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Being Santa Claus: What I Learned about the True Meaning of Christmas
A veteran Santa reveals heartwarming true stories and lessons from his twenty-year career spreading Christmas magic.
With the holiday shopping season beginning earlier each year, more than ever. Americans are struggling to remember the true meaning of Christmas. And who better to deliver the gift of Christmas inspiration than a man who has spent the last two decades playing Santa? Sal Lizard was in his twenties when his beard and hair turned completely white. Today he appears everywhere from malls and parades to schools and hospitals. And— from his custom-made red velvet suits to the mistletoe that hangs from the rearview mirror in his Santa-mobile—he is Santa Claus three hundred and sixty-five days a year.
In Being Santa Claus Sal reflects on his experiences with both children and adults In Being Santa Claus Sal shares these lessons, along with often heartwarming, occasionally heartbreaking, and sometimes downright hysterical stories from his twenty-year career as Santa.
With the holiday shopping season beginning earlier each year, more than ever. Americans are struggling to remember the true meaning of Christmas. And who better to deliver the gift of Christmas inspiration than a man who has spent the last two decades playing Santa? Sal Lizard was in his twenties when his beard and hair turned completely white. Today he appears everywhere from malls and parades to schools and hospitals. And— from his custom-made red velvet suits to the mistletoe that hangs from the rearview mirror in his Santa-mobile—he is Santa Claus three hundred and sixty-five days a year.
In Being Santa Claus Sal reflects on his experiences with both children and adults In Being Santa Claus Sal shares these lessons, along with often heartwarming, occasionally heartbreaking, and sometimes downright hysterical stories from his twenty-year career as Santa.
208 pages, Hardcover
First published November 8, 2012
7 people are currently reading
329 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
March 13, 2018
I am a lover of all things Christmas, so it comes as no surprise that I gave this book 5 stars. However, that is truly an unbiased and truly deserved five stars. This is a beautiful story, well told, and touching.
Sal Lizard has been taking on the role of Santa Claus for more than two decades. I say "taking on" because it's so much more than putting on his custom made, beautiful red velvet suit. He truly becomes Santa in every way. He was only in his 20's when his hair and beard turned completely white. Instead of lamenting his premature white hair, he took it as a sign that he was meant to be Santa. He was right.
This book is a group of short stories about his time as the Jolly Old Elf. Some are humerous, some are beautiful, and some are sad. All are worth reading. Thank you Sal for keeping the magic of Santa alive.
Sal Lizard has been taking on the role of Santa Claus for more than two decades. I say "taking on" because it's so much more than putting on his custom made, beautiful red velvet suit. He truly becomes Santa in every way. He was only in his 20's when his hair and beard turned completely white. Instead of lamenting his premature white hair, he took it as a sign that he was meant to be Santa. He was right.
This book is a group of short stories about his time as the Jolly Old Elf. Some are humerous, some are beautiful, and some are sad. All are worth reading. Thank you Sal for keeping the magic of Santa alive.
November 6, 2012
TITLE: "Being Santa Clause"
AUTHOR: Sal Lizard
PUBLISHER: Gotham Books
RATING: 5
AGES: 14+
REVIEW: We see it every year; the men dressed in bright red suits on the street corners, in department stores with children on their knees and even having their pictures taken with the family pets. But there is always the truth behind the facade that most of these men have nothing on their minds but the money they can make by playing one of history's most iconic legends for a couple months a year.
For Sal Lizard it is completely different. In the book, "Being Santa Claus," it wasn't Sal that made the decision to don the crimson hat and coat but the hand that fate dealt him. Sal Lizard, a South Carolina native, has not merely played the role of Santa for several years, but instead he has become Santa to all those that know him and even some that do not. After reading this sweet, amazing, and heart-warming book I have realized there has never been another man that could have embraced and embodied the whimsical legend any better.
Reading Sal's many stories of his beginnings and exploits as Santa is one of the best books to put you in the Christmas spirit that has ever been written. Sal Lizard, literally lives every day of the year as Santa, for those of us that get the warm, fuzzy feeling at that special time of year and think to ourselves, how much we wish it could go on forever... well that is exactly what this amazing man has achieved.
I wholeheartedly commend him on what he does for so many both young and old and I hope he receives the good fortune of the immortality that goes with it.
Keep doing what you do Sal and keep the true spirit of Christmas alive forever.
AUTHOR: Sal Lizard
PUBLISHER: Gotham Books
RATING: 5
AGES: 14+
REVIEW: We see it every year; the men dressed in bright red suits on the street corners, in department stores with children on their knees and even having their pictures taken with the family pets. But there is always the truth behind the facade that most of these men have nothing on their minds but the money they can make by playing one of history's most iconic legends for a couple months a year.
For Sal Lizard it is completely different. In the book, "Being Santa Claus," it wasn't Sal that made the decision to don the crimson hat and coat but the hand that fate dealt him. Sal Lizard, a South Carolina native, has not merely played the role of Santa for several years, but instead he has become Santa to all those that know him and even some that do not. After reading this sweet, amazing, and heart-warming book I have realized there has never been another man that could have embraced and embodied the whimsical legend any better.
Reading Sal's many stories of his beginnings and exploits as Santa is one of the best books to put you in the Christmas spirit that has ever been written. Sal Lizard, literally lives every day of the year as Santa, for those of us that get the warm, fuzzy feeling at that special time of year and think to ourselves, how much we wish it could go on forever... well that is exactly what this amazing man has achieved.
I wholeheartedly commend him on what he does for so many both young and old and I hope he receives the good fortune of the immortality that goes with it.
Keep doing what you do Sal and keep the true spirit of Christmas alive forever.
November 5, 2012
Sal Lizard knows what it means to be Santa Claus, he knows the heartfelt and heartbreaking realities it brings every time he donned the red suit. He spent two decades learning from his mistakes and making miracles. He learned valuable life lessons from the smallest individuals. He laughed and he cried but he never took for granted the responsibility that came with Being Santa Claus.
For over 20 years, starting as a fluke and practical joke and ending as a career Sal Lizard takes us through the ups and downs, the laughter and tears and the true magic he found when he put on the red suit and became Santa Claus. He mentions his most poignant moments and his most trying. We’ll get to meet his family, the clients that called upon him year after year and some very creative ways to make all his stops and fulfill all the requests. He takes us through his time as a mall Santa to his special pajama visits on Christmas Eve. He’ll tell us stories about the youngest lap visit to the oldest. The naughty and nice lists that were always checked twice and the ever present candy cane.
If you’re looking for a really great kickoff to get you in the Christmas Spirit this little, easy to read and emotional book should be first on your list. If you’ve lost the spirit or know someone who has just slip this little treasure into the stocking and those spirits will come back.
I only have one thing to say to Sal Lizard aka Santa. I still believe.
For over 20 years, starting as a fluke and practical joke and ending as a career Sal Lizard takes us through the ups and downs, the laughter and tears and the true magic he found when he put on the red suit and became Santa Claus. He mentions his most poignant moments and his most trying. We’ll get to meet his family, the clients that called upon him year after year and some very creative ways to make all his stops and fulfill all the requests. He takes us through his time as a mall Santa to his special pajama visits on Christmas Eve. He’ll tell us stories about the youngest lap visit to the oldest. The naughty and nice lists that were always checked twice and the ever present candy cane.
If you’re looking for a really great kickoff to get you in the Christmas Spirit this little, easy to read and emotional book should be first on your list. If you’ve lost the spirit or know someone who has just slip this little treasure into the stocking and those spirits will come back.
I only have one thing to say to Sal Lizard aka Santa. I still believe.
November 5, 2012
Heartwarming without being sappy. I expected "Being Santa Claus" to be too goody, goody for a good read, but I enjoyed this sweet little book. It might even get Ebenezer Scrooge into the spirit.
Spoiler: Do not read if you believe in Santa!
Spoiler: Do not read if you believe in Santa!
February 21, 2016
My son's tutor, is the author's mother and she gave me this book months ago. It sat on my nightstand gathering dust and finally I motivated. I read it in one night. What a wonderful true story about a professional Santa Claus who embodies the true spirit of Santa. The author's mom told me this book did not get the proper roll out - what a shame because this book is very endearing and entertaining.
Want to read
October 8, 2012there is nothing more rewarding than having a great heart to portray Santa. I bet the author has some amazing stories to tell in this book. Hope to win this book, please!
December 25, 2012
Great read for the holiday season! Loved it!
December 16, 2012
Loved this book so so much. Perfect read for the season. Highly recommended.
December 28, 2012
I loved reading the stories about Mr. Lizard's experiences as a Santa. His substitute teaching experience was especially humorous to me, as a teacher. This book was a wonderful Christmas read.
December 28, 2023
This book was so good! At first I thought what a creeper! A man named Sal Lizard acting like Santa Claus, what a pervert, but I was so wrong! Sal Lizard is a wonderful, caring man that truly does epitomize Santa Claus and all he stands for. I cried and I laughed and it was just a great story for all the ‘feels’!! It was so, so good! I loved it so much and I want everyone to read it!!
November 27, 2013
"When is it too soon to feel joyful?"
Here it is, the day before Thanksgiving, and while leaving a bookstore this morning (a store I'd entered into - I won't lie - just to use the bathroom), I ran across Sal Lizard's book, an account of two decades worth of "being" Santa.
Lizard lucked into the role so to speak, the beneficiary of genetics that left him slightly paunchy and prematurely white-haired in his late 20's. Asked by a radio DJ to participate in a holiday toy-giving drive, Lizard found his life's work and love.
In the book he recounts numerous stories from his time as Santa, revealing that the true effect of Santa is not a present-lined floor, but a restoration of the human spirit. Children and adults alike change in his presence, believers again in hope and goodness, and sometimes even a little inexplicable magic. His stories are told with a wonderful spirit; he's at once both sincere and playful.
The quotation above stems from an encounter Lizard had once with a mall customer, disgruntled that he was present before Thanksgiving. I'm sure it's a sentiment that a great many people have, viewing Christmas as an ever more commercial holiday, only out to make retailers more money. That sentiment might be especially true this year with many stores opening early on Thanksgiving, luring customers in with pre-Black Friday deals. Yet Lizard, in asking if there's ever a time where it isn't appropriate to be joyful, gives voice to the continuing need for magic. And as the traditional harbinger of the season at the end of the myriad of Thanksgiving parades, he is a symbol of a period when the world seems a little more right. In all of the hustle and bustle and stress, Santa is a reminder to slow down, smile, believe that anything is possible, and see the magic of the small moments. It's hard to argue with that.
I easily give this book - 192 pages that I blazed through in about three hours - five clear stars. Or maybe it should be five hankies. Hopefully you'll find yourself tearing up at the wonderful spirit of Christmas as much as I did.
Here it is, the day before Thanksgiving, and while leaving a bookstore this morning (a store I'd entered into - I won't lie - just to use the bathroom), I ran across Sal Lizard's book, an account of two decades worth of "being" Santa.
Lizard lucked into the role so to speak, the beneficiary of genetics that left him slightly paunchy and prematurely white-haired in his late 20's. Asked by a radio DJ to participate in a holiday toy-giving drive, Lizard found his life's work and love.
In the book he recounts numerous stories from his time as Santa, revealing that the true effect of Santa is not a present-lined floor, but a restoration of the human spirit. Children and adults alike change in his presence, believers again in hope and goodness, and sometimes even a little inexplicable magic. His stories are told with a wonderful spirit; he's at once both sincere and playful.
The quotation above stems from an encounter Lizard had once with a mall customer, disgruntled that he was present before Thanksgiving. I'm sure it's a sentiment that a great many people have, viewing Christmas as an ever more commercial holiday, only out to make retailers more money. That sentiment might be especially true this year with many stores opening early on Thanksgiving, luring customers in with pre-Black Friday deals. Yet Lizard, in asking if there's ever a time where it isn't appropriate to be joyful, gives voice to the continuing need for magic. And as the traditional harbinger of the season at the end of the myriad of Thanksgiving parades, he is a symbol of a period when the world seems a little more right. In all of the hustle and bustle and stress, Santa is a reminder to slow down, smile, believe that anything is possible, and see the magic of the small moments. It's hard to argue with that.
I easily give this book - 192 pages that I blazed through in about three hours - five clear stars. Or maybe it should be five hankies. Hopefully you'll find yourself tearing up at the wonderful spirit of Christmas as much as I did.
November 14, 2012
Review based on ARC.
There's a lot of magic in a book like this. It was encouraging and hopeful reading about all the ways in which the spirit of Christmas is alive and well. I personally agreed with a lot of Mr. Lizard's points and perspectives.
Sal Lizard is a "Genuine Santa" and has spent the past two decades reminding people, young and old, that the spirit of Christmas is what matters. The book really is a "feel good" book, and I spent many pages smiling, reminiscing, and, yes, wiping away tears.
The book does a nice job of going through the life of this genuine santa and many of his experiences, painting a complete picture of why his persona is more "genuine" than the rest.
What I didn't love about the book was really just that at times it seemed that the focus was more on Sal's good-deeds. BUT, to be fair, the book was not actually written by Sal. Sal told his stories, and the form they took in final publication may have been someone else's doing.
Indeed, Sal did do a lot of good in the world. I didn't necessarily agree with all of his lessons or goals, but I didn't have to, to enjoy the book, the stories, the people, and the spirit of Christmas. I particularly loved the story of Donna and have often hoped that I can someday make a similar, faceless impact on someone else's life.
Overall, a great "feel good" book for the holidays.
Definitely recommend!
There's a lot of magic in a book like this. It was encouraging and hopeful reading about all the ways in which the spirit of Christmas is alive and well. I personally agreed with a lot of Mr. Lizard's points and perspectives.
Sal Lizard is a "Genuine Santa" and has spent the past two decades reminding people, young and old, that the spirit of Christmas is what matters. The book really is a "feel good" book, and I spent many pages smiling, reminiscing, and, yes, wiping away tears.
The book does a nice job of going through the life of this genuine santa and many of his experiences, painting a complete picture of why his persona is more "genuine" than the rest.
What I didn't love about the book was really just that at times it seemed that the focus was more on Sal's good-deeds. BUT, to be fair, the book was not actually written by Sal. Sal told his stories, and the form they took in final publication may have been someone else's doing.
Indeed, Sal did do a lot of good in the world. I didn't necessarily agree with all of his lessons or goals, but I didn't have to, to enjoy the book, the stories, the people, and the spirit of Christmas. I particularly loved the story of Donna and have often hoped that I can someday make a similar, faceless impact on someone else's life.
Overall, a great "feel good" book for the holidays.
Definitely recommend!
December 12, 2012
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher.
If your holiday spirit isn't up to par this year, I suggest you go pick up this book. I was a little skeptical about this book at first. I worried this it might be a little too gimmicky. After reading the first chapter, however, I was completely charmed.
This sweet memoir tells the story of professional Santa Claus Sal Lizard. Lizard recounts how he first got into the Santa Claus business and then tells many stories from his career about how he was able to change the lives of others and how they in turn changed his life. The book is completely heart-warming. I teared up several times reading some of Lizard's experiences. I also appreciated how he seems to have come up with some really great answers to some of those tough questions kids ask about Santa Claus. I'm going to use some them on my own child.
It's a short book and I don't want to give too much away. The book can easily be read in one sitting. Especially by the fire with a cup of cocoa. This is a man who truly embodies the Spirit of Christmas and has one of the best jobs in the world.
BOTTOM LINE: Recommended. If you are looking for some reading to get you in the holiday spirit, this is your book.
If your holiday spirit isn't up to par this year, I suggest you go pick up this book. I was a little skeptical about this book at first. I worried this it might be a little too gimmicky. After reading the first chapter, however, I was completely charmed.
This sweet memoir tells the story of professional Santa Claus Sal Lizard. Lizard recounts how he first got into the Santa Claus business and then tells many stories from his career about how he was able to change the lives of others and how they in turn changed his life. The book is completely heart-warming. I teared up several times reading some of Lizard's experiences. I also appreciated how he seems to have come up with some really great answers to some of those tough questions kids ask about Santa Claus. I'm going to use some them on my own child.
It's a short book and I don't want to give too much away. The book can easily be read in one sitting. Especially by the fire with a cup of cocoa. This is a man who truly embodies the Spirit of Christmas and has one of the best jobs in the world.
BOTTOM LINE: Recommended. If you are looking for some reading to get you in the holiday spirit, this is your book.
November 24, 2020
Sal Lizard shares his experiences of portraying Santa Claus in this memoir. No, that’s not quite right. He really has become the spirit of Santa Claus, even when he is not in his traditional red suit. Not all the memories are good or happy ones, but most are. He has been Santa for decades, in a variety of ways. He has interacted with small kids and with big kids; with healthy kids and with sick and dying ones; with kids who believed in Santa and with those who had mostly lost the magic of believing. Through it all, Sal has done his best to live up to the high standards he has set for himself. This memoir, written with the help of writer Jonathon Lane, is an astonishing collection of Sal’s experiences through the years. From the tiniest toddler to the 80 year old grandma who gets her picture taken with Santa every year of her life, Sal is Santa Claus, and has done his best to spread joy and encouragement to others. This memoir will perhaps inspire others to follow his example. You don’t have to wear a red suit to share the joy of Christmas with those you meet.
December 4, 2012
A great little book to read at the holidays which will cause you to slow down, remember what Christmas is all about, and make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside without all the saccharin that permeates so many Christmas stories.
While so many behind-the-scenes books that look at different jobs are cynical, this one focuses on the positive. Author/Santa Sal Lizard even turns the challenges (getting peed on, etc.) into opportunities to make a tender, human connection. It's a book that inspires its readers to be a little kinder, a little more patient. God bless us, everyone!
While so many behind-the-scenes books that look at different jobs are cynical, this one focuses on the positive. Author/Santa Sal Lizard even turns the challenges (getting peed on, etc.) into opportunities to make a tender, human connection. It's a book that inspires its readers to be a little kinder, a little more patient. God bless us, everyone!
September 25, 2018
This is the most wonderful book that I believe I have ever read that dealt with Santa Clause. It will have you laughing, smiling, crying and thanking God for such a wonderful person. I try to read this book every year because it is just that kind of book. I would recommend this book for anyone who still believes in the power of Santa Clause and still believes that Santa Clause really does exist. It brings the magic of Christmas into your heart and reignites the true meaning of Christmas every time you read it and it is definitely one book that you won't be able to put down.
January 13, 2013
(Received as First Reads and although finished before Christmas, just now able to review...sorry, Sal, but thank you!) An enjoyable and charming story of what it means to be Santa Claus. Personal and heartfelt, Mr. Lizard's story was what Christmas is about...caring. My only criticism would be that the story meanders at times and could use more careful editing or keeping to a timeline(?) (In some ways however, the story-telling adds to the "genuine-ness" of the book.)
December 30, 2018
The author, Sal Lizard, writes about his experiences working as a Santa Claus. His memories contain a number of cute stories and memories. There are also a few serious stories of his work with children with serious illnesses and a child living apart from Mom at Christmas time in a children's home.
My library features books each month for readers. This book was one of the choices for December.
It is a quick easy read. A pleasant read at Christmas time.
My library features books each month for readers. This book was one of the choices for December.
It is a quick easy read. A pleasant read at Christmas time.
December 3, 2019
Such a great way to kick off the Christmas season! I took this book on a Thanksgiving weekend vacation, wanting to kick of my Merry! This fit the bill perfect. Santa talked about many wonderful events he has experienced and his new way of thinking .. "What would Santa Do..." I now will try and think - What would Mrs Claus do? The magic of Santa is real and I am so glad he shared with us.
July 7, 2014
If you like Christmas this is a great book about the holiday spirit. Its funny and heartwarming. I love that he takes his job as Santa so seriously. It was nice to see how he can really see the good in people. I am sure he could have told just as many tales of spoiled brats and angry parents but he kept it upbeat and positive the whole time. I really enjoyed this book.
December 29, 2015
again another dollar tree find that really surprised me. I usually hate nonfiction but this book definetly got me in the joyful Christmas spirit. its funny how little we think of what goes on behind the scenes of 'being Santa' and the lengths they go through to keep kids believing. I really enjoyed it.
December 14, 2018
This book has changed my perspective on all things Santa Claus; never have I felt the spirit of Christmas so strongly. I'm sure that this book will become an annual must read to get me into the holiday spirit and to kindle the magic in my own soul.
I laughed, I cried and I marveled. I will never stop believing!
I laughed, I cried and I marveled. I will never stop believing!
November 12, 2012
A book full of genuine Christmas spirit. Sweet, heartwarming stories that will renew your faith in people, and make you wish you could be Santa Claus! Lots & lots of happy tears--read this one with a box of Kleenex. A quick read perfect for the holidays.
June 23, 2013
I was pretty skeptical about this book prior to reading it but I have to say I really enjoyed it. It was heart warming and inspiring and made me cry about four times. I guess I shouldn't 't be surprised, O love Christmas movies and Christmas music so why not Christmas books? Truly magical.
December 5, 2017
True tales from a career Santa that warmed my heart, made me cry and get even more excited for Christmas magic. I can only dream that every Santa that my daughter will meet in her lifetime is as genuine and thoughtful as Sal. He may just be the real Santa after all.
January 2, 2013
Heart-touching stories from Sal Lizard about his 20 year career spreading Christmas cheer and magic as Santa.
December 11, 2012
Not a well-written book, but one with heart. I'd recommend it for anyone who needs some Christmas magic.
December 27, 2012
This is a great holiday read.
December 22, 2012
This book is filled with Christmas Spirit. I believe that Sal Lizard is Santa.
December 30, 2012
This book will not only make you laugh and cry, but in the end it just make you believe again.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews