When I think of Christmas, I don't usually think of pets, probably because I don't have one - it seems that my holiday highlights never include any other warm blodded creatures. But in this story, a canine is at the center. He's an unlikely and unwelcome barking guest who changes what a lonely grandmother believes Christmas should look like. With the help of interesting characters, like a crabby misunderstood neighbor, and a runaway granddaughter, Betty Kowalski, opens her eyes to the meaning of the holidays. Though cute, cuddly, and easy to read, this story has several undeveloped characters whose actions seem rather far fetched. Though I wouldn't call this a 'must-read', it's a warm tale and would easily pass a snowy afternoon.