The Shortest Day

"Dec. 21 is the shortest day of the year, and the only thing you should do on that day (OK, fine, any day you want) is curl up under a blanket and read this poem by Susan Cooper. Start in a hushed tone, so you don’t disturb Carson Ellis’ cozy, snow-blanketed, candle-lit illustrations. But let your voice crescendo as the sun rises, the pages brighten and the revelers celebrate the light by caroling and feasting with their friends. The Shortest Day is about just one day, the winter solstice. But at its heart it’s a story about hope, anticipation and love. And it doesn’t hurt to have more of that every day of the year. Don’t forget your hot cocoa. (For ages 5 and older)"