The magical time of year that is Christmas evokes strong images of home and hearth for most Canadians. As a newcomer to Prince Edward Island in the 1970s, Deirdre Kessler was astounded by how generations of Islanders have been celebrating their Christmas in much the same way as their ancestors did. These traditions of home and hearth, of food, gifts, decorating and music are captured here in words and images. In capturing this fascinating time of year, Kessler manages to bring readers closer to that precious time where the world seems to stop and we feel closer to our roots, our families and our friends.