JOYS OF CHRISTMAS PAST

Clement Moore's "A Visit from St. Nicholas" (1823) begins this lovely anthology of poems. Voices are varied, and the narrators seem perfect for their chosen poems. Selections are religious, as well as secular, and strains of Christmas music enhance them throughout. An 1890's "Christmas Alphabet" is particularly clever. "A New-Fashioned Christmas" written in 1890, could have been written today--"We want the very latest, dear madam, you and I, and peace, goodwill and Christmas are of a time gone by." There is also a read-along book, which adds to the spirit. A wise addition for collections that feature seasonal materials and a good choice for families to share. S.G.B. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT 94]