3Never before published, A Partridge in a Pear Tree wasn't intended as a commercial venture. Artist Charley Harper perhaps with his wife, Edie, also an artist created the fun little book for his family. A playful riff on the traditional Yuletide carol "The Twelve Days of Christmas," Partridge is the kind of whimsy an artist dashes off while relaxing around the fireplace and that's the beauty of it. With its pastel sketches and humorous text, this sweet take on a holiday classic provides an intimate look at Harper's fun-loving personality.