By Lisa Boss, Grand Rapids Public Library, Main Branch

What a lovely story this is, accompanied by Warren Hanson’s evocative illustrations on each page.

It’s a short, quickly read tale, told in a flexible rhyme that describes a man’s initial reluctance to go across town and visit his elderly aunt. He remembers her as vibrant and fun, and he doesn’t think he wants to see her after her stroke, going “downhill.” He’s pretty sure it would depress his happy Christmas.

He can’t escape a nagging feeling of guilt though, and so he does go, and has quite a surprise waiting for him.

I love reading my favorite Christmas poems and stories each year, and this is very high on my short list. Give yourself or a loved one a great gift by checking out A Cup of Christmas Tea.