The Print Center is hosting a fun holiday event this Saturday, December 9, from 3 — 5 pm to launch local author and illustrator Greg Pizzoli’s new book, The 12 Days of Christmas. Kids can enjoy storytime, treats, and other surprises, while you will have the opportunity to purchase the new book and get it signed as a very special Christmas gift.

You and your kids are probably very familiar with Pizzoli’s engaging and meticulously detailed books, like the award-winning The Watermelon Seed and Good Night Owl. Now, he returns with his own imaginative take on the classic 12 Days of Christmas. While the words are unchanged from the traditional Christmas carol, the hilarious illustrations imbue a completely different perspective.

Each day the little elephant happily receives his new gifts, while his parents look increasingly panicked — where will they keep all those birds? Kids will love the silly illustrations and spotting all the fun little details, while parents will probably relate to the plight of having their house completely overrun with gifts by well-meaning loved ones (looking at you, enthusiastic grandparents). This book is just the right combination of familiar and whimsical that will guarantee its place in your kids’ holiday season year after year.

The December 9 book launch party at the Print Center (1615 Latimer St.) will feature storytime by Pizzoli, who will read the new book as well as some old favorites. Pizzoli will also do a live drawing demonstration, with help from a lucky kid or two in the audience, and art activities will be provided for all kids in attendance. The event will feature some fantastic raffle prizes—everyone who purchases a book receives three raffle tickets—such as signed books, a Christmas ornament made by Pizzoli, a plush of one of his beloved characters, and more goodies!

Kids can also enjoy cookies and treats while their parents can enjoy some adult beverages. In addition to the new book, there will also be some of Pizzoli’s older books available for purchase, as well as a special selection of games and toys also designed by the author.

Lead photograph by Laura Swartz.