The Christmas Chronicles BY NIGEL SLATER

Oh, how we love Nigel. And yes, this book is all about a wintry festive season but it’s so well written and evocative, we’d be positively rapt to unwrap it any time of year. Nigel espouses his love of winter and its consequent celebrations, harking back to his childhood. While the recipes have frosty days in mind, there’s plenty here that lends itself to Christmas in either hemisphere – delicious variations on classic treats, much heartwarming fare and festive inspiration. Grinches may be swayed. Fourth Estate – $55 (hb)