“Is Santa real?”—a question that turns the most doe-eyed youngsters into pint-sized detectives. Erin Eby, the author of THE SANTA BOOK, understands this youthful curiosity all too well. But instead of dodging the question, the book leans in, inviting junior sleuths to discover a truth about Santa that’s even more magical than they ever imagined.

THE SANTA BOOK opens with an irresistible invitation to the reader: they’ve been chosen to hear a special message about Santa. This also acknowledges how, as children mature, questions and doubts about Santa’s existence naturally arise—from the logistics of delivering gifts worldwide to whispers of disbelief among their friends. Rather than taking the standard route of films like Elf and the Santa Clause movies, or of holiday specials like Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town, THE SANTA BOOK debunks the classic Santa mythos. No, Santa is not a jolly man in a red suit flying around in a reindeer-powered sleigh. “Santa Claus” is, in fact, a collective effort—a sort of societal contract that millions participate in to bring joy to children around the world: “The author of a book you love is Santa. A teacher at your school is Santa. The teenager who delivers pizza is Santa.” The book then outlines three promises that anyone aspiring to be a “Santa” must make: To be grateful for the holiday season and to fill it with peace, goodwill, and wonder; to be kind and generous all year round, expressing love and appreciation through varied forms of gifts; and to serve as a guardian of younger generations, ensuring the magic of Christmas remains alive for them.

Upon agreeing to these promises, the reader takes an “Oath of Three,” pledging to uphold these values. The book closes with a space for both the new Santa and their Santa Elder to sign, cementing their commitment to this new understanding of the holiday spirit. It’s a delightful addition that moves the reader from a position of passively receiving the joys of Christmas to actively participating in creating that joy—not just during the holiday season but throughout the year. The concept of Santa as a collective entity is a significant departure from the usual portrayal. Instead of a single man delivering gifts worldwide, the book suggests that anyone—from the person reading the book to the garbage truck driver—can be Santa. This shift democratizes the holiday myth, making the role accessible to all and encouraging a sense of shared, communal responsibility.

THE SANTA BOOK also stands out from the typical children’s Christmas book by using a sophisticated vocabulary and narrative style more common to literature for grown-ups: “The truth about Santa Claus is even bigger than you imagined. He is not one person, but many working in unison. Santa is much like a flock of birds, more powerful together than alone—their cooperation and shared trust create profound beauty.” For children with a solid grasp of language and the ability to handle abstract concepts, this book opens up avenues for deeper discussions about community, responsibility, and the true meaning of Christmas that go beyond surface-level sparkle and cheer. However, the book’s nuanced language might fly over the heads of those still grappling with basic sentence structures and everyday words. Parents of early readers or those with limited vocabulary might choose to hold off on this one until they’re a bit older.

Madison Harper’s illustrations are an absolute delight, featuring old-fashioned, gorgeously detailed artwork with an emotionally rich color palette that evokes homey warmth, mystery, and wonder. Unlike the illustrations in many children’s books, these aren’t merely supplementary but integral to the storytelling. For parents looking to instill in their children a sense of awe, community, and shared responsibility, this book is a must-have. THE SANTA BOOK doesn’t just capture the spirit of Christmas; it encapsulates the essence of humanity at its best.

In a sea of holiday books that tread the same, well-worn paths, THE SANTA BOOK‘s innovative approach to the Santa Claus mythos is nothing short of groundbreaking—blending emotional depth with intellectual engagement. Erin Eby and Madison Harper’s collaboration elevates the genre, offering not just a whimsical story but a life lesson wrapped in stunning illustrations and a poignant narrative.

~Edward Sung for IndieReader

NOTE: For the trade (read: bookstores, boutiques, and other retailers), TheSantaBook.com/pages/wholesale offers a full book preview that’s unavailable on the DTC site as well as the ability to purchase at wholesale prices.