I want to start out this particular review with a shout-out to the author, Lesley Bannatyne. Years ago I did my very first review on another one of my blogs. The book was another one of the author's. I had no idea what I was doing but her publisher loved it so much and she did too that I received the book.
She was so gracious and ended up giving me an interview as well. What she did for me was reignited my love of reading, my love for reviewing (remember book reports) and my love for this holiday. I cannot thank her enough.
So, having said that, I am now getting another chance to read her how to book. In case you did not know, the author is one of the foremost experts on Halloween and the traditions behind it. This book let's her expertise shine.
As with many books, there is an acknowledgement page. I only mention this because the author is humble enough to know that her expertise comes from studying those who have come before her and those who enjoy the holiday as much as she does.
The book starts as all of her books do with the history of Halloween. Suffice it to say, this makes sense, as the book points out all traditions we have now can be pinpointed to certain things. The development of the Halloween we know now has morphed over many times.
Since this is basically a how-to book, that author covers everything you need to know for celebrating your own Halloween parties and traditions. From choosing the best pumpkins to carve, to floating in one, to how to decorate your house, feed your guest, and spook them at the same time. Yes, recipes are included and this reviewer kept a couple! *wink*
She goes on to tell the readers about real and not-so-real haunted houses across the country that includes addresses, websites, and phone numbers. Some of the best Halloween sites are discussed including, of course, Salem! (*Note: since this book was published in 2002 it is very possible that some of this information has changed due to the pandemic. I suggest looking up for updated details.)
One of the things I found intriguing was her section on myths and monsters. She breaks these things wide open and a couple, for me, was surprising. For eg. the razor in the apples myth. Yes, I grew up with that and even had my candy x-rayed. She discusses that too!
Finally, the book nears the end with trends we have today and for our future. Some people think that Halloween will fade away as other holiday have. However, the author makes a strong case for the continuation of Halloween in this book. I for one, think she is right!
If you, the reader, did not get enough from my review, of course, I highly recommend reading this book. You will find even more information in the back that includes resources and a bibliography.
This book gets 5 pumpkins from me!
Lesley Bannatyne is an American author who writes extensively on Halloween, especially its history, literature, and contemporary celebration. Bannatyne is also a freelance journalist who's covered stories ranging from druids in Somerville, Massachusetts to relief workers in Bolivia. Her most recent book, Halloween Nation. Behind the Scenes of America's Fright Night, was nominated for a Bram Stoker Award. She has written four other books on Halloween including a history, an anthology, a children's book and a How-To. Read more on http://www.iskullhalloween.com
1 comment:
Sounds like a cool book!
Post a Comment