Croia and Ronan, 12-year-old twins, bound by the brother and sister thread of inseparable love experience something they did not foresee. Held within the mystic embrace of October 31st, together with their mother’s new husband and their new 16-year-old sister, they learn that Halloween is so much more than costumes, trick-or-treating, and pumpkin carving.

As dusk settles, the family’s cherished Irish grandmother introduces the children to the ancient traditions of Samhain, where the veil between worlds is thinnest, and the living honor the dead. They are all drawn into the enchanting realm of stories, age-old customs, and the profound connections that span both life and death.

Amidst the silver shadows of the night, the family gathers to honor the memories of lost loved ones, setting places for them at the long dinner table. From heartfelt moments and playful divination games shared beneath the candles’ soft glow, to a traditional Celtic meal and a secret discovery, the heartbeats of the past echo in the present.

Come, gather around the golden fire, become immersed in time-honored traditions, join the timeless, sacred song of family, and celebrate Samhain.

The long-awaited Winter Break has finally arrived, but Ronan and Croia, 12-year-old twins, find themselves struggling instead of cheering. There is a new kid at school whose cruelty has left deep wounds.

Ronan’s protective instinct towards Croia clashes with his own confusion about what it means to stand up and defend, to fight, or to walk away. On the longest, darkest night of the year, Croia and Ronan’s beloved Irish grandmother, with her gentle insight and patient heart, helps Ronan through the dark storm of his emotions and prepares a special evening for all.

Surrounded by his family—Croia and their new sister, their mother and her new husband—Ronan’s strength and inner peace is tested when an unanticipated guest arrives. Throughout the evening Grandmother continues to help and guide. She weaves stories with strands of folklore and threads of old beliefs, spinning them together, bringing the ancient to the present. While immersed in the traditions of the Celtic holiday of Yule, Ronan learns what it is to see past the darkness.

Come feel the warmth of the hearth and the power of wisdom. Join the journey of the ages through the cold of winter, beyond the shadows of darkness to what comes after and celebrate Yule.

Bonus Materials: Celebrating Yule includes recipes for the traditional Celtic Yule meal.