The Ansterburg family lives in a barn.
"Someday Papa would build them a real house. But for now living in the barn with the soft animal sounds and sweet smell of hay was just right."
The nearby apple tree is not only a source of food for the family, it also provides for the children a place to play and to dream.
When a ferocious blizzard comes to the area shortly before Christmas, the family must work together. First, to prepare for the storm, and then to keep warm during the three-day ordeal.
The ice storm destroys the beloved apple tree and the Ansterburg children are devastated. They have lost their favorite place to play and dream.
But father has a Christmas surprise.
Apple Tree Christmas is a sweet story of simpler times. It is a story of overcoming hardship and disappointment, of family closeness, and of selfless gift-giving.
First published in 1984, Apple Tree Christmas returned in 2005 as is published by Sleeping Bear Press.
The story is a beautiful example of family love and will become a cherished holiday tradition.