DECK THE HALL

The stories of our Favourite Christmas Carols

Published by: Hodder & Stoughton

Written by: Andrew Gant

Price: £16.99

This fascinating hardback offers a seasonal insight into the roots and meaning of some of our best-loved and (lesser-known) Christmas carols.

Carols were once sung throughout the year, but only those from Christmas have endured, according to the author, as he offers insights into the history and intent of 27 carols – most well-known, but a few may be new to readers.

Written in a light-hearted style, the book answers such questions as: which carol lent its name to a satire about the Foreign Secretary? Which carol was the first song to be broadcast from space and what exactly is a ‘dancing day’?

The book is a veritable treasure trove of facts and knowledges not just about the featured carols, but about the roots of each and is testament to the knowledge and background of the author, a well-known composer, conductor and university lecturer who has directed a number of leading choirs and has led choirs at many notable occasions, including the Golden and Diamond Jubilee services at St Paul’s for the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Produced with charm (and supported by serious intellect, knowledge and reference), the book also touches on some of the non-religious carols, including Jingle Bells and We Wish You a Merry Christmas.

Aimed at music lovers, factfinders and Christmas enthusiasts, Gant explains in his entertaining introduction: ‘Tracing the history of our carol tradition can be a bit like trying to sweep up all the stray pine needles when you’ve taken down your Christmas tree: there’s always a corner you find you haven’t reached.’

From the opening words: ‘One Christmas I found myself in Oxford Street, admiring the twinkly decorations and listening to a piped version of Jingle Bells. In Chinese,’ this festive box of delights is a seasonal treat for all interested in the most enduring songs of the season.