Father Christmas ABC - Bodleian Library

Q is the Quadrille, danced at our party
R for the Reindeer, of Santa Claus hearty


This very special picture book is an unusual and utterly enchanting ABC entirely devoted to the theme of Christmas. Each of the twenty-six images opens a window onto festive celebration, from the lighting of the candles on the tree, to bell-ringing, ice skating and making jam tarts. The images are of superb quality, bringing to life each event with vivid strokes and colour.

The accompanying verses tell simply but engagingly of the round of joyful activities which delighted young children. Together, they tell a narrative story of a child's Victorian Christmas, celebrated in the splendour and cosiness of the family home.

First printed in 1894, this beautiful book is sure to become a new children's classic, evoking Christmas of a bygone era with tremendous appeal and unrivalled charm.