A COWPOKE'S CHRISTMAS

A family-oriented celebration of hard work, capped with a special meal.

Early on Christmas Day, Sam and Grandpa walk to the barn through a snowy yard. Before they can celebrate, they’ve got chores to do: milking the cow, bathing their big fluffy dog, and feeding the mare, chicks, pigs, calves, sheep, and goats. And, of course, they must check on the mare one more time. When Mama asks for help gathering eggs, Sam, petting a kitten and watching the cat lap up milk, readily agrees. Mama, Grandma, and Sam have plenty to do inside: chopping and peeling potatoes, sweeping up, and setting the table. Once all five are gathered around their laden table, Daddy says grace. Later that night, everyone piles into a horse-drawn wagon for a brief ride that ends at the barn, where a nativity scene awaits: The mare has birthed a foal. Brief rhyming couplets carry readers smoothly through a very busy day. Cartoon-style art in subdued colors depicts a soft, evenly lit, and orderly farm. Despite the snow, clothing choices such as wide-brimmed hats suggest a Southwest setting. Notably, Sam’s family has a Christmas tree, but no gifts are seen or mentioned; warm family connection and Sam’s willing participation are what truly matter on this day. This tale offers a positive, Santa-free take on the holiday that might be different from many readers’ expectations, potentially expanding horizons. Characters are tan-skinned and dark-haired.

A refreshingly uncommercial Yuletide tale.