A Christmas Home: A Novel

Image of A Christmas Home: A Novel
Author(s): 
Release Date: 
October 30, 2012
Publisher/Imprint: 
Crown
Pages: 
240
Reviewed by: 

“Well written and uplifting . . .”

Todd McCray loves his job working at the animal shelter in Crossing Trails, Kansas. A kind and gentle young man, Todd was born disabled, but his parents never treated him any differently from their other children.

Though Todd realizes his limitations, his first love is animals, and his dedication shows in his work. To offer him independence, he lives in a small cabin on his parent’s property and shares with them his adoration for the family pooch, Christmas who goes back and forth between them.

Unfortunately, Crossing Trails, like many other little towns is hit with an economic downfall, and businesses as well as town and county offices are hurting. When Todd learns the shelter will be closing due to cutbacks, his main worry is the fate of the remaining animals.

Todd enlists the aid of a television station in the area to advertise the plight of the shelter. Shortly before Christmas, with over 50 dogs and cats needing homes, they hold an adoption at one of the largest malls, two hours away from Crossing Trails. Todd is aware that if all the animals don’t get adopted, they will more than likely be euthanized, a fact that bothers him to no end.

Another major concern for Todd is what he can do for employment when the shelter closes. This has basically been his only job, and with the economy as such, along with his lack of skills, this could be a problem. He enjoys working and dreads the thought of moving back in and being dependent on his folks.

A Christmas Home is a heartwarming read and not just for the holidays. It shows the deep connection and love between humans and animals, and how anyone, no matter their limitations, can find their passion. Well written and uplifting, this story is sure to please animal lovers.