An Otis Christmas

Book title: An Otis Christmas
Author and Artist: Loren Long
Age group: Juvenile
Theme: Christmas
Publication date: 2013
Philomel Books
Cost: $17.99
Reviewed by Allen Klingelhoets

I reviewed several other Otis the Tractor books at Jazma few years ago. I noticed "An Otis Christmas" on for sale book shelf at my local library. I am sure can find to read in other libraries. I really enjoyed how many of characters from other Otis books made reappearance in Christmas story. The story had magical feeling of love and family. Also, way Otis went through tremendous effort to get doctor during snow storm. What Otis did to try to save horse which was having trouble birthing foul was amazing. I was really impressed by Otis Christmas story.

Loren Long did an excellent job with art for "An Otis Christmas". I felt very lucky to buy book on library sale of discarded books. The book found very good home with me.

Here is what the front inside cover says about "An Otis Christmas".

A decorated tree, special treats, and, most important, good friends. Christmas has always been a special time of the year for Otis the tractor and the animals on the farm. But this year, there's even more to celebrate. One of the horses is expecting a foal!

Yet on Christmas Eve, Otis awakens to troubled voices. Something is wrong with the mare! They need Doc Baker to help, but a heavy snowfall has made the roads impassable. Quick as a flash, Otis speeds through the woods to wake Doc and hope for a Christmas miracle.

In An Otis Christmas, Loren Long celebrates the importance of family, the values of bravery, and the true spirit of Christmas.


Allen Klingelhoets