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Holiday Books for Everyone on Your List

(ARA) — Books are always a welcome gift, especially when you take the time to tailor the volume to the recipient. If you’re looking for a unique selection of books for the hard-to-buy-for friend or relative on your list, your search is over.

Bolchazy-Carducci Publishers offers an eclectic selection of books, many in Latin. You’re probably thinking, “But I don’t know anyone who speaks Latin.” Believe it or not, that doesn’t matter. These are not your typical Latin books, and you don’t have to speak or read Latin to appreciate them (but you just might learn some along the way).

There’s sure to be something for everyone on your list — and you’re sure to be asked, “Where in the world did you find that?” Although many of the titles are typically thought of as children’s books, these editions appeal to the young and the young at heart.

While the company offers many books you may not have seen before, perhaps the most popular items in their collection are familiar favorites that have been translated into Latin. The Giving Tree, Shel Silverstein’s parable of a lifelong relationship between a boy and the tree who happily responds to his every need, is retold in Latin in Arbor alma. This Latin-language edition, featuring Silverstein’s original artwork, is a delightful way to revisit a treasured tale.

For the Dr. Seuss fan on your list, consider Quomodo Invidiosulus nomine Grinchus Christi natalem Abrogaverit (“How the Grinch Stole Christmas”) or Cattus Petasatus (“The Cat in the Hat”). The Latin translation of the Grinch, one of Dr. Seuss’ most beloved books, was first published in 1998 and has become a cult hit. “People really enjoy seeing this book in Latin,” says editor Marie Bolchazy. The Latin translation recreates the enchanting poetry of a Christmas classic. “The Cat in the Hat also captures people’s fancy, perhaps because it was the first book for so many children,” says Bolchazy. Both translations feature the original artwork.

Other children’s titles include the Latin version of Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus, and two “I Am Learning Latin” books: Quid Edam? (“What Will I Eat?”) and Quot Animalia? (“How Many Animals?”). These last two are perfect for children ages 4–8.

If you’re looking for a gift for the whole family, Slovak Tales for Young and Old is the perfect choice. This book showcases Slovak folk tales by Pavol Dobsinsky. These stories are representative of the Slovak oral tradition, and fall into three categories: traditional fairy tales with magic spells, wicked stepmothers, multi-headed dragons, and fantastic journeys; animal tales in which barnyard or forest creatures act with human traits; and stories in which an ordinary individual is able to outwit a potential enemy and triumph in the end. The book is bilingual, with English translations in front and the original Slovak in the back. Fourteen color and sixty black-and-white illustrations by Slovak artist Martin Benka complement the stories.

And now for something completely different: Shock-Headed Peter, a Latin/English/German tri-lingual edition of Der Struwwelpeter, the best-known German children’s book by Dr. Heinrich Hoffmann. Also known as Slovenly Peter in English-speaking countries, these cautionary tales satisfy the human urge to see misbehaving characters get their just deserts. Every recalcitrant child and cruel adult in these stories gets what’s coming to them. The book includes an afterword by Walter Sauer on the history of the work and its Latin translation, as well as a select Latin-English glossary. Sample stories include Cruel Frederick (dog abuser “bites” the dust), Harriet and the Matches (cat duo predicts pyromaniac girl’s demise), and Little Suck-a-Thumb (tailor with scissors — enough said).

These books and more are featured on the “holiday specials” section of the Bolchazy-Carducci website, www.bolchazy.com. Best of all, every book in the holiday section is available for 50% off the regular price through the holidays. So delight someone on your shopping list with one of these unusual selections.

Courtesy of ARA Content

EDITOR’S NOTE: To receive review copies of any of the books mentioned in this article, e-mail your request to info@bolchazy.com.