chapter, but ... nope ... just The End. So tempted to round down to 3 stars. How can you so love Christmas to go through all the effort of capturing and researching the stories and traditions, but bypass that God so loved us that he shared his son with the world?
Narrated by the author, Brian Earl.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to the audiobook version in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author and narrator/Brian Earl and also to RB Media Recorded Books.
The author had several podcasts about fascinating holiday traditions; and evidently decided to put his collection together for sale, in time to capture this season's Christmas shoppers.
What bothers me about this collection of "Christmas Past" is that it never mentions the original Christmas ... at all. Never a mention of the baby in the manger. What a shame. I kept hoping that it might be there as the last chapter, but ... nope ... just The End. So tempted to round down to 3 stars. How can you so love Christmas to go through all the effort of capturing and researching the stories and traditions, but bypass that God so loved us that he shared his son with the world?
Narrated by the author, Brian Earl.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to the audiobook version in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author and narrator/Brian Earl and also to RB Media Recorded Books.
December 8, 2022
Why Christmas trees? What's the deal with fruitcake? Read this book and find out! This was a quick interesting read. I was not aware of the podcast before requesting this book but it appears to be a curated selection of some of the best facts and stories from the episodes. This book does a good job of keeping pace so that the information stays light and interesting. It traces the mostly secular origins of traditions so it might not be the right book for people wanting a religious framework. This would be a fun gift for someone who loves the holidays or for a game of trivia by the fire. I listened to it when the weather turned cold and it made me crave all the holiday flavors and also want to try several new things that were apparently very traditional at one point or another. The author narrates his own book and has a nice storytelling voice. Totally recommend for getting a start on some holiday spirit! Thank you NetGalley and RB Media for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2023
Princess Fuzzypants here: Christmas- or Catmus as we kitties call it- in days gone by was not what we see as “traditional” today. In fact, for a very long time, it was not even considered a major holiday. Some of the older traditions are a blend of other traditions that were absorbed. In fact some come from pagan rituals. There were times when certain things cropped up and became annual events or foods. Those too have changed over the centuries. But the closest start to what we see as Christmas is from Victorian times. There were some traditions that I knew already to have begun then and some that I did not know. The fact that train travel and mass transportation allowed families to gather makes sense but I had never considered the cause.
The book looks at customs and foods- including recipes for those who are tempted to try something different. It is filled with lots of detail and fun facts. There is quite a bit of repetition which is unfortunate but the reader will come away with a fuller appreciation of Christmas traditions. Four purrs and one paw up.
The book looks at customs and foods- including recipes for those who are tempted to try something different. It is filled with lots of detail and fun facts. There is quite a bit of repetition which is unfortunate but the reader will come away with a fuller appreciation of Christmas traditions. Four purrs and one paw up.
December 12, 2023
5 stars
These are the kind of books I truly love. I love finding out why we do the things we do, whether psychologically, historically, or with traditions such as Christmas, I find it fascinating to see how people change and the world is shaped over time. Brian Earl is like me, he wanted to know the origins of our favorite Christmas carols, meals, treats, and so much more.
I’d never heard of his podcast prior to reading this book, but I’m glad someone out there cares and has done the research to satiate my interest. I’ve always been interested in holiday origins, typically my interest stems from the Paagn origins of many of our existing holidays, but this book really doesn’t go back that far. Earl sticks with our more modern traditions, which doesn’t bother me. This book is succinct and interesting and satisfied my curiosity.
If you’re a history person and a christmas person, you’re going to love this book too.
These are the kind of books I truly love. I love finding out why we do the things we do, whether psychologically, historically, or with traditions such as Christmas, I find it fascinating to see how people change and the world is shaped over time. Brian Earl is like me, he wanted to know the origins of our favorite Christmas carols, meals, treats, and so much more.
I’d never heard of his podcast prior to reading this book, but I’m glad someone out there cares and has done the research to satiate my interest. I’ve always been interested in holiday origins, typically my interest stems from the Paagn origins of many of our existing holidays, but this book really doesn’t go back that far. Earl sticks with our more modern traditions, which doesn’t bother me. This book is succinct and interesting and satisfied my curiosity.
If you’re a history person and a christmas person, you’re going to love this book too.
November 6, 2022
Brian Earl has done an amazing job with deep diving into how we got to present day Christmas traditions. I am a bit of a Christmas geek and loved learning new things about my favorite holiday. I did not know people used to put a piece of fruitcake under their pillow to dream about their future spouse. I have no idea what fruit cake could do, but whatever works! Wassailing was kind of like trick or treating, but with booze. I wish that was a thing in my neck of the woods.
The amount of little nuggets of trivia made my heart warm. I highly recommend if you are a trivia aficionado and want to learn a little more about how we got to today’s Christmas traditions.
His narration was on point and I would gladly listen to anything else he may choose to narrate.
A huge thank you to Net Galley, RB Media and Recorded Books for the ARC Audiobook. All opinions are my own.
5/5
The amount of little nuggets of trivia made my heart warm. I highly recommend if you are a trivia aficionado and want to learn a little more about how we got to today’s Christmas traditions.
His narration was on point and I would gladly listen to anything else he may choose to narrate.
A huge thank you to Net Galley, RB Media and Recorded Books for the ARC Audiobook. All opinions are my own.
5/5
November 14, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley and RB Media for providing me an e-arc of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review
I enjoyed this history of many different Christmas traditions. This book looks at 25 of the most popular secular Christmas traditions in America and delves into the origins of each one. I was often surprised by how recent some of our "long held" traditions really are.
I listened to this on audiobook and so the chapters ran together a little, but the idea of being able to read one chapter a day in December does seem like a nice use of this book!
The only thing I did not enjoy was that the opening of the book felt really long and Brian Earl takes quite a moment to promote his podcast which, at least while listening to the audiobook, sounds like it is the exact same thing that the reader is currently consuming.
I enjoyed this history of many different Christmas traditions. This book looks at 25 of the most popular secular Christmas traditions in America and delves into the origins of each one. I was often surprised by how recent some of our "long held" traditions really are.
I listened to this on audiobook and so the chapters ran together a little, but the idea of being able to read one chapter a day in December does seem like a nice use of this book!
The only thing I did not enjoy was that the opening of the book felt really long and Brian Earl takes quite a moment to promote his podcast which, at least while listening to the audiobook, sounds like it is the exact same thing that the reader is currently consuming.
December 12, 2025
Ever wonder what's behind your favorite holiday traditions? From wassail to poinsettias to those classic holiday TV specials, Brian Earl will tell you the stories of how America influenced holiday traditions and how those traditions continue to influence America.
I'm a fan of the Christmas Past podcast so I had to grab this book when I heard it was out. The chapters are primarily rehashed episodes of the podcast but extra tidbits of information are scattered throughout. Earl narrates the audiobook with his usual cheer.
It's generally a light pop-culture style history book. Nothing overly academic. Some fun experts - like the actor who played Flick on Christmas Story and the only person in the world who know the recipe for the snow inside snow globes. Enjoyable and a good gift for anyone who likes history or Christmas.
I'm a fan of the Christmas Past podcast so I had to grab this book when I heard it was out. The chapters are primarily rehashed episodes of the podcast but extra tidbits of information are scattered throughout. Earl narrates the audiobook with his usual cheer.
It's generally a light pop-culture style history book. Nothing overly academic. Some fun experts - like the actor who played Flick on Christmas Story and the only person in the world who know the recipe for the snow inside snow globes. Enjoyable and a good gift for anyone who likes history or Christmas.
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December 27, 2022I downloaded this audiobook after hearing the author on @jenhatmaker’s For the Love podcast. The author hosts a podcast all about Christmas traditions @christmaspastofficial
I enjoyed listening to the stories behind Christmas traditions around the world and how they have changed through time.
Some topics feel nostalgic as the author explore traditions of different generations.
The of commercialism and advertising in popular Christmas traditions is interesting, if less-than-magical.
Topics include candy canes, fruit cake, movies, TV specials, gift wrap, Christmas carols, and more.
I particularly enjoyed the Rudolph story.
If you like nonfiction, Christmas, and origin stories of popular traditions, check this one out!
December 16, 2024
Every year I furiously lament the fact that there is no decent documentary on the origins of Santa Clause, so I very much enjoyed this! It’s a cute and interesting book about the story behind holiday traditions and symbols. It was however just a compiling of the podcast episodes with little to no new information or interviews, so just go listen to the podcast and pick and choose what you’re interested in learning about. It’s a cool idea to listen to this as an advent/one chapter a day but I don’t have that kind of will power. Oh also Brian/the author reads it and takes like very audible breaths before each sentence which I’ve never noticed on the podcast but found at first annoying and then funny here.
November 11, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this audiobook. I was excited to give this book a listen since my family and I truly enjoy Brian Earl's podcast of the same name. This audiobook did not disappoint! Brian Earl shares the often unknown history of so many of my favorite parts of Christmas in this book. It is well researched and written with care. Earl has a way to covering very specific details about Christmas traditions with humor and so much information. Whilst narrating this audiobook Earl kept me engaged and interested in learning more. If you love Christmas, I would highly recommend a listen.
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