Given to Matthew Hayes - 05/11/2023

I really enjoyed this collection of stories from Governor Huckabee's life that remind us that sometimes simple is better. They also show us the depth of his faith in Jesus Christ. They challenge us to remember the true meaning of Christmas. One of my favorite portions of the book was the introduction. I would have enjoyed hearing him preach that message! Throughout the book, the Governor made reference to many members of his family. As a genealogist, I wanted to go hunting for his ancestors as most of his information on the distant generations appears to have been passed down through oral tradition rather than having been properly documented. I still loved the stories of his family and of himself. One of the most touching stories involved the last days of a family member who died to cancer. Having lost my mother to cancer in the last year, I found myself in tears in that section. While I doubt liberal Democrats would enjoy the book, I do think there are many other classes of persons to whom this book would appeal. The stories are touching. It's a great Christmas read! ( )

Stories that remind us that a simple Christmas is the best Christmas. ( )

Former presidential candidate, former Arkansas governor, pastor and talk-show host Mike Huckabee shares experiences from his life that took place around Christmas that he says taught him the true meaning of Christmas. The stories are all biographical and span his life time. He seems to leave nothing out be it sad or inspirational. But all these short biographies are meant too emphasize God, family, love, and hope instead of the commercialism of shopping and presents. Something it seems popular culture has forgotten. This book, though not what I expected, gives us insight into the man and his life. ( )