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WHAT
TO GIVE, WHAT TO GET 2001: Begin Your Holiday Shopping With Us
Big Gifts in Small Packages
Some of my fondest memories come from the small packages that would appear in the mailbox or come tumbling out of my Christmas stocking --- little books that brought big smiles and a world of imaginative prose. From early childhood, Beatrix Potter's series on Peter Rabbit and family would show up regularly; THE TAILOR OF GLOUCESTER was a particular favorite. Another was Paul Gallico's SNOWFLAKE. In later years, small volumes of poetry or art --- gifts from my children --- held a special place in my heart. In this season when we have so many gifts to buy, parties to attend, and thank yous to say, take some time to browse through these selections below and share a large joy through a small package with the friends, family, and coworkers in your life.
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THE MITFORD SNOWMEN
by Jan Karon
Viking Press
ISBN: 0670030198
Like most things in small towns, the Snowman contest begins with a rumor and...well...snowballs from there. Before you know it, half the town is out on the sidewalk putting together their own creations, and some of them look suspiciously like the delightful folks of Mitford. This charming little story would make the perfect stocking stuffer for young and old, whether they're familiar with Jan Karon's Mitford or not. It's a simple winter moment in "the little town with the big heart" and, with its adorable illustrations, will bring a much-needed smile this season.
For more information about Jan Karon and the Mitford Series, go to MitfordBooks.com.
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GOD BLESS THE USA (Book and CD edition)
by Lee Greenwood
Rutledge Hill Press
ISBN: 1558539875
In 1983 singer/songwriter Lee Greenwood wrote "God Bless the USA" with the hope of inspiring all Americans to come together and embrace our differences. Now, in 2001, Greenwood has chosen to use his song as a symbol of the spirit of America in the wake of September 11. This small volume is beautifully illustrated with photos and reproductions that depict both sad and uplifting moments throughout our history. Among the pages are quotations from notable Americans Thomas Paine, Amelia Earhart, and General Omar Bradley to presidents Jefferson, Roosevelt, Kennedy, and Reagan. Accompanied by a CD containing Greenwood's trademark song, this would make a wonderful gift for this holiday season.
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FRENCH LESSONS: Adventures with Knife, Fork, and Corkscrew
by Peter Mayle
Knopf
ISBN: 0375405909
Peter Mayle, the best-selling author of A YEAR IN PROVENCE, has combined food and travel into one lovely volume that highlights his journey across France in search of the best food festivals and celebrations. With an obvious sense of humor, his chapters reveal the variety of cuisine he encountered --- "The Thigh-Taster of Vitel" and "Slow Food" (frog legs and snails, respectively) --- and the colorful anecdotes that made his adventure so worthwhile. Whether an armchair traveler or a gourmet cook, this book would make the perfect gift for a friend or coworker this season.
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THE ESSENTIAL DALE CHIHULY
by William Warmus
Harry N. Abrams
ISBN: 0810958120
Among the perennial favorites for the gift book list are The Essential Series from Harry N. Abrams, Inc. There is a wide variety of artists covered in the available editions, with more being added each year. A current favorite covers one of the hottest artists today, Dale Chihuly. Renowned for his amazing glass sculptures --- on display from New York to the canals of Venice --- Chihuly has revitalized public interest in the art of glass blowing for whole new generations. In this season when the spiritual significance of all things takes on more importance, the astounding story of his 64-ton Jerusalem Wall of Ice that was erected in 1999 is inspirational. In fact, the size and scope of his unique talent make for fascinating reading. As always, the book is beautifully illustrated with photographs of the artist's work and quotations from various sources, including the artist himself. Any of the books in this series would make the perfect gift for someone's stocking or for that office gift exchange.
Others in this series that have appeared in our annual What To Give/What To Get feature include:
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THE WISDOM OF NARNIA
by C. S. Lewis
HarperCollins Juvenile Books
ISBN: 006623851X
More than half a century has passed since THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE by C. S. Lewis brought the magical land of Narnia to life. In this superb little volume, THE WISDOM OF NARNIA, fans will find some of the favorite quotations and words of wisdom drawn from the pages of all seven books in THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA series. For young and old alike, this would be a fantastic gift for someone special on your list.
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HAVE A COOL YULE: Merry Christmas from Will Bullas
by Will Bullas
The Greenwich Workshop Press
ISBN: 0867130687
If you've ever been on the spot to get a gift for someone you work with, or just want to show your appreciation to the person who baby-sits your children, walks your dog, or keeps your files in perfect order --- here's the answer! With his typical brand of humor and never-ending imagination, Bullas has created some Christmas cheer through this colorful volume of whimsical animal illustrations and humorous text. From the balletic "Nutquaker" to the "mistletoad," there are loads of chuckles to delight everyone on your list.
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WISCONSIN: The Spirit of America (Art of the State Series)
by Joanne Trestrail
Harry N. Abrams
ISBN: 0810955733
For anyone who grew up on Laura Ingalls Wilder, this little travelogue through the history and art of Wisconsin is a nostalgic trip. Representing one of the newest issues in this series on the states, this magnificent little book chronicles the history of the state, its people, places, and most of all, its contributions in the arts. If you want to collect all 50 states, you'll have to be patient --- there are only 22 available so far. But with each new edition, it's a wonderful way to travel America and learn about the country we live in. And what better gift for a child who's learning their state's history, or moving to a new state, than a volume all about their home? Pick up WISCONSIN, or any of the other states that have been featured, and enjoy!
Previously reviewed in our annual What To Give/What To Get feature:
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Copyright 2001, Bookreporter.com. All rights reserved.
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