Christmas USA

You would think that, in the United States of America, Christmas would be celebrated the same way in each and every state, but the opposite is true. Within CHRISTMAS USA, Mary D. Lankford takes readers on a Christmas journey through the Northeast, Southeast, Great Lakes, Mountain States, Plains States, Southwest, and Pacific States, giving information on how our neighbors celebrate the holidays. To wrap things up, Lankford takes us inside the White House and the Post Office, providing readers with a sneak peek at how certain traditions were born; and giving readers ideas on different ways that they can celebrate the holidays, by incorporating some of these fun, and fairly unique traditions into your own. But CHRISTMAS USA is not just a fact book, providing readers with information; Lankford has spiced things up a bit by including easy-to-follow instructions on making various holiday-related craft projects and recipes that will certainly assist in making your season bright. Instructions regarding making a Christmas journal, cascarones, Christmas tree decorations, and much more are present; but recipes for edible items, such as nut crescents, double peanut cookies, and aniseed cookies are easily explained. Lankford, in association with Karen Dugan - whose illustrations truly bring CHRISTMAS USA to life - have compiled a delightful holiday addition to the literary world. The historical facts provide readers with a learning experience; while the recipes and craft projects add a sense of fun, creativity, and family-time that is difficult to ignore. A trip across the United States just in time for Christmas! Erika Sorocco Freelance Reviewer

CHRISTMAS USA is more than just a book of facts. Although the author has broken up the United States into several parts--Northeast, Southeast, Great Lakes, Plains, Southwest, Mountain, and Pacific--this is a book perfect for children and adults alike, regardless of where in the USA you reside. Filled with such interesting facts as when Christmas trees became part of the US tradition, when Christmas was first declared a legal holiday, and which US President instituted an official tree in the White House, CHRISTMAS USA presents these facts in a fun, interesting way. It's not just a book of facts, though. It's also filled with hands-on activities such as how to make a Christmas Journal, making your own Christmas cards, how to make cranberry or popcorn garland, easy directions for cookie Christmas tree ornaments, and creating a pomander and cascarones. It also includes some tasty, easy-to-follow recipes for aniseed cookies, nut crescents, and scripture cake, to name a few. This is a great book to share with your children. Not only will they learn about different holiday customs and traditions around the US, but they'll be able to follow the easy instructions for the crafts and activities and, with adult supervision, might even be able to whip up some yummy holiday treats for the whole family! Reviewed by: Jennifer Wardrip, aka "The Genius"