Friday, January 7, 2011

The Story of Valentine's Day


Valentine's Day is one of America's favorite holidays, but the origins of this joyous occasion are shrouded in mystery. The Story of Valentine's Day reveals the ancient legends behind the holiday and how it evolved over the centuries. Valentine's Day wasn't always a time for red hearts, pink cupcakes, flowers, chocolate and mushy greeting cards. Most scholars say this love-focused day leapt gleefully from the Roman holiday Lupercalia, a festival celebrated more than 2,000 years ago to mark the beginning of spring. After Christianity came to Rome, the Church decided to use this day to honor a priest instead. They renamed the holiday St. Valentine's Day, and scooted the date back to February 14. The Story of Valentine's Day, artfully illustrated by Susan Estelle Kwas, paints the history of this age-old occasion in a style and presentation that's as straight as a Cupid's arrow. Kids will learn about the mysterious character Valentine, how the tradition of the day spread to other countries, and when the very first valentine was written. And to enhance this year's February 14th festival, readers will find a recipe for heart-shaped sugar cookies and instructions for making antique-style valentines. Packed with fascinating facts, two romantic tales about St. Valentine, and vivid illustrations, this book is a warm tribute to this beloved holiday.

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