From Celtic druids and Viking Yule to the outright banning of Christmas for 400 years, The Broons, first footing and the Loony Dook, this is a joyous miscellany that showcases the creative, elaborate and sometimes downright bizarre aspects of Scottish Christmas and New Year, from the ancient past to the more recent present. It includes different local traditions, from those practised in the Borders all the way to the islands of Orkney and Shetland, as well as the nationwide pastimes enjoyed by everyone. The book is packed with tradition, lore and legend, as well as poems, stories, carols, recipes, history, jokes and fun facts Illustrated throughout with line drawings and black and white photographs. Best enjoyed in front of an open fire with a glass of whisky and a black bun.

Anna Marshall is a freelance publicist based near Edinburgh. She is the author of the 44 Scotland Street Cookbook, inspired by Alexander McCall Smith's bestselling series.