Santa lets the "elf out of the bag"...
After hundreds of years, Santa shares his biggest secret.

The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition, by Carol V. Aebersold and Chanda A. Bell, illustrated by Coe Steinwart.

Year after year, children and adults alike are baffled by the mystery of how Santa really knows who is naughty or nice. After much urging by the elves and Mrs. Claus, Santa has allowed his secret to be revealed by a mother-daughter writing duo in their book The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition.

Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell have teamed with illustrator Coë Steinwart to produce a picture book that answers the age-old question. The book is based on an old tradition Aebersold began with her children when they were young. Here's how it works:

Sometime during the holiday season Santa sends a scout elf to each home to watch the children's behavior. The elf gets his Christmas magic when the family gives him a name of his own. Then, each night after the kids are tucked in bed, the elf flies to the North Pole where he reports to Santa who has been naughty or nice that day. Before the children awaken the elf has returned to their home, but he is observing from a new post in the house. The children race out of bed to discover the elf's new hangout for the day.

There is one important rule: children should not touch the elf or he might lose his magic, thus jeopardizing any good reports he may have given Santa. As the book says, "Please do not touch me. My magic might go, and Santa won't hear all I've seen or I know." This rule insures the children's interest in the elf won't wane, and it also helps to teach them self-control. A simple reminder that "the elf is watching" seems to have a remarkable effect on errant behavior.

This beautifully illustrated, hardbound book is innovatively packaged and comes with its own vintage-like pixie elf seated on a shelf in an attractive keepsake box.

Reliving treasured memories, as well as creating new positive family memories could be only one elf away with this new "tradition in a box."


"Thanks for putting such a wonderful book out there! It's our new tradition." - Jeff, Jeff and Jer Show, Star 94.1 FM, San Diego, CA

"My son HAS NOT stopped talking about The Elf on the Shelf. I love the whole concept and the story." - Kristen G., Cadillac Jack and Kristen in the Morning, KICKS 101.5 FM, Atlanta, GA

Las Posas Emporium is proud to be bringing the magic and tradition to Ventura County this holiday season with a book signing and opportunity to meet the authors on Saturday, November 17th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Advance book purchases recommended.

Las Posas Emporium
528 N. Las Posas Road
Camarillo
(805) 987-8757