The Ornament: A Christmas Story

The story captures your interest from the beginning. It tells the struggles of a young wife trying to get into the "spirit" of the the first Christmas celebrated after the loss of a loved one and the ups and down of trying to cope with well-meaning family and friends. The underlying grief makes it difficult for Annie to find any joy in the holiday, but the "ornament" helps her to realize that she is never really alone.

I recommend this as both Christmas reading and throughout the year. I've read it more than once, and can say that it doesn't ever get old. It's a book for all ages.


Learning to forgive   June 13, 2002
Lisa J. Binkley (Holtwood, PA United States)
In the season that most exemplifies Christian love, this book explores how hard it is to forgive those we love the most.

The descriptions and setting painted a perfect picture of a Pennsylvania Christmas.

The language and situations, although dealing with adult issues, can be enjoyed by young adult readers, great-grandmothers and everyone between.

A good gift, or keep it to read yearly as one of those little traditions we all find so satisfying.


The Ornament review   August 9, 2001
R. Zartman (Lititz, PA United States)
1 out of 1 found this review helpful

Great, quick read. Attention getting from the first word to the last. Although I just wanted to read a few pages when I first picked up the book, I found myself drawn into caring about the characters and so finished it immediately. This book certainly deserves a 5 star rating.


THE ORNAMENT: Story of Hope and Healing   July 7, 2001
Susan Milnor (Columbia, PA United States)
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

THE ORNAMENT is an engaging story not only of a young widow's journey through grief, but also of the sometimes difficult but ultimately loving relationship between sisters. The emotional ups and downs ring true as the characters work their way toward a more forgiving relationship. Eventually, the main character Annie is also able to forgive life for her tragedy, reminding us that it is never too late to live more fully. Althouse Wood and Naylor's story is a welcome one of healing, perfect for the holidays or for any day when we struggle with what it means to live with loss and hope.


Excellent   April 6, 2001
4 out of 4 found this review helpful

This book is an excellent story of a young woman who must keep going in life. She must cope with pain, one that most all of us have felt. She must rely on hope and love from others, no matter what the costs are. It is a very heartfelt story, with the ability to touch anyone who has endured the loss of a loved one.