The Carols of Christmas: A Celebration of the Surprising Stories Behind Your Favorite Holiday Songs

Enjoy the holidays in a whole new way as you delve into the fascinating history behind some of the best-loved carols of the Christmas season.

From Andrew Gant, Oxford professor and renowned British composer, The Carols of Christmas is a joyous account of the history behind our favorite carols--from Advent through Epiphany.

Everyone loves a carol--in the end, even Ebenezer Scrooge had a soft spot for them! They have the power to evoke a special type of mid-winter joy, like the aroma of gingerbread or the twinkle of lights on a tree. It's a kind of magic.

But how did they get that magic? Join Andrew Gant—a choirmaster, church musician, university professor, and writer— and he tells you the captivating, and often surprising, stories behind twenty beloved holiday carols. Along the way you will explore the history of Christmas favorites like:

O, Christmas Tree Hark, the Herald Angels Sing Away in a Manger The Twelve Days of Christmas Jingle Bells And many more!

During your journey you will discover answers to some of the biggest questions about these treasured carols, including:

How did the most beloved carols come to be? Why do we sing the versions of carols that we do? How did these carols stand the test of time?

A charming and engaging read that brims with anecdotes, expert knowledge, and Christmas cheer, The Carols of Christmas is a fittingly joyous account of one of the best-loved musical traditions that will get you into the holiday spirit.