A beautifully illustrated, full-color picture storybook, set in Medieval times, this story captures the essence of the culture and time that gave birth to one of our most beloved holiday traditions. The story is fictional, but the lessons about hope, kindness, and the joy they bring, resonate with people of all times.

In a land filled with troubles and bad-tempered kings, Hans and his father are commanded to make special gingerbread cookies for the king's Christmas feast. But the fancy cookie molds usually used for making special cookies have been sold. How can they please the king? Using his creativity, Hans devises a way to turn plain cookies into delightful treats that please the king and bring joy to the sad town. In the process, he starts a tradition that continues to this day.

While we don't actually know who built the first gingerbread house, we do know about when and where and under what conditions the tradition arose. So, while it might not have happened this way, it could have.

Recipes and patterns to make your own gingerbread houses are included.