It has been several years since the idea for this book came about. After the author, Ewa Rydåker, moved to Minnesota from Uppsala, Sweden, and became active at the American Swedish Institute, many Swedish-Americans asked her, "How do you do the Lucia celebration?" Gradually, she became aware of how meaningful a book on Swedish traditions would be for children and their parents and grandparents.

"Lucia Morning in Sweden" is a hardcover book, consisting of 36 pages with beautiful full-color illustrations. In addition to the story of the Svensson children, it includes the Lucia song, recipes for ginger snaps and saffron buns, a summary of the Lucia legend, and two patterns for the Lucia gowns. Although the book is aimed at the 5- to 10-year-old age group, many parents and grandparents may enjoy reading it to younger children.

Ewa Rydåker was born in Uppsala, Sweden. She and her husband have lived in Minnesota for 15 years. They and their daughters have celebrated Lucia Day in their home and at school in Sweden and in Minnesota. This is her first book.

Illustrator Carina Ståhlberg (www.carina-stahlberg.com), who lives in Falun, Sweden, is a well-known artist and illustrator in Sweden. Her work can be seen both in Sweden, other European countries and in the United States of America.

The Swedish Council of America supported Ewa Rydåker with a grant. Together with a wonderful teamwork of friends, Ewa has enjoyed completing this project very much.