Guillermo was a boy who simply could not sit still. While other children walked slowly to school, Guillermo skipped and hopped. When he waited in line for lunch, his feet tapped out a happy beat on the floor. Tap, tap, tap. When he helped his father sweep the porch, he wiggled his hips to the rhythm of the broom. Swish, swish, swish. Dancing made Guillermo feel warm, happy, and full of light, like a bright candle glowing in the dark.
He lived in a little village called Frostwood. Usually, Frostwood was the merriest place to be during the holiday season. The rooftops were covered in fluffy white snow, and the windows sparkled with golden lights. The scent of cinnamon and pine needles drifted through the air, making everyone smile. But this year, something strange had happened. A heavy, gray cloud had settled over the village. It was colder than anyone could remember. The wind did not just blow; it roared like a grumpy bear.
It was the afternoon of the Grand Holiday Lighting, the most special event of the year. Guillermo wrapped his thickest wool scarf around his neck and marched toward the town square. He expected laughter and music, but he heard only the howling wind. The town square was filled with people, but they were silent. They stood with their arms crossed tightly over their chests, shivering in their boots. In the center of the square stood the Great Pine. It was tall and magnificent, but it looked dark and sad. The colorful bulbs wrapped around its branches were cold and dim.
Mayor Higgins climbed onto a wooden crate near the tree. He looked very worried, his nose red from the cold. "I have terrible news," the Mayor announced, his voice shaking. "The Spirit Sensor on the Great Pine reads zero.
