The Paratrooper Who Became a Christmas Storyteller: Lee & Donna Allen on 30 Years of The Special Guest

Episode Description:

This year marks the 30th anniversary of The Special Guest – A Christmas Story, a Barnes & Noble bestseller when it first released in 1996. Written by former 82nd Airborne Captain and entrepreneur Lee Allen and beautifully illustrated by his wife Donna Campbell Allen, the story began as a simple keepsake for their children and has grown into a timeless holiday classic.

In this heartfelt conversation, Lee and Donna share:

• The inspiration behind The Special Guest and how its meaning has deepened for their family over three decades.

• Donna’s role in bringing the story to life through illustration and art.

• How holiday stories can reconnect families in a busy world.

• A sneak peek at their upcoming sequel, Legend of the Wooden Star.

• Why they chose to partner with Angel Tree to bring joy to children of incarcerated parents.

• Their hopes for the legacy of storytelling as parents, grandparents, and faith-filled creatives.

🎄 Whether you’re discovering The Special Guest for the first time or revisiting it as a tradition, this episode invites you to unwrap themes of forgiveness, family, and the true spirit of Christmas.