What people are saying
A young boy reminds his parents that being 'perfect' has less to do with outward appearance and more to do with the beauty of being unique and different. The traditional hunt for a 'perfect' Christmas tree is a great metaphor to reinforce the lessons that beauty is not always symmetrical and evenly spaced branches. This beautifully illustrated book is a whimsical holiday reminder that we can reinforce positive ideals in everyday activities, and encourages families to re-think their own perspectives and views about what makes something "perfect."
KC Connor
This is a wonderful story about the McMillen family getting their tree for the upcoming Christmas. The search brings the typical debate about which tree is the most beautiful as the family decides which one to take home. However, for one reason or another the gangly fir catches the eye of young Alec despite its imperfections. The story ends with a meaningful lesson about the value of being unique, and showing kindness to everyone even those who are different! This is a great book for kids, and one that will be cherished for years to come!
Steve Horlacher
This book is a beautiful story of the annual Christmas tree hunt and the unlikely choosing of a tree that would have been forgotten. It is a great lesson for children and families to share and will make everyone look at their chosen tree differently! The author is a friend of mine and we also often go to the same tree farm where it is set, but even if she were not, I would pick up this book for my kids this holiday season. Giving a book to a child is the best kind of gift and this is one they can read each year as a tradition before the hunt!
Lara Kauffman
This is a heartfelt holiday story that brings home the message of acceptance and appreciation for difference. The collaborative efforts of a family in search for their ideal annual Christmas tree reveals the McMillen's family values and the power of communication with our children. The illustrations invite you to join the story setting and enhance your visual journey through a nostalgic "Happy Valley Holiday". Dana captures the essence of the season and no matter what your celebration tradition is, you will relate to this book.
Amazon Customer
Hard to imagine a more meaningful message to children and parents alike in the spirit of Christmas. A simple message of human kindness and spirit delivered in a beautifully written and illustrated book that drives home, in a very creative way, the importance of the concept of accepting others for who they are as individuals and not by their outward appearance. That ages old adage of "don't judge a book by its cover" is perfectly personified in the pages of this wonderful book. A must have book in any children's book collection!
Edward
Love this book! For all ages....my youngest loves the illustrations, my older ones enjoy finding the hidden "critter" on each page and we are all touched by its message. A book to be read year round in order to be reminded that everyone is "perfectly imperfect" just like Parker. A perfect gift for the holidays!
LBH
How many of us can relate to this story? Our family has a similar tradition and Dana’s book reminded me of our annual treks to find the “perfect tree!” This story is heartwarming, imaginative and reminds us that accepting our differences is what the world needs now. Bravo!
LA JEFFRIES
I love this book! The story is inspiring and the illustrations are lovely. I find that the message inside is beautiful without being too over the top preachy. My kids enjoy the story and happily take the conversation farther that it doesn’t matter what you look like on the outside, but rather who you are on the inside. Amen to that!
SARA HULSE
If you need an inspirational holiday story with a positive message for children about acceptance, then this is the book for you! The message will far outlast the holidays and the illustrations will delight the young and old. A perfect story about a traditional trek to choose the family tree will become a family favorite!
B. Lincoln
This book makes my heart swell. Such a fun read, with a beautiful message that almost sneaks up on you. Each time I read this book, I’m surprised at how taken I am with the story and characters. There’s something about the storytelling that evokes a sentimental feeling. Young readers will be pulling this book off the shelf, asking you to read it again and again—and you’ll be delighted to indulge them. It’s the perfect Holiday gift for readers of all ages!
T. KOGELMANN
Perfectly Imperfect Parker is an amazing family story with a powerful message. My children love to read this story over and over and love the illustrations. They can't wait to go pick out our "Parker"!
D. Hall
Loved it. This story appeals to a wide age range. For young children it tells a lovely Christmas story about a tree finding a home. For older children it tells a story of acceptance, inclusion and the worth of beings who are different, who are unlike those around them. The story speaks of the value of every being. In addition the McMillen Family is delightful in how they exemplify compassion and acceptance. It's a tale that merits reading again and again.