Christmas Turtles
by Sara Ann Denson; illustrated by TARA MCMILLEN
Published by Purple Sky Publishing
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Reviewed By Michele E. Davis
This is Denson's story of how her grandma planted a pecan tree commemorating Denson's birth and the birth of all her siblings. It is about how they then gathered the sprouting tree's fruit: pecans to make chocolate-covered turtles for Christmas.
As Denson's grandmother aged, she kept up this tradition even though she was plagued by osteoporosis, arthritis and diabetes. She couldn't enjoy the fruits of her efforts but the tradition is a cherished memory and shows children how anything that is a ritual during any time of year can become a tradition. It doesn't need to be all about Christmas gifts and Santa, but about the love and dedication of those near and dearest to us.
Denson and all her younger family members used to hide the chocolate pecan delights from the adults, in typical child fashion, wanting to keep the coveted booty for themselves. Grandma says, "I can't eat them," she said. "I just make them to see the glow in your eyes."
Food is such an essential part of how a lot of us were raised. We were shown love through what our grandparents, parents and other family members cooked for us and fed us as children. Denson captures the innocence and unconditional love of a child for her grandma's kindness.
It is a poignant children's hard cover book with gorgeous illustrations by Tara McMillen--a great glossy book to give as a gift all year round.
Armchair Interviews says: A lengthy book, not a first reader, but a good one for an adult to read to children and the recipe for Christmas Turtles is included for the book owner to continue this precious tradition.
Author's Web site: http://www.saraanndenson.com