The more than 1,250 holiday keepsakes brought together in 253 lavish color pictures here have come from the collections of people who could not resist saving their favorites. These ornaments have been cherished for years and now are presented for all to enjoy. The beautiful color photographs all were taken new specifically for this book; most of the items never before have been seen in print. Each section of this book is devoted to a different holiday with full explanations of the toys and ornaments that are shown. The historical backgrounds of each of the holidays are very informative, explaining how some of them evolved from ancient celebrations and religious events. Through the book, the reader begins with New Year's Day and progresses chronologically to Valentine's Day, Washington's Birthday, St. Patrick's Day, Easter, Independence Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas.