I always love partnering with New Growth Press because they consistently produce such high-quality, gospel-centered literature for families, and their newest release, Tully’s Christmas Mess, is no exception! Their books aren’t just beautifully written and illustrated—they’re packed with truth that points little hearts (and ours!) back to Jesus.
As a mom, I appreciate stories that go beyond cute characters and funny moments to teach lasting lessons about faith, forgiveness, and grace. Every time I open one of their titles with my kids, I know it’s going to spark a meaningful conversation—and this sweet Christmas story does exactly that.
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Recommended ages – 3-8 years
Price – $16.99 at New Growth Press
Reading Level- Elementary
Our Favorite Part – My favorite part of Tully’s Christmas Mess is how it captures that cozy, nostalgic feeling of Christmas—the lights, the tree, the family moments, and yes, even the messes. But woven through it all is the true message of Christmas: that Jesus came into our messy world to bring hope, love, and redemption.
Where can I buy these books, what are the best ages for these books, and where can I buy them? Let’s dive deeper into those questions.
Tully’s Christmas Mess
This little picture book begins with the fun chaos of a dog named Tully who wants to join in all the Christmas festivities. His family keeps saying things like, “No Tully. Sit down. You will make a mess.” And of course—you know what happens: his leash gets tangled around the Christmas tree and down it comes.
At first, Tully is worried: “Uh-oh, I ruined Christmas!” But rather than the family being upset, the story gently pivots to the true meaning of Christmas: how Jesus came into our messy world to rescue, restore, and love.
As a homemaking, homeschooling, homesteading, working, business owner mom who also juggles five young boys, farm animals, and a dog —this one speaks right to the “messy but meaningful” Christmas moments.
More about the Author
The authors of Tully’s Christmas Mess are Jill Miller and Paul E. Miller. Jill is a mother of six, wife of Paul, caretaker of donkeys, goats, and dogs in rural Pennsylvania—so yes: she knows a thing or two about real life messes!
Paul Miller is the executive director of the mission see Jesus, and a bestselling author.
They bring both heart and theology. They don’t just tell a fun Christmas story—they weave in the gospel in a way kids and families can grasp.
More about the Illustrator
The illustrator is Jonty Howley from West Sussex, UK. He studied illustration at the University of the Arts, London, and has worked as an animator, designer, and children’s book illustrator/author.
His style is charming and playful—perfect for capturing that moment the tree falls, the chaos that ensues, and ultimately that softened moment of hope. The combination of relatable “real-life dog mess” and meaningful gospel truth feels seamless because the visuals back it up.
The Layout
Tully’s Christmas Mess is a 32-page hardcover picture book.
What stands out:
- The physical format: large enough for little ones to sit in your lap and view the art together.
- Illustrations feel expressive and dynamic (good for holding kiddos’ attention).
- The story builds tension (Tully messes up) then resolution (family embraces gospel truth).
- Bonus: there’s a special section written by Paul Miller that helps families dive deeper into the gospel message shared in the story.
You’re not just getting a “cute dog” story—you’re getting a meaningful resource to facilitate conversation around faith during the holiday season.
Recommended Ages
Accordig to the listing on New Growth Press this book is suitable for ages 4-7 years. However, as with all children’s books, I find that the recommended ages are irrelevent because quality liture is sutible for any age!
Where to Buy
You can find Tully’s Christmas Mess directly on the New Growth Press website, available in both physical and eBook formats. If you’re able, I highly recommend purchasing straight from the publisher. I’m not totally against big retailers like Amazon—but let’s be honest, they don’t need our support the way smaller, gospel-centered publishers do. When you choose to buy from New Growth Press, you’re helping them continue to create meaningful, Christ-focused stories for families like ours.
7. Final Mom Thoughts
Okay, friends—here’s how I feel about this little gem:
If your holiday season comes with glitter, goats, children figuring out gifts, and maybe a dog who tries to help but ends up tangled in tinsel—this is your book. Tully’s Christmas Mess doesn’t pretend Christmas is perfect. Instead, it shows that a mess can be a pathway to meaning: the tree falls, dust settles, and the gospel shines.
For my fellow homemaker moms, especially those embracing the beautiful chaos of many littles, this book gives permission to say: “It’s okay if it’s messy. The point isn’t the perfection of the decorations—it’s the perfection of what God did.” You’ll find joy in reading this aloud, sharing the “ha-look-what-the-dog-did” moment, then leaning into the “Jesus enters our mess” conversation. I’ll likely pull this out each year—with hot chocolate, a cozy blanket, and the dog curled up beside us.
Bottom line: Yes, I recommend adding Tully’s Christmas Mess to your Christmas book rotation. It bridges laughter and faith in a way that honors the joyful mess of a real home—and reminds us what Christmas is really about.
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