You'll have two chances to meet Richard Jesse Watson this year, Saturday and Sunday, December 6 & 7, from 1:00-3:00pm.

This award-winning children's book author and illustrator visited ABFAS last December and we are pleased to welcome him back for the release of The Boy Who Went Ape. A hilarious tale that asks the unlikely question: what would happen on a class trip if the worst-behaved boy in the class accidentally traded places with the chimp at the zoo?

As the class continues on their trip around town, the chimp's behavior as a "boy" becomes increasingly hilarious. The stern teacher doesn't realize the switch, but she gets fed up with the misbehavior and antics. Children will laugh aloud as the chimp wreaks havoc at a grocery store, a restaurant, and the fire station. Meanwhile, back at the zoo, the boy is having a very different day! The vivid illustrations are a perfect complement to this enjoyable book written by Benjamin James Watson.

Also in time for Christmas is the paperback edition of Richard Jesse Watson's New York Times best-selling and wonderfully illustrated book of Clement C. Moore's The Night Before Christmas. Watson's magnificent paintings infuse traditional holiday images with pizzazz and flair. Spilling over with all the joy and generosity of the season, this playful picture book is perfect for families of today.
Watch for the remarkable cast of elves who populate these pages. Best of all, see Santa Claus himself as you've never seen him before, complete with an exclusive interview.

Take a look at more of Richard Jesse Watson's art and books by visiting his website!

Buy a SIGNED copy of The Boy Who Went Ape - $16.99

Buy a SIGNED copy of The Night Before Christmas - $6.99