"Around the World with St. Nicholas and Friends" is an
enchanting picture book about the origins and modern day
observations of Nicholas Lipinsky, whom we now call St. Nicholas.
Known in his lifetime as "The Wonder Worker", due to his
never-ending generosity toward the poor, his legend has evolved
into the St. Nicholas children know and love today.
This is the first book in a new twelve book series about holiday gift givers. In this first volume, Dr. Staback delves into a brief history of Nicholas Lipinsky, and how he is celebrated throughout the world! He brings his friends and helpers along to ensure that good children receive a special gift on St. Nicholas Day. If children have been bad, they may have a different surprise in store when they meet Black Pete, also known as Krampus or Knecht Ruprecht, depending on the region. Engagingly illustrated by artist, Marlin Montgomery, "Around the World with St. Nicholas and Friends" is perfect for readers ages 4 to 9 who are curious about St. Nicholas. This heart-warming book shows how countries celebrate St. Nicholas Day across the world. With beautiful illustrations and a comforting story, “Around the World with St. Nicholas and Friends” is a great family read for the holiday season!
Available in hardcover, paperback and ebook formats!
On December fifth
Night he’ll ride,
So put your polished
Shoes outside.
And don’t forget
An empty plate,
For special treats
On this fun date!
Oh, what a happy
Time it is
When all your friends
You get to quiz,
About the gifts
That St. Nick brought
For every precious,
Little tot!
Staback [fka and formerly written as Lomax] (The Bess M. Gilbert Art Collection, 2012) presents a rhyming, intriguing look at Christmas traditions and legends from around the world in this first of a 12-book series. Resplendent paintings with a vintage feel combine with poetry in this exploration of the December holiday...an enlightening read for kids of all ages and from all cultures.
~Kirkus Reviews
“Leanne E. Staback, Ph.D.’s [fka and formerly written as L. E. Lomax] new entry in her series of children’s storybooks arrives to delight young readers...Staback [Lomax] focuses on another cultural event that occurs during the Christmas season: St. Nicholas Day...(and) shows children his connection to Christmas...Throughout the book, colorful illustrated paintings by Lomax [now by Montgomery] portray different cultures to guide readers through the story...sure to entertain young readers, but Staback [Lomax] points out that the book also teaches an important lesson.
~Abbott Press
As a Cultural Anthropologist I was very intrigued by the multicultural theme of the book, and my children and I have not only enjoyed the holiday spirit of the book, but we have all learned something new about cultures around the world. I would suggest any child or adult pick up a version of “Around the World with St. Nicholas & Friends” [formerly published as “A Saint Called Nicholas”] if you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit a bit early, want to learn something new about the numerous ways other cultures celebrate St. Nick, and have a new, special way to share count-downing the days ‘til Christmas together!
~Brenda Phillips
A mixture of rhyme and text with some simplified information about Nicholas customs around the world...
~St. Nicholas Center