The Little Book of Horrors

Halloween is a very special time of year and takes on huge significance for a vast number of people in different ways. For many, it's a chance to dress up, wander the streets for a trick or treat session, gorge on candy and have a party, whereas for others it is a time of remembrance, of visits to ancestors' graves, or prayers at this holy time. But what are the real origins and meanings of this festival that's commonly associated with darkness, witches, ghosts and ghouls? The oldest known Halloween celebration was the Celtic Samhain, a time when the souls and spirits of the dead would find it easiest to return to visit the living. Food was offered to keep the spirits happy and eventually the festival was formalised by the church as a time of remembrance in advance of All Saints Day. This fun little guide looks at the history of all things Halloween, from the earliest feasts and customs to the latest fun and games that are common around the world. We delve into the meanings of many of the symbols of Halloween, like pumpkins, black cats, apples, witches and ghosts, and examine the many different ways people celebrate around the world. There is plenty of fun stuff too: freaky facts, scary poems, classic candy, spooky songs, stunning stats, horror film suggestions and all manner of puns, jokes and sayings all relating to the creepiest day of the year. SAMPLE QUOTE:
'Halloween was confusing. All my life my parents said, "Never take candy from strangers." And then they dressed me up and said, "Go beg for it."' - Rita Rudner

Orange Hippo!

Halloween History: There are traces of what we now know as Halloween as far back as 5BCE, with the Celtic, pagan festival of Samhain. The Romans added a few of their own traditions and by the time the Catholic Church was involved, All Saints Day was established.
Trick or Treat? This chapter looks at the history and practice of knocking on doors and asking for sugar... and what you can do when someone opts for trick rather than treat!
Myths and Magic: Carved pumpkins, bats, black cats, ghosts, masks. The meanings and inspiration behind the many familiar elements of Halloween are uncovered in this revealing chapter.
How Do You Celebrate? Some dress up and rap on doors, some turn their house into a horror movie set, some turn their lights off and pretend nobody's home, some lay out treats for the spirits, but everybody knows it's Halloween. A light-hearted look at what the world gets up to on 31 October.
Halloween Wit & Wisdom: A selection of quotes, jokes, lists (Halloween movies, songs costumes etc.) and more, from the great and the good all over.
Happy Halloween! Funny sayings, traditions and interesting facts to share with your friends, family and neighbours.