Jolabokaflod, a Christmas Eve Miracle!

PHOTO: MILAN_JOVIC | GETTY IMAGES

An Icelandic tradition has come Stateside. The rationing of goods always plays a significant role during war times. During World War II, paper and the printing of books were some of those goods. ​However, in 1944, when Iceland gains its independence from Denmark, the publication of books resumed. The luxury of reading came back in full force and resulted in the Icelandic Christmas Eve tradition, Jolabokaflod.


Jolabokaflod roughly translates to 'the Christmas book flood.' Every year since 1944, Icelandic families would exchange books on Christmas Eve and spend the rest of the evening reading and eating chocolate. Pretty amazing, right?


I know you are probably wondering why you're getting a history lesson. Well, here's why! Within one of the Book Clubs I'm in on Facebook someone posted about Jolabokaflod. I explained to the group that no one in my family reads *insert gasp here*, and I had no to celebrate this tradition with.


Much to my surprise, another bookish friend responded to my comment saying she too had no one to celebrate with, and it was within that moment that we decided to celebrate together. At the beginning of December, we exchanged addresses and sent each other a book/gift to be opened on Christmas Eve.


Well, book lovers, it's Christmas Eve, and I got one amazing gift! I hope y'all are having a safe and relaxing holiday, and if you are reading anything good this evening, drop a comment below… I need to build up my TBR for 2020!