The Book of Halloween

The Book of Halloween is an excellent compilation of folklore, poems, and traditions compiled at the dawn of the 20th century by Ruth Edna Kelley. Speaking on Scottish, Welsh, English, American, and ancient pagan practices, it traces the timeline of this holiday from its pre-christian roots to the then-modern era. With a bit of witchcraft, some jack o'lanterns, will-o the wisps and some strange stories from Grimm, Gay's "Pastorals" and other works, it provides an excellent broad overview of the history and lore of Halloween.

A Vintage Volume of Halloween History!

Originally published in 1919, Ruth Edna Kelley's THE BOOK OF HALLOWE'EN remains the all time classic exploration of Halloween history, from the mysterious year end rites of the ancient Celts, to the autumnal reign of Samhain, the Druid god of death, to the coming to Europe of Christianity and "All Saints Day," to the charming early 20th Century Halloween beliefs and customs of Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales, France, Germany and America. Filled with Halloween poems, games and tried and true ancient methods for divining the future (especially for discovering the identity of one's future spouse!), THE BOOK OF HALLOWE'EN opens a captivating window into the past of one of today's most beloved holidays.

This Better Days Books edition of THE BOOK OF HALLOWE'EN is a quality reprint containing the full text of the original 1919 edition, along with a new full color cover inspired by a genuine vintage Halloween card from the era.

Often imitated, but never equaled, Ruth Edna Kelley's THE BOOKS OF HALLOWE'EN remains the most complete, fun and fascinating exploration of the Halloween holiday available in this or any Century.

Vintage Halloween and antiquarian book collectors, rejoice!