Many of the most enchanting ingredients of an old-fashioned American Christmas are of German origin, traditions such as St. Nicholas (Santa Claus), the Christmas tree (Tannenbaum), kugels (blown glass ornaments), woodcarvings (nativity figures, nutcrackers), "The Messiah" by George Frederick Handel, and the Christmas carol "Silent Night," composed on Christmas Eve in 1818 by Franz Gruber. These and other traditions of German origin, embraced worldwide, are described in this book. Also included are historical facts and folklore. German literature, cinema, language art, and heritage are all presented. Karin Gottier’s own story of childhood in Germany during World War II and adulthood in America is heart warming. She says: "In November and early December, when the sun sets and the sky turns red, children say that Christkindl is heating his bake oven to make Christmas cookies." The smells of cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, cloves, anise, and nuts promise the "tastes of Christmas" (gingerbread men and houses, the beautiful designs of springerle cookies). The recipes included in the book represent a joyous and bountiful observance of the season. German-American Life: Recipes and Traditions features German Americans in Wisconsin, Texas, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Connecticut, New York, Missouri, the Dakotas, Minnesota, Iowa, and all over the United States.