Travel the Back Roads Presents
The Day Noel Came Home
Welcome to The Adventures of Noel & George, a beautifully illustrated children’s book series inspired by true events. These stories follow George, a big-hearted farm dog, and Noel, a curious little lamb, as they share adventures, build friendships, and discover what it means to belong.The first book in the series, The Day Noel Came Home, is set during the Christmas season and tells the heartwarming story of how Noel became part of George’s family. Future stories will explore their adventures throughout their town, the country, and around the world.
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Available Fall 2025
Why Families Will Love Noel & George
A gentle children’s story about friendship and belonging
A perfect read-aloud for kids ages 4–8 at bedtime or in the classroom
Beautifully illustrated farmyard adventures with a dog and a lamb
Stories that combine fun, warmth, and positive values for children
The Day Noel Came Home
It’s Christmas time at the Gardo farmhouse, where candles glow and four lively kids sing carols beside the tree. Their loyal farm dog, George, loves adventures — but wishes for a friend who can keep up.A week after Christmas, a visit to a nearby farm changes everything. Among the ewes and newborn lambs, George notices a tiny black-faced lamb too weak to stand. When the family brings the baby home, they name her Noel — just like the Christmas carol they sang on Christmas Eve.At first, Noel needs diapers, bottles, and lots of cuddles. Soon she’s butting balls in the yard, trotting after George from porch to pasture, and even dozing in Dad’s overall pocket. From playful scenes to tender moments, this heartwarming Christmas children’s picture book shows how love makes room for someone new — and how friendship can be the best gift of all.✨ The Day Noel Came Home is Book 1 of The Adventures of Noel & George, a cozy illustrated children’s book series inspired by real family memories. Perfect for kids ages 4–8, this holiday read-aloud makes an ideal addition to family traditions, classrooms, and bedtime stories.
Fast facts:
Format(s): Hardcover; eBook (EPUB/Kindle and other popular sites)
Age Range: 4–12
Page Count: 40
Trim: ~11" × 8.5" (21.59 x 27.94 cm)
Themes: Christmas, friendship, family, winter, farm life, welcoming someone new
What kids learn:
The joy of Christmas traditions like carols, giving, and welcoming
That true gifts aren’t wrapped under the tree — they’re found in love and friendship
The meaning of friendship and belonging through George and Noel’s bond
The importance of kindness and caring for others, even the smallest or weakest
How family love makes room for someone new, no matter how different they are
Appreciation for farm animals and nature, presented in a gentle and fun way
Click the paw below to get first look and launch alerts.
Authors
Rob & Brenda Guida
Storytellers who celebrate cozy, real life adventures. The Day Noel Came Home is inspired by their family’s dog, George, and a brave little lamb named Noel. They write out of Pottstown, PA.
Eljoh Hartzer
Eljoh Hartzer is a writer and editor from South Africa, crafting stories with care. She partnered with the Guida family for this book series to bring their childhood memories and a special place back to life.
Illustrator
Ayesha Zaki
Ayesha Zaki a freelance illustrator and character designer based in Pakistan, working with different publishers and clients all around the world. Wherever there are fun characters to draw and color palettes to play with, I'm in!
When will the book be available?
We’re targeting Fall 2025 in time for Christmas. Join the list to stay in the loop.
What is a good age range?
Ages 4–12. The Day Noel Came Home is perfect for read aloud for younger children and a great reading book for the older "kids".
Will there be signed copies?
Yes—when the time comes we will have limited “Signed Deluxe” editions. Join the list!
How do I get the preorder bonus?
When preordering is available, a preorder button will be available, which entitles you to an excerpt from book two of the series.
Sign up to stay informed and receive a hi-res images of all the main characters in the book!