What on Earth is Jolabokaflod…

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What on Earth is Jolabokaflod…

Blame the Icelandersfor this one. Upon hearing about this holiday tradition, as well as being anauthor, I was excited to write this article. Jolabokaflod literally translatesinto ‘Christmas Book Flood’. Sign me up for that deluge! It’s the Icelandictradition celebrated on Christmas Eve to give and receive new books as gifts. There’salso the gifting of chocolate in this celebration, and let’s face it—whodoesn’t want to receive books and chocolates for Christmas? *Holds hand uphigh, waving frantically* So, how did this unique tradition begin? In truth,the true origin of Jolabokaflod is unknown, but there are a few theories floatingaround in cyber space.

Theory One: It’s believed that this tradition started in the 1930s with abook club called The Reykjavik Library Foundation. SinceIcelanders must deal with long dark winters, the Foundation wanted to encouragetheir people to read more during this time. Hence, Jolabokaflod was establishedas an annual event to coincide with Christmas Eve, so people could exchange newbooks to make their winters more bearable.

Theory Two: Jolabokaflod a.k.a. Christmas Book Flood began as a way topromote literacy in Iceland. There was a study done from the 1800s that foundonly 50% of Icelanders could read. That’s a big chunk out of a relatively smallpopulation! So, again to encourage people to learn how to read, the traditionwas initiated. Hey, what a better place to bundle up in a cozy blanket by thefire with a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine, and read a book?

TheoryThree: During World War 2, paper was one of the few items in Iceland notrationed. This allowed for the continued publishing of books and printing ofnewspapers. As a result, Icelanders habitually gave books as gifts for theholiday season.

In addition to these theories, Iceland has a long history of beingwell-read. Apparently, this started in 1786, when their first library wasestablished. Since there were no schools, the general population had very fewopportunities for education. A library opened the door for Icelanders to becomeself-taught, and this love of learning has continued on. Today, there arenumerous lending libraries, and it’s estimated that a whopping 97% of allIcelandic households have at least one book. Fun fact: Iceland is the firstcountry in the world to be recognized for having achieved ‘full literacy’. Wow.Take it from someone who used to be a tutor at her local literacy chapter,that’s a huge accomplishment!

Today, Jolabokaflod is a beloved tradition in Iceland’s culture.On Christmas Eve, families gather together to exchange new books, and spend theevening reading them. Nothing is off the table when it comes to giving books asgifts, including novels (all genres), non-fiction, cookbooks, children’s books,graphic novels, and even text books. It truly is the perfect way to celebratethe holiday season and connect with loved ones. If you’re looking to bridgethis Icelandic tradition in a small way, then why not create a Jolabokaflodgift basket for an avid reader you know? All you have to do is select variousbooks catering to the recipient’s interests, then add some cozy items such as acomfy blanket, chocolate, candles, mugs, and hot chocolate mix. Trust me, it’sthe perfect holiday gift for your book-loving buddy.

So, if you’re still searching for a special way to spend theholiday season, why not give this Jolabokaflod tradition a crack or create agift basket for the reader in your life? Even if you don’t live in Iceland, thewinters in the northern hemisphere can get awfully chilly and brutal. And ifyou happen to live in the southern hemisphere, there’s definitely a beach bookwith your name on it. Wink. Wherever you live, have a happy and safe holidayseason, readers! Cheers!

BTW - If you're looking for a last minute holiday gift, may I suggest you ride the Icelanders' tails, and purchase a book for the reader in your life? Here are some great book gift ideas and the buy links: