L.A. Times Christmas essay author: Michelle Huneven

It’s become a tradition at the L.A. Times Food section: Every year we run a Christmas essay by a noted Southern California writer reflecting the unique nature of the way we celebrate the holidays. This year’s is by novelist Michelle Huneven, whose books include “Round Rock,” “Jamesland” and the most recent, “Blame,” all of which are set in the Southland. For many years, Huneven was also a regular contributor to the L.A. Times’ Food section.