Christmas Presence ed. by Celia Miles and Nancy Dillingham

[Rob Neufeld]

Christmas Presence from 45 Western North Carolina women writers edited by Celia H. Miles and Nancy Dillingham (Catawba Publishing Company trade paperback, Oct. 2008, 221 pages, $18).

Despite taking up only a few days of the year, memories of Christmas have equal weight with summer vacation and the whole rest of the year in mountain people's minds. Christmas Presence portrays what Nancy Dillingham recalls as the simplicity of gifts and the sturdiness and generosity of spirit in the local tradition. The book also serves as an introduction to women writers, experienced and novice, in the area. Most of the pieces, all of which are short, adopt a memoir-writing voice; and reveal the degree to which each author is able to go beyond the goldenness of a moment to fill in the shadows, depth, and detail. Sherry Austin's piece stands out. She creates a character, an older woman named Trixie, who interacts with her TV while she prepares Christmas dinner and comments on various things. MariJo Moore writes classically surprising and concise haiku-like poems about birds and trees glimpsed on Christmas Night. Susan Snowden's story delights so much in character and details--a girl's horror at a haircut imposed on her--that her glow is vividly unsentimental. A few of the pieces effectively recall the Great Depression, the archetypal American time of Christmas spirit. There's a powerful theme here for coming times--how to reclaim good news from reduced circumstances; and it is one that might deserve a book of its own.

[Sherry Austin]

I'm sure we all appreciate Rob's review!

[nancy dillingham]

Yes, we do! Rob is always so supportive of writers. We thank him so very much. Nancy

[MariJo Moore]

I love this collection and am honored to be a part of it, along with some exceptionally wonderful writers!
I know the struggle and love that go into editing anthologies, and Nancy and Celia have done a fantastic job!

MariJo Moore

[Sherry Austin]

I feel the same, MariJo.

[nancy dillingham]

Thanks so much, MariJo! Celia and I loved working on the anthology--and getting acquainted with so many marvelous women writers. We loved your poem--with thanks again for a great additon to the work! Nancy

[Sherry Austin]

It's been a pleasure to get to know you through this, Nancy!

[nancy dillingham]

And you too, Sherry! Hope to see you again soon!