One of the most poignant parts of the Christmas season is the sharing of stories and traditions between the generations. In The Hand-Carved Crèche and Other Christmas Memories, acclaimed novelist and nature essayist James Kilgo offers his memories of four Christmas promises kept, including his earliest World War II-era recollections. Enhanced with woodblock print illustrations by artist Susan Nees, Kilgo's moving account reflects upon family traditions, the innocence of childhood and its loss, the unspoken love and support within a family, and above all the meaning of the nativity.