"Gifts of the Heart" by Dean Walley, illustrated by Thelma Christensen, published by Hallmark Editions, 1969. First Edition.

Hard boards, blue cloth with illustrations on both boards [some soiling and wear: see photos], small size: 4" x 6.1/4"; yellow decorated endpapers, yellow marker inscription "Amy" on the title page; unpaginated, c.40 pages, c.20 sepia and color illustrations, very good condition.

Dean Walley (1938-2017) was an American writer, primarily known for his children books and greeting cards.

In 1964, Dean Walley was hired as a writer for Hallmark Cards, Inc. of Kansas City, Mo., and then became a writing manager a year later. After moving to California, he continued to write as an independent freelance writer for several companies, including American Greetings. He was also the head writer for the Los Angeles-based children’s television show, "Dusty's Treehouse." In 1972, he joined April House publications in Lenexa, Kan., where he wrote for a variety of products, including gift books. In 1978, he continued freelancing, taking his skills to Nice, France. After succumbing to what Dean Walley referred to as "French Riviera fever," (spending all his money abroad), he moved back to Kansas City and rejoined the creative minds at Hallmark. Some of his best-selling Hallmark children’s books include "Puck's Peculiar Pet Shop," "Lamont The Lonely Monster" and "The Adventures of Super Pickle." Dean retired in 2003, and in 2011, published his memoir, "Out of Hannibal" in which he relates stories about his life, his beloved hometown of Hannibal and his fascinating career with words.

US: Media (c.2-4 days) --------- $6.50
Canada: 1st Class (c.2-4 weeks) -- $28.50
World: 1st Class (c.2-5 weeks) --- $42.50