The Christmas Hamster is the first book I ever illustrated! It's a lovely story of a lost pet hamster, written by Bryan Gatley and self published in 2008.
You can never really tell what's going to happen when you release a book out into the wild. Needless to say, every family member and distant cousin received one for Christmas in 2008. What surprises me year after year are the kids who "Ooo!" and "Ahh!" when their parents introduce me as "the illustrator of The Christmas Hamster!"
Wait, you mean...kids...really like it!?? Kids really like it!
I've come a long way artistically since 2008, but I can't shake the fact that year after year, this book is still part of some family traditions. That's the best feeling in the world.
Which brings me to the giveaway part!
Earlier this week, I was lucky enough to win John Schu (aka @MrSchuReads) giveaway of Michael Hearst's Unusual Creatures book. He's giving away books all week, actually, as are lots of others participating in the PiBoIdMo Challenge. This simple act of generosity really makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
Wouldn't you know I have a copy of The Christmas Hamster that is sitting here wishing and hoping to be part of your family tradition? I'll sign it and draw a little picture inside, too!
There are three ways to enter, either retweet my tweet about this blog post, tweet with the hash tag #xmashamster, or leave a comment below! Please include a way for me to get in touch with you!
I'll keep track of names until Friday, December 7th at noon and I'm going to pick a winner the good old fashioned way - out of a hat!
Cheers and best of luck!
~Renee
So generous! This looks adorable.
ReplyDeleteJpetroroy at gmail dot com
Hamsters & Christmas! Ahhhh! This is absolutely precious!
ReplyDeletenikidding at gmail dot com
As freakish rat lovers we can so relate to this! ADorable ^_^
ReplyDeleteThe book looks really cute.
ReplyDeleteKathy
jhnskathr@aol.com
Lovely book!!!
ReplyDeleteanacrus at gmail dot com
It's so wonderful! I want it for my own collection! The first book is the one to collect :)
ReplyDeletenicolefazio at yahoo dot com
I love your way of drawing animals!! They all look so cuddly and sweet....
ReplyDeleteJpalangi at yahoo dot com