Today, I sit down with Mr. Todd Zimmerman, author of the beloved Oliver the Ornament series—a seven-book journey about Christmas, childhood, and kindness. Mr. Zimmerman shares how a career-ending layoff led to a new beginning: writing a children’s book inspired by one simple moment while decorating a tree. What started with one ornament quickly grew into a national campaign to teach children important values through stories, school assemblies, and virtual kindness summits.
We explore how the series caught the attention of the White House, with multiple First Ladies reading Mr. Zimmerman’s books to hospitalized children at Christmas. We also dig into the heartwarming tradition many families have embraced—reading each book in the series alongside the matching ornament, creating lasting memories every holiday season. Additionally, we talk about his upcoming stop-motion animated adaptation of the series, aimed at filling a 50-year gap in high-quality Christmas specials.
Mr. Zimmerman also unveils a national virtual kindness summit for students and teachers across the United States, designed to foster empathy, creativity, and connection through storytelling, card-making, and community engagement. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, aspiring author, or just someone who loves a feel-good story, this episode is a reminder that the smallest ideas—like a forgotten ornament—can spark the biggest transformations.
Overall, the episode is great for young adults, new parents, established parents, authors, and more. Be sure to add the books to your holiday traditions, if not at least the actual ornament of Oliver the Ornament. Use the code down below for 10% off your orders.
His website: https://olivertheornament.com/
Discount Code: christmascowboy
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