The True Holiday Spirit of Dallas Clayton

An Awesome Book
Clayton wrote his first book with his son in mind. When he self published it, the book became a wild success, as readers shared it with their families and friends. Clayton’s signature bright, whimsical illustrations and inspirational text are already fully in force. There are watermelon boats, prancing unicorns, tiny trumpet players, and more. Celebrating freewheeling imagination and urging readers to dream big, this rhyming book lends itself to being read aloud. (Score extra cozy points by reading next to your sparkling Christmas tree.)

It’s Never Too Late
Subtitled “A Kid’s Book for Adults,” this may be the picture book that earned Clayton the title of “the new Dr. Seuss.” The rhyming feels effortless, never forced. And the themes are sophisticated. Clayton offers readers of all ages an uplifting invitation to live each day to its fullest. Wondering how you can make the most out of the holiday season? Remember “it’s the love you’ll remember, that you gave and you got, and the times you were certain, and the times you were not.” This book is perfect for children and adults who need a little help remembering what makes the holidays—and every day—so special.

Make Magic! Do Good!
Every Instagram post, shirt, mural, and book Clayton creates is infused with a positively exuberant message. Like the late, great Shel Silverstein’s Where the Sidewalk Ends, this collection of poetry tickles the brain with surreal possibilities, playful language, and heartbreakingly familiar characters. There’s a boy with a beard, a panda who eats too much bamboo, and a porcupine who needs a hug. This book is perfect for anyone who marches to the beat of their own drum and can’t be relegated to a simple naughty or nice list.

Lily the Unicorn
Whether you’re more of an Eeyore or a Tigger, you’ll recognize yourself in this book. Lily is a unicorn who loves everything, from fizzing pickles to playing the xylophone. Roger is a penguin who is not impressed by any of Lily’s fun ideas. He poo poos tic-tac-toe, dodgeball, and even looking at clouds. The world is full of scary things, and Roger wants to avoid them all. Clayton’s expertly navigates their differences, with Lily meeting Roger where he is, instead of having her try to convince him of the error of his ways. Want to extend your hand in friendship to a shy acquaintance or assure your child you’re there for them? This book is sure to start a heartwarming conversation.

A Is for Awesome
Even the youngest readers on your list will welcome a Dallas Clayton book. With each letter in this alphabet book, Clayton celebrates the values we all need reminded of at this time of year: dreaming big, having fun, being passionate. Still not sure this is a holiday book? Q is for “quiet to escape from the madness.” Mindlessly singing another round of carols can wait. This is a lovely book that needs to be shared right away.