"Newbery Medallist Cooper's beautiful poem is celebrated in this stunning picture book richly complemented by Carson's illustrations. All about Winter and "driving the dark away” as one year ends and another begins."
So the shortest day came, and the year died... As the sun set on the shortest day of the year, early people would gather to prepare for the long night ahead. They built fires and lit candles. They played music, bringing their own light to the darkness, while wondering if the sun would ever rise again...
Written for a theatrical production that has become a ritual in itself, Susan Cooper's poem The Shortest Day captures the magic behind the returning of the light, the yearning for traditions that connect us with generations that have gone before - and the hope for peace that we carry into the future. Richly illuminated by Carson Ellis, this beautiful book evokes the joy and community found in the ongoing mystery of life when we celebrate light, thankfulness, and festivity at a time of rebirth. Welcome Yule!
Cooper's poem is transformed into a highly atmospheric picture book thanks to Ellis' illuminating art. A celebration of winter and the return of light, for readers of any or no faith. -- Fiona Noble - The Bookseller
Author
About Susan Cooper
Born in England, Susan Cooper was a reporter and feature writer for the London Sunday Times before coming to live in the United States. Her television screenplays for adults have received two Writers Guild Awards and two Emmy nominations. Susan Cooper lives in Connecticut with her actor husband, Hume Cronyn.
