Trick or Treat: A History of Halloween

The popularity of Halloween has spread around the globe to places as diverse as Russia, China, and Japan, but its association with death and the supernatural and its inevitable commercialization has made it one of our most misunderstood holidays. How did it become what it is today?

In Trick or Treat, Halloween aficionado Lisa Morton provides a thorough history of this spooky day. She begins by looking at how holidays like the Celtic Samhain, a Gaelic harvest festival, have blended with the British Guy Fawkes Day and the Catholic All Souls’ Day to produce the modern Halloween, and she explains how the holiday was reborn in America, where costumes and trick-or-treat rituals have become new customs.

Considering the holiday in the context of its worldwide popularity for the first time, this book will be a treat for any Halloween lover.

"Informative and entertaining."

— Fortean Times

Review by 1000 Libraries

Lisa Morton’s Trick or Treat: A History of Halloween is an insightful deep dive into the origins and evolution of Halloween, tracing its journey from ancient European traditions to its modern-day celebration around the world. Morton’s engaging writing style draws readers in, making the book as enjoyable as it is informative. With well-researched historical accounts, readers discover how Halloween has grown from its Celtic roots to a global holiday, shaped by different cultures over time. The book is enhanced with vivid illustrations that further bring the history of this beloved holiday to life.

Morton’s research challenges common misconceptions about Halloween, revealing surprising facts about its more recent traditions and forgotten customs. From the earliest practices in the British Isles to its transformation in North America, Trick or Treat offers a fresh perspective on the holiday. Many readers were particularly struck by how much of what we consider essential Halloween traditions, such as trick-or-treating, are relatively new. Morton presents the history in a way that feels relevant and reflective, making it a captivating read for anyone interested in the cultural significance of the holiday.

Whether you’re a Halloween enthusiast or simply curious about its history, this book provides a comprehensive and entertaining overview of the holiday’s transformation. Readers praised Morton’s ability to keep the narrative engaging while offering a detailed look into Halloween’s past. Trick or Treat is a must-read for anyone who loves Halloween or enjoys learning about the origins of cultural traditions.

“

"Numerous black and white illustrations, references, bibliography, and an index supplement Morton's engaging and solidly researched text. Trick or Treat documents lots of historical tricks and is a wonderful treat for anyone looking beyond the commercial surface of Halloween."

Colin Steele, Canberra Times

“

“If you want to know anything at all about the subject, you ought to find it in Trick or Treat. . . . Morton’s interesting account of Halloween is at its best when it comes up to date and there are many entertaining illustrations.”

Susan Hill, Times

“

“With Trick or Treat Lisa Morton gives us a charming, creepy, insightful and thoroughly fascinating history of Halloween. It’s a delicious blend of cultural history and pop-culture savvy that is a true delight to read!”

Jonathan Maberry, Author of "Flesh and Bone" and "Assassin’s Code"

Explore More

/

/

/

Trick or Treat: A History of Halloween