The Winter Solstice by Ellen Jackson illustrated by Jan Davey Ellis*

What a great combination!  This book shares what various people groups around the world believed when the amount of daylight diminished and the rituals they followed to lure back the sun.  It also explains (and gives an science activity) the science behind the lessening daylight.  A Native American story which explains why the evergreens remain green all winter is also included. 
*Highly recommend.
-Borrowed from the library.