Holiday Inn is a collection short stories by Minneapolis author Kevin Kling. Each chapter and story represents a holiday, presented chronologically through the year, with the story loosely associated with that holiday. I have heard Kevin Kling read his stories on a number of occasions and some of the stories presented are those I had heard from those readings. Kevin never disappoints. I find his stories funny, poignant and inspirational (but not in a schmaltzy way). My favorites of this collection—the MLK story about what makes family—Valentine’s Day story and what is love (hanging on for one more second, one more second), Kevin’s time in Shriner’s hospital (and the power of those that are there), bringing a friend to the Minnesota State Fair (as a Minnesotan who doesn’t love a good fair story) and his story of “coming home.” If you are looking for an uplifting read—this is the book for you. 4 ½ out of 5 stars. ( )

This is a delightful book of wonderful, down-home, folksy tales of love, laughter and family. If you like Garrison Keillor of Prairie Home Companion fame, then you will enjoy this book as well.

Kling is a commentator on NPR's "All Things Considered."

He writes so poignantly of Minnesota with a humor and love of the state and the people that you can almost feel the crystals forming on the lake and hear the sound of the fish as they are pulled up from the ice. You can smell the summer blueberry pie and taste the country ham while sitting at the table laughing with the crazy, loving and lovable relatives.

If you want to laugh out loud, this is a book to read! ( )