The Penguin Book of Carols

by Ian Bradley (Editor), Various

Unlike its more pristine relation, the hymn, the carol has an earthy and exuberant heritage derived from folk dances and pagan festivals. Carols are associated with festive occasions that often involve eating and drinking, and there have even been attempts to ban them in earlier centuries. Ian Bradley's expansive collection of carols explores the richness of the genre both chronologically and geographically, placing each carol in its historical context, from the fifteenth century to the 1990s, and covering every variety of carol, from African-American spirituals and Caribbean calypso to old favorites such as "O Come, All Ye Faithful" and "Away in a Manger". Here are enthralling anecdotes, long-lost verses, and tidings of comfort and joy for all.

Genres: Holiday, Music, Christmas

414 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2000

About the author

Ian Bradley is a Church of Scotland minister, academic, broadcaster, journalist and lecturer. He has written over 40 books. He is currently Principal of St Mary's College and Reader in Church History and Practical Theology at the University of St. Andrews.

Reviews

[Rich]

Edited by Ian Bradley, this book is a wonderful collection on the history of many of our older Christmas carols, and great resource. It has a scholarly feel to it, without being ponderous and boring. (In other words you know the writers knew their stuff, but they don't beat you over the head with it.) It's main drawback is that it really doesn't have much on newer, popular pieces. (For those, unfortunately there is Ace Collins semi-reliable book, but throw a whole shaker of salt over your shoulder when you read his, he doesn't always check his facts.) This book focuses mainly on carols. But it is a wonderful resource to answer many questions.