Author. She was a broke graduate student in 1984 when she wrote the well loved children's classic, "The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree." Drawing from her own life in the 1940 western North Carolina Mountains during Wold War II. The main character was named "Ruthie" after her mother. The story is of a young girl and her mother as they try to live while the Father is at war. She graced her characters with dignity and intelligence, something not often found among writers of Appalachian culture. Once published it became an instant classic Christmas tale. The book has been made into a musical, play and even into a ballet. It has won the Newton Award and is a 2016 Caldecott Honors recipient. The book was illustrated by Caldecott award winner Barbara Cooney. More than three and a half million copies of the book have been sold. "The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree" has become a favorite family holiday read. Gloria Houston was a graduate of Appalachian State University in nearby Boone, North Carolina. She also studied at the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida where she became a teacher, mentor, and guide to aspiring writers. She held the appointed position of Author in Residence at South Florida University. Gloria Houston went on to write thirteen more books, mostly children's publications of mountain living. Many received prestigious awards. Some of her other writings include "My Great Aunt Arizona," "Mountain Valor" and "Bright Freedom's Song." She has also written an adult novel, "The Carolina Barndance." Many of her books are used at the University Level in teaching children's literature and writing. Her manuscripts and papers will be housed in The Appalachian Historical Collection at Appalachian State University. Gloria Sue Houston was a teacher and public speaker who lived in Asheville, North Carolina.