A Redbird Christmas & The All-Girl Filling Stations Last Reunion by Fannie Flagg

Well never let me say that I won't read a book a second time--A Redbird Christmas--was even better the second time around.  A gentle story about a man whose name is Oswald.  He has just been given some terrible news by his doctor and it is the doctors suggestion that he get out of town for a while.  So he moseys on down to a small town in Alabama for some rest.  While there he makes friends with the locals, in particular, a store clerk named Roy.  Roy discovers an injured baby bird one day and wraps it up, fully expecting it will be dead by morning.  Much to Roy's chagrin, the bird lives and becomes Roy's mascot.

Jack, is a redbird.  Those of us up north call it a Cardinal.  Jack is the life of the small store that Roy owns and he makes friends with Oswald and a small girl named Patsy, among others.

A miracle occurs on the day after Christmas that affects everyone in the town, especially Patsy.  It is the sort of miracle that you have to recognize to see.  I believe there are miracles happening every day.  We just have to look for them and see them for what they are.

This is a short book of 207 pages and there are some great recipes in the back.  Add this gentle story to your Christmas books to read list.

Ladybookbug!

The All-Girl Filling Stations Last Reunion is also by Fannie Flagg.  If you are of a certain age, you'll remember her from her appearances on Candid Camera.  If you're not--you might know of her through another book she wrote that was made into a movie called Fried Green Tomatoes.   This story takes place during WWII and about 2005.

Sookie is a southern gal who has just finished marrying her daughters.  She is taking a breather from all the hustle and bustle that comes along with having a wedding.   One day she receives a certified letter which is addressed to her mother care of Sookie.  What is revealed in the letter changes Sookie's life forever.

This is a well-written tale about the strength of women.  It's the kind of story you might have heard from your mother at the kitchen table over a cup of tea.  While not exactly fast-paced, it will keep your interest until the very end.

Two good titles from a seasoned author.

Ladybookbug!