Cynthia Rylant (see also When I was Young in the Mountains) tells a homey story of a little girl living with her grandparents in the county and how they celebrate Christmas in simple, special ways. Christmas In The Country (Scholastic Bookshelf) Cynthia Rylant 2005 illustrated by Diane Goode Winter in the country is so quiet. The snow slows everything down. Birds are silent and serious. Dogs stay in their warm houses. Children want cocoa and blankets. Everyone is ready for something really special.