Do you know how to tell a witch when you meet one? Do you know how to make a leprechaun keep his promise? Do you know how to find out the name of your true love?

The answers, and many other fascinating charms, tests and tricks are to be found in Lillie Patterson's Halloween. Halloween is one of our oldest and most colorful holidays. Customs from the Romans' gay Pomona Day, the Celts' mysterious Sanheim, and the Christians' All Saint's and All Souls' Days have combined to make a magical fall festival.

In the past bonfires were lit to keep evil spirits away. Today grinning jack-o'-lanterns welcome the ghosts and witches. Halloween has become a happy children's holiday, more famous in America than anywhere else. Grateful for the customs and fun that came from many lands, American children are now giving to the children of the world in return, through their UNICEF "Trick or Treat" collections.

A gifted storyteller and poet, Lillie Patterson has woven many old tales, chants and verses through her book. This is a Halloween to enjoy in many ways.

From the dust jacket