This book presents some of the beliefs associated with the shortest day of the year, explains the scientific basis of the solstice, and shows how ancient customs have influenced the way we celebrate holidays.

In easy-to-read text, describes what the first day of school might be like for a child in Kenya, Kazakhstan, Canada, Australia, Japan, China, Peru, Germany, India, Russia, and the United States.

Travel back in time to meet eleven children, each from the turn of a different century. Each century of the second millennium is brought vividly to life by a child of the period. Intriguing facts complement their stories, and richly detailed illustrations serve up a visual feast that holds a few surprises for the careful observer.