Growing up on a small ranch without a mother hasn't been all that easy for only-child Maddie O'Brien. Her father, scarred by war emotionally and physically is kind, but very withdrawn. Her grandfather, Otis, is funny and wise but a confirmed bachelor who is completely content to tend to their livestock and endlessly re-tell old stories. As another difficult Christmas season approaches, Maddie O'Brien is hoping for something special to bring joy into their lives. And then one snowy winter night a small band of abandoned and hungry donkeys appears at their barn door braying for food and comfort. HEE-haw. HEE-haw. HEE-haw. They are achingly cute, sweet and there is even a little one among them, but where could they have come from? And why did they find Maddie O'Brien? This is a heartwarming story about how magical donkeys transformed the lives of the entire O'Brien family in ways that Maddie could have never even dared to dream. Whether you're young or old, Maddie O'Brien's Christmas Donkeys will bring a smile to your face. There is just something about these cute, little long-eared critters that makes you want to wrap your arms around 'em and give 'em a big hug and nuzzle.  And they usually love it!  I wrote this story for the sheer fun of it and so that it can be read to my grandchildren and theirs and maybe even yours.  It's uplifting and even a little educational.  And I like happy endings so this one will not disappoint anyone.  Adults seem to enjoy it as much as kids and I put lots of Hee-haws!  I like to imagine mothers and fathers doing the Hee-haws and watching their children burst into delightful laughter. So enjoy! Award-winning author Gary McCarthy has sold over three million novels and has a degree in Animal Science. He and his wife Jane have a few acres up near the Grand Canyon, shared with many happy animals.