This is a collection of original stories, essays and poems by one of East Anglia's most popular writers. All the stories are based on legends or customs associated with some aspect of fenland life, past and present - skating, farming, superstitions, deserted villages, haunted houses, schools' nativity plays and Christmas at an early Benedictine monastery. Fact is mixed with fiction to present a colourful spectrum of local history against a universal celebration of the season itself. Described by the author in his introduction as a journey of the imagination this volume offers an unusual miscellany of striking evocations on a familiar theme. For that reason alone it should appeal beyond the geographical boundaries in which each piece is set and could provide ideal readings for many winter occasions - in village halls, schools, churches and family gatherings where people still want to recapture the true spirit of Christmas.