It is often said that the modern way of celebrating Christmas derives from Charles Dickens and the publication of his short book A Christmas Carol on December 19, 1843. But as is so often the case, when we look into it, the matter is more complicated. Traditions do not have a simple origin, though in…

A selection of titles for adults, both secular and religious, fort he Christmas season

The Miracle of the Myrrh by Marci Alborghetti illustrated by Hervé Blondon Winslow House International, €13.50/£10.70) Though not exactly a new book, this illustrated tale of the first Christmas has provided many families with just the right kind of text to read together and to explore the true meaning of Christmas from a Christian point…

The Homesman by Glendon Swarthout (Simon & Schuster, €9.99/£7.99)

Paddington Bear

by Jonathan Irwin with Emily Hourican (Mercier Press, €16.99/£13.50)

by Rónán Johnston (Goodnewsbooks.net/What’s Your Story, price not supplied)

In this large album, Galway historian Cormac Ó Comhraí attempts to mingle the story of Ireland’s involvement with the Great War in the wider world and the course of events, often moving in other directions, back in Ireland itself. His research has been assiduous, and he has collected many unusual, unknown or forgotten images of…

Parenting When Separated: Helping Your Children Cope and Thrive

The Lent Factor: Forty Companions for the Forty days of Lent