by Paula Guran
First published 2012
This anthology presents seventeen tales where holiday magic intersects with the extraordinary. Writers like Connie Willis, Gene Wolfe, and Charles de Lint craft stories where Christmas spirits manifest in unexpected ways, seasonal celebrations take on supernatural dimensions, and winter solstice rituals unlock hidden powers. The collection spans fantasy kingdoms where dragons observe their own winter ceremonies to futuristic societies that have reimagined holiday traditions. Nina Kiriki Hoffman explores what happens when someone tries to return home for Christmas through mystical means, while Janet Kagan presents a tale involving a nutcracker with revolutionary implications. Orson Scott Card contributes a story about wise men, and Harlan Ellison offers his take on following mysterious lights. Each story captures how the winter season amplifies both wonder and transformation, whether through magical interventions, scientific marvels, or encounters with otherworldly beings. The anthology reveals how holiday traditions persist and evolve across different realms of possibility.
Genres: short-stories, anthologies, fantasy, holiday
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking, whimsical
Tropes: found-family, magical-realism
382 pages · Paperback · Prime Books