‘Christmas Bowl’ a charming slice of family life

  One of the cutest Christmas books I have read this year (and I’ve read a bunch as you'll see!) is Susan May Warren’s “The Great Christmas Bowl.”
  Supermom Marianne Wallace is focused on two things this holiday season. Number one — planning the greatest family Christmas ever, and number two — cheering on her youngest son’s football team in their surprise bid for the state championship.
  But what is it they say about the best laid plans?
  Thanksgiving is a dud. Then disaster strikes when Bob, the faithful team booster who plays the role of the school team mascot, has a heart attack and cannot fulfill his duties cheering on the team as their lucky charm. And on top of all of this, Marianne’s husband has volunteered her to be head of the church’s hospitality committee and host their annual Christmas Tea.
  But Marianne rolls with the punches admirably. She agrees to take on the role of team mascot, a giant silver trout, but just until Bob can return — even if it means wearing the “stinky” costume in front of the entire town. But she meets with resistance as she tries to rethink and reorganize the traditional Christmas Tea, to the shock and dismay of the older ladies of the church. Busy beyond belief, Marianne feels her Christmas spirit fading fast, especially when one child after another calls to inform their mom they won’t be home for Christmas. Can she regain her faith in time for the holidays?
  Susan May Warren delivers a charming slice of family life with “The Great Christmas Bowl.” Short, sweet and full of sass, this story is sure to become a favorite Christmas read year after year. Plus, there is a delicious recipe for clam chowder that promises to be a big hit.