Description

Welcome to the captivating world of A Christmas Bestiary, where the cozy charm of the holiday season meets the eerie thrill of the supernatural. Published by St. Martin’s Press, this unique guide invites you to journey into the depths of festive folklore and uncover the frightful creatures that lurk in the shadows during Christmastime.

As the winter chill settles in, we often find ourselves enveloped in joyful thoughts of family gatherings, gift-giving, and delightful treats like sugarplums. However, amidst this warmth, it is crucial to remember that the night can be dark and full of terrors. Benni Bødker and John Kenn Mortensen, the bold adventurers behind this book, have traveled extensively to compile a comprehensive catalog of the most frightful beings that haunt the holiday season.

This essential guidebook delves into the lore of both common and obscure creatures, ranging from the infamous Baba Yaga and the notorious Krampus to the lesser-known yet perilous Yule Wight and Gryla. Each entry is meticulously crafted, featuring Bødker’s concise yet informative text that provides insight into the background and danger levels of these mythical beings. Although this guide offers no guarantees for your safety, it equips you with the knowledge necessary to navigate the festive perils.

At the heart of this book are Mortensen’s stunning gothic illustrations, rendered in intricate pen-and-ink. These black-and-white artworks breathe life into the bone-chilling beasts that populate the pages, creating a visual feast that complements the written word. Each illustration captures the essence of the creature it depicts, pulling readers deeper into the enchanting yet frightening world of Christmas beasts.

A Christmas Bestiary is more than just a collection of frightful tales; it is a playful and practical resource for anyone who loves or fears the things that go bump in the night. Whether you’re a folklore enthusiast, a lover of the macabre, or someone simply seeking to add a touch of spookiness to your holiday festivities, this guide is the perfect companion. It encourages you to embrace the duality of the season, acknowledging both the joy and the terror that can coexist during the most wonderful time of the year.

As you explore this tome, you will discover:

In conclusion, A Christmas Bestiary serves as both a delightful read and a chilling reminder of the darker aspects of the holiday season. It’s an invitation to explore the stories and traditions that shape our understanding of Christmas while recognizing that sometimes, the most enchanting tales are also the most terrifying. So, gather your courage, delve into the pages of this exceptional guide, and prepare to meet the creatures of the night that come alive during the most wonderful time of the year.