This was not what I expected. I expected more descriptions of a white Christmas in South Dakota. While there were mentions of this, most of the story was about mentioning what books he was gifted for Christmas. Having grown up in a tropical island, I knew going in that this wasn’t a story I would identify with but that was precisely why I bought it. I wanted to be told about something I am not familiar with. I wanted him to take me to that place and learn about the customs. This was not badly written at all. I didn’t dislike it. I guess it just didn’t satisfy my expectations. Maybe this should get 2.5 stars from me... In "Dakota Christmas," Bottum shares memories of his childhood on the cold South Dakota plains, of the food and gifts, of books and toys, of family and friends, of the joy and sometimes tears of children during the holidays. He brings those memories to life with humor and sharp details. He makes me hope that our holidays are special ones that stay with Amber through the years.Bottum also reminds us that while ti's easy to get caught up in the glitz and glitter, or plastic and jello, of the season, the focus still need to be on that babe in the manger.
What do You think about Dakota Christmas (2011)?
I lived in ND for a great deal of my childhood and could relate to so much in the story.
—reelz
I enjoyed this short essay. It made me remember past Christmas' from my childhood.
—Bre
