Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart

 Grace Thornton is new to the small town of Pine Valley. Although a few unruly boys make every day a challenge, she is determined to lead her students in the school’s first Christmas pageant. The younger girls and boys are excited, even as one boy seems determined to sabotage Grace’s efforts. Maybe she should quit.

Ben Hansen, a widower, can’t ignore his daughter’s praises of her pretty new teacher. He decides to lend a hand among his townspeople, who are so resistant to change.

I enjoyed reading this short story, which I finished in about an hour. Ben’s sweet daughter tugged at my heart, as did Grace’s teaching difficulties.

The nostalgic and historic setting added to the charm of this holiday story. I will look for more stories by this author.