I recently read an article (which of course now I cannot locate) about how pagan celebrations are not really shown in children’s books, and how a company was started to create books on the subject. I was intrigued. I might not be a pagan, or really know anyone who is, but I am interested in books about other holidays, celebrations, religious beliefs, and so forth. I asked my local library to see if they could find me one (or more) of them. So far, the one they have been able to locate is Luke & the Longest Night: A Wheel of the Year Book by Kathleen Converse and Hanna Sultanova.
In a poetic manner, the child, Luke, is shown doing the things he and his friends do to partake in the winter celebration of Yule. It is a celebration filled with songs, treats, and gifts (sound familiar?). We see some of the more familiar things (such as a tree for decoration) associated with the winter holidays, as well as, the more unique events to this particular celebration. While the story itself was a bit disjointed (the story is there is a storm on the longest night/the night of the celebration, and how Luke is afraid, but how he is comforted by being around his loved ones), it is a decent introduction.
There is much in the way of backmatter and includes spells. This backmatter would make it (as the publisher description says) for “more nature-based households.” As an adult reading it, I was intrigued and learned a few things, but wanted more. It does feel aimed more towards a family who are more included to already celebrate, and I am not sure if I know any child ready for all of this book, but it is something that can get you talking. The illustrations were a slight miss for me, as they felt more “computer” and less “natural.” However, they are nice. They have some nice colors and details to them. They might not be for everyone but really fit the tone of the story.
A few other books in the Wheel of the Year series include Flora & the First Day of Spring and in 2024, Sam & the Samhain Scare. The publisher also has other books dealing with more earth and spiritual ideas.