In this world filled with so many somethings,
where could Mooch find nothing?
"Pure delight." — Publishers Weekly
"Priceless." — The Washington Post
"A perfect meditation on gift giving and friendship" — Kirkus Reviews
Patrick McDonnell released the heartwarming picture book The Gift of Nothing, featuring beloved MUTTS duo Mooch and Earl, in October 2005. The story was quickly named a New York Times bestseller, and has since become a perennial favorite.
In 2014, the story was adapted as a musical for the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., where it won a Helen Hayes Award. In 2016, it was adapted into a board book for preschool-age readers called The Little Gift of Nothing. The book also inspired The Gift of Nothing Day, recognized annually on or around December 15.
And this fall, we celebrate the 20th anniversary of this classic holiday book — with a new anniversary edition, now available for preorder!
Preorder at mutts.comSigned copies are available exclusively at MUTTS.com.
The Gift of Everything
& The Gift of Nothing Anniversary Edition
Out October 7, 2025 — now available for preorder!
Fetch the anniversary edition of The Gift of Nothing along with the NEW companion book The Gift of Everything! Plus, for a limited time only, receive a free print — designed just for this preorder — when you reserve both books as a set at MUTTS.com.
PREORDER THE SET
About the Story
This perennial favorite sends a heartfelt, timeless message about the priceless value of friendship.
In the story, Mooch the cat desperately wants to get his friend Earl the dog a gift for the holidays, but Earl already has everything he needs. "What do you give a guy who has everything?" Mooch wonders. Mooch goes shopping, where he looks “up and down every aisle.”
He finds many things — “The latest this, the newest that." Ultimately, he presents Earl with the perfect gift, something far more valuable than anything from a store shelf: Nothing.
“Nothing,” says Mooch, “but me and you.”
"What is the gift of nothing? It’s a gift of love and time shared. More than presents, it’s presence. It’s a wonderful, fun way to celebrate the true meaning of the holidays, and to bring out the child in all of us. I’m glad Mooch thought of it."
— Patrick McDonnell
The Musical at the Kennedy Center
In 2014, this bestselling story was adapted as a musical for the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. It was adapted for the stage by Aaron Posner and Erin Weaver, with music by songwriter Andy Mitton. The adaptation received rave reviews from writers at The Washington Post, The Washingtonian, BroadwayWorld.com, and more. In 2015, the musical won a Helen Hayes Award for "Outstanding Play or Musical Adaptation."
“The show has retained the book’s themes of friendship and giving. Andy Mitton’s music is catchy and tuneful, while his simplistic lyrics are easy for children to follow. Additionally, the production is filled with wonderful moments of audience participation that will keep the most easily-distracted young theatergoer engaged and delighted.”
— Benjamin Tomchik, BroadwayWorld.com
The making of the musical: Go behind the curtain of the Kennedy Center's production of The Gift of Nothing!
Press & Praise for The Gift of Nothing
"A sweet tale with a Zen message."
People Magazine
"The 56-page tome takes only a few minutes to read but will bring joy long throughout the season and beyond. ... Just know that this book is the spirit of Christmas, the kevanah (intent to fulfill the good deed) of Hanukkah, the warmth of Kwanza and anything else exalted this time of year."
TODAY.com
"If you are feeling overwhelmed by the shallowness of our current culture and the callousness of companies who market so relentlessly to our children, I’ve got the perfect antidote for you. The Gift of Nothing by Patrick McDonnell is a delightful, witty, and poignant storybook for children which pokes fun at capitalism run amuck, while offering a sweet example of the gift of friendship."
Mamaguru
The Annual Holiday
The Gift of Nothing Day is recognized annually on or around December 15. The exact date is up to you! It’s an occasion to gift someone — a friend, a family member, or a group of classmates or neighbors — the experience of spending quality time together.
We've heard from teachers, librarians, and parents around the country who say The Gift of Nothing Day has provided an opportunity to create memorable experiences and spark appreciation for the value of non-material gifts like kindness, gratitude, and connection, which are often overlooked in our busy lives.
Creative Tips for Celebrating the Holiday
Resources for Educators and Families
The Gift of Nothing book and holiday offer engaging ways to foster a sense of appreciation and community among students! We love hearing from educators and families about the creative ways they celebrate the occasion with learners of all ages.
Looking for printable worksheets, conversation starters, writing prompts, and more? Visit our resource page featuring activities based on The Gift of Nothing and The Gift of Everything. Plus, get inspired with quotes and real stories from educators and their students!
RESOURCE PAGE COMING SOON
