The Creative License will make a great Christmas gift. However, giving it to someone this December will take a little creativity. Apparently, it may be in some stores before Christmas Day but its official publication date isn't until January 1, 2006.
Here's what I suggest you do.
If your local store doesn't get it it in time, buy another book

that's the same size (The Artist's Way, for example).

Then download the above actual-size, full color PDF of the cover of the Creative License, print it out, trim the edges and wrap it around the other book. Chances are that the recipient won't get around to really looking at the book for a week or so. When they do, they will of course be horribly disappointed and alarmed to discover that the contents do not live up to their expectations. By this point, Amazon or your local bookseller will have ample copies of the genuine item and you will be able to make a quick swap. Any bad feelings about the deception will be instantly expunged in a frenzy of excitement and gratitude.

So feel free to pre-order as many copies as you have friends and neighbors, knowing that your holiday season will be full of cheer, creativity, and just a spot of subterfuge.