From the first reference to a valentine card in 1625, to modern times, this book celebrates sentimental charm, wit, and romance over the decades in America's valentines.

Page after page of colorful valentines ranging from elaborately decorated Victorian pull-downs to simple ones exchanged by schoolchildren in the 60s and 70s are displayed here in over 560 spectacular color photographs.

European origins as well as American traditions, celebration and card sending customs, card designs and themes, artists and manufacturers from Howland, Whitney, Prang, to Gibson, Hallmark, and American Greetings are included. Anyone who has ever sent or received a valentine will enjoy this fascinating book.[AuthorName]By Robert Brenner[/AuthorName][AuthorBio]Bob Brenner, of Princeton, Wisconsin, is a leading authority on the traditions of Christmas and other holidays. He lectures and curates major holiday exhibits for the Smithsonian and other museums.[/AuthorBio][NumIllustration]565 color photos[/NumIllustration][CoAuthor][/CoAuthor][SubTitle]A Century of Valentine Cards[/SubTitle][ColorPattern]565 color photos[/ColorPattern]