As Christmas draws closer and you start putting together Santa’s loot for that little Domer-to-be in your life, I direct your attention to a new book aimed at the smaller set that will make a great stocking stuffer … even if you might have some trouble stuffing it in there.

Clashmore Mike Comes Home tells the story of an Irish Terrier named Mikey, who makes a trip to a Notre Dame home game with his humans. While there, he learns the story of Clashmore Mike, the long-time mascot of the Fighting Irish who shares his lineage, and even finds a way to become part of the Irish game day experience himself.

Created by Notre Dame alums Susan Mullen Guibert and Brendan O’Shaughnessy, the book is a cute reminder of our pre-Leprechaun days, when the Irish mascot prowled the sidelines snarling at foes and wagging for friends. As your elementary schooler pours over its contents, you may find yourself getting caught up in the tale.

More information on Clashmore Mike Comes Home can be found online at NDClashmoreMike.com or on its Facebook page. Copies can be ordered via Corby Publishing, but you’d better hurry if you want it by December 25th.