The Office. Christmas. Two things that I am a huge fan of in this world. Put those two things together and you get The Night Before Christmas at Dunder Mifflin by Brian Baumgartner (Kevin himself) & Ben Silverman. A legendary Christmas story based in the crazy world of The Office.
It’s Christmas Eve at Scranton’s finest paper company, and Michael Scott is nowhere to be found. As the office dozes off after their raucous holiday party, two mysterious visitors sneak in: a Santa peddling holiday cheer and that’s what she said jokes, and his beet-loving, dutiful, right-hand elf. Armed with absurd gifts for the staff, tacky decorations for the office, and absolutely nothing good for Toby, the two prepare to give Dunder Mifflin a holiday they’ll never forget.
The children’s style Christmas tale wonderfully weaves references and moments from the critically acclaimed television series into it’s holiday tapestry, offering longtime fans of The Office a nostalgic journey while introducing us to a new holiday tale. We get encounters with a familiar cast of characters along with absurd gifts for each of member of the staff, along with a story to connect it all together.
We get the balance of comedic antics alongside genuine warmth—a hallmark quality that made The Office such enduring television series. While certain rhymes can feel forced at moments due to trying to marry two distinct things together (the simplicity of Clement Clarke Moore’s original poem versus The Office‘s unique voice and moments), it’s this juxtaposition that lends charm to the tale and allows for us to not take the story too seriously.
Now this story is not just the words on each page, but it is a visual feast for the eyes. Mael Gourmelen‘s whimsical artwork accompanying each verse brings the tale to life before our eyes. This style may not before everyone but truly lends itself to a holiday tale especially one that is both heartwarming and comical.
Along with this beautiful, fun and unique story is an audiobook narrated by Brian Baumgartner. The actor who portray’s Kevin on The Office and is also the co-author of this book masterfully narrates this short tale with ease. His jovial tone adds another layer altogether. Listening to The Night Before Christmas at Dunder Mifflin feels akin not only to reliving cherished moments of The Office, but also indulging ourselves amid festive storytelling done right.
With its quirky illustrations and playful rhymes, The Night Before Christmas at Dunder Mifflin captures the essence of what makes The Office so beloved while embracing the spirit of Christmas. I highly recommend adding this book to your holiday reading traditions.
The Night Before Christmas at Dunder Mifflin is available now at bookstores everywhere. There is a short audiobook, narrated by Brian Baumgartner, available at Libro.fm!
The Night Before Christmas at Dunder Mifflin Preview
