Xmas (or Christmas)

A large-format picture-book version of the story of Christmas, with text adapted from the words of the Bible, and fully illustrated and highlighted with gold, by the Smarties prize-winning artist Jane Ray.

The meaning of Christmas is to give of yourself to open up the joy in your heart and share it generously. If you do this properly, then every day will feel like Christmas.

A philosophical but fun look at the meanings of Christmas myths and rituals, from carving the turkey to why Santa wears red Picture the scene: Aunt Gertrude has just given you the most appalling Christmas tie, complete with snow-flecked kittens in a bowler hat. Do you smile, nod, and confine it to the bottom drawer? Or do you tell the truth and spare yourself future ties from hell? Kant would say that we must, at all costs, tell the truth - whilst Mill would insist that we should think of the consequences. The Xmas Files is a phi... read more

Cards h174mm x w144mm full colour illustrations throughout 50 Cards Spiral bound First published 2007.

This captivating title contains fifteen enchanting activities that use a selection of simple stitching techniques. It includes festive projects such as a reindeer collage, Christmas stockings, hanging star decorations and a beautiful fabric holly wreath. It is suitable for children who are just beginning to learn the craft of stitching or those who already have some experience, each stitching activity is clearly illustrated with easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions. First published 2007.

Santa Claus - the very name conjures up images of a merry man in a coat with fur trim, presents, sleigh, elves… But how does Santa's suit work in boiling hot climatesA And what do the reindeer have for breakfastbSanta Claus answers these and other questions in 15 themed spreads. Take a look at Santa's house and his workshop, where all the mail is sorted. Discover how his reindeer are selected and trained, where they live and what they eat. Found out how his sleigh works, and how he travels around the world in time to del... read more

It's Christmas! Spot is decorating the tree and wrapping presents. Then he hangs up his stocking and waits for Father Christmas in this brightly coloured board book.

'The perfect anti-Christmas present from one of America's 'most prickly, and most delicious comic talents' - Washington Post SantaLand Diaries collects six of David Sedaris's most profound Christmas stories into one slender volume perfect for use as a last-minute coaster or ice-scraper. This drinking man's companion can be enjoyed by the warmth of a raging fire, the glow of a brilliantly decorated tree, or even in the back seat of a police car. It should be read with your eyes, felt with your heart, and heard only when spoken to.... read more

A wonderful Christmas story, illustrated by Quentin Blake. Julien

Spot the dog, everyone's favourite puppy, discovers the wonders of Christmas in this perfect lift-the-flap adventure for toddlers.

A lovely gift book at a pocket friendly price, created by asking real children why they love Christmas and combining their words with wonderful illustrations. The book also includes a name plate to personalise makes this the perfect Christmas gift, to or from, any loving child.

The glorious publication of Clement C Moore's timeless verse sees it brought to new life by the beautiful illustrations of Christian Birmingham. Every Christmas Eve brings with it hushed anticipation and wonder. Here is the story of this magical night, when children around the world await the arrival of the gifts that symbolise all the warmth and love of Christmas.

Angelina and cousin Henry visit lonely old Mr Bell, the retired village postman, and invite him to Angelina's Christmas show. He comes dressed as Father Christmas and hands out Christmas presents to everyone. First published 1985.

This bestselling story has now been brilliantly adapted for audio CD and there are two readings - the first is a straight reading with music, and the second has a special sound to indicate where to turn each page as you read along. Angelina Mouseling and her cousin Henry visit lonely old Mr Bell, the retired postman, and invite him to Angelina's Christmas show. He comes dressed as Father Christmas and hands out presents to everyone.

The only book this year that provides every recipe and idea that you will need to plan and enjoy the months ahead of Christmas to New Year's Eve. Sarah Raven, author of 2007's stunning Garden Cookbook (voted cookbook of the year by the Guild of Food Writers' and the Independent), presents the last word on food, flowers and decorations for the Christmas season. First, Sarah guides us through the Christmas build-up, suggesting puddings, sauces and edible presents to prepare before everything becomes too hectic. She then offers maxi... read more

Discover a simpler, greener Christmas with hand-crafted gifts and cards, natural decorations and traditional recipes. Escape the modern-day commercial Christmas and enjoy a simpler, greener and craftier way of celebrating. Decorate the Christmas tree with homemade gingerbread men, craft a simple wreath from fallen leaves, make gift labels and cards from vintage fabrics, and make traditional Christmas recipes with locally sourced organic food. Sheherazade Goldsmith and a team of crafters give you over 80 wonderful ideas and projects... read more

This is a hugely enjoyable, festive excursion through the history, science, music, culture and traditions of everyone's favourite winter holiday.Why is Christmas celebrated on 25 December? Why is turkey the traditional festive meat? Why are stockings hung up on Christmas Eve? What is figgy pudding? Who were the three kings? And did Coca-Cola really invent Father Christmas as we're all told?Just like the perfect Christmas stocking, What is Myrrh Anyway? contains all manner of delightful surprises and delicious morsels of information... read more

You don't have to be Scrooge to find Christmas and New Year an ordeal. So much to think of, so much to prepare, so much to eat. Written by the authors of last year's hit, Dad Stuff, Stuff the Turkey is the tongue-in-cheek, yet informative, guide to the Christmas season. * Enough games to entertain the children through the 12 days of Christmas * Weird Christmas facts (the time zones give Santa 31 hours in which to deliver his gifts which means he visits 832 homes per second!) * How to deal with carol singers * Advice on avoiding acc... read more

This edition first published 2003.

Baby Christmas wants to be just like his daddy. So, one snowy Christmas Eve, his mummy puts him in his Santa suit and hitches Rudolph Junior to his sleigh ...Little does Mother Christmas know that tonight is the night Rudolph Junior decides he can fly! First published 2006.