Are you in search for a new and unique holiday tradition? If so, here’s one that may suit your fancy.

It’s called Jolabokaflod—which literally means “Christmas Book Flood” in English.

The tradition originated during WWII when paper and books were not rationed like other items. Icelanders gave one another books for Christmas to read and enjoy in lieu of items they couldn’t readily acquire. Thus, a new custom was born: Folks spending Christmas Eve tucked up with a good book and a warm beverage—usually hot chocolate.

Although we don’t supply the hot chocolate, we do have some very lovely mugs for you to use to start your own version of Jolabokaflod. And of course, we’ve got a great selection of books in our on-hand stock or through our Bookshop.com storefront to tickle your reading fancy!