Autographed hardcover copy of "The Spirit of Christmas" by Nancy Tillman

Beautifully illustrated, this Christmas book is bound to be hyped as the perfect seasonal gift. In rhymed verse and a first-person voice, the narrator begins: “I had just nodded off, / at a quarter past four, / when the Spirit of Christmas / stepped in through my door.” The “Spirit” conjures up scenes, symbols, smells, and tastes of the season that are encapsulated in spare, rhythmic words: “Candy cane tongues / and marshmallow mustaches. / Everyone caroling songs of goodwill.” A toy-soldier band, a lion and lamb, snow angels, and Santa Claus are beautifully depicted and lead to the Christmas tree and the message behind the celebration. The Spirit reminds the narrator, “Remember, this all began with a child. / Because it took nothing but love to begin it, / it’s not really Christmas if love isn’t in it.” Tillman’s sentimental sensibility and beautiful artwork ensure that this will become a popular choice at holiday time.