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Table of Contents
About The Book
From the beloved comedian, writer, and director Julio Torres, a hilarious and whimsical journey through the art of giving.
In this beautifully illustrated book from a brilliantly absurd mind, Julio Torres, cult comedian, filmmaker, and former Saturday Night Live writer, brings his signature surreal humor to this creative collection of gifts for every person and occasion. A playful yet profound reflection on human connection, each gift builds on the relationship between the giver and recipient. These are not simply objects—these are bridges: a sublet map to maximize the space in your apartment; a patient grandson who helps with technology; tiny, little stairs so your dreams can come out at night and dance. Delightfully impractical, yet deeply artistic and innovative, The Perfect Gift is the perfect kids book for adults: a celebration of the imagination, especially for those who expect the unexpected.
In this beautifully illustrated book from a brilliantly absurd mind, Julio Torres, cult comedian, filmmaker, and former Saturday Night Live writer, brings his signature surreal humor to this creative collection of gifts for every person and occasion. A playful yet profound reflection on human connection, each gift builds on the relationship between the giver and recipient. These are not simply objects—these are bridges: a sublet map to maximize the space in your apartment; a patient grandson who helps with technology; tiny, little stairs so your dreams can come out at night and dance. Delightfully impractical, yet deeply artistic and innovative, The Perfect Gift is the perfect kids book for adults: a celebration of the imagination, especially for those who expect the unexpected.
About The Author
Photograph by Andrew Lipovsky
Julio Torres is an award-winning Salvadoran American writer, director, comedian, and author. His picture book, I Want to Be a Vase, illustrated by animator and designer Julian Glander, was inspired by his HBO stand-up special My Favorite Shapes. He also created, wrote, directed, and starred in the one-man show Color Theories, which was filmed during its sold-out Off-Broadway run and debuted as an HBO special. He cocreated and starred in the series Los Espookys and wrote, directed, and starred in HBO’s Fantasmas, both of which won Peabody Awards. Torres made his feature directorial debut with A24’s Problemista and earned four Emmy nominations for his work on Saturday Night Live. Across books, film, television, and the stage, he explores humor, absurdity, and the small, often-overlooked details of everyday life.
Product Details
- Publisher: Simon & Schuster (November 3, 2026)
- Length: 144 pages
- ISBN13: 9781668002377
Raves and Reviews
“I do not know how he does it, but Julio’s nonsense totally makes sense.”
– Isabella Rossellini
"I purchased extra copies of this book to keep on hand for when I'm invited to a last minute party and I need a hostess gift for someone I want to impress with my generosity and good taste. It wouldn't kill you to do the same."
– Cole Escola
Resources and Downloads
High Resolution Images
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Book Cover Image (jpg): The Perfect Gift
eBook 9781668002377
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Author Photo (jpg): Julio Torres Photograph by Andrew Lipovsky(0.1 MB)
Any use of an author photo must include its respective photo credit
