The artist/author's childhood memories of Russian Orthodox Christmas celebrations yield homey details of foods, decorations, activities and specific family members, showing how annual observances sustain cultural and personal ties. Mixed media illustrations capture the warmth of a particular tradition and of one extended family. (Ages 5-9)

A holiday favorite from Patricia Polacco is now available again, to her fans' delight. Based on Polacco's childhood memories, this is the story of her Great-uncle Vladimir, known as Vova, and his colorful and inventive celebrations of the Russian Orthodox holiday of Epiphany. Polacco's art warmly depicts the vibrant costumes and decorations from her family's homeland, and the text conveys the magical feeling of a child's wonder and joy during the holidays.
"Uncle Vova's Tree" is a perfect companion to Polacco's new holiday story, "Christmas Tapestry," or a stand-alone classic that belongs on every