This is a title from an instantly recognisable brand of Little Golden Books. The series celebrated its 75th Anniversary in 2017 having sold over one billion copies! First 12 titles were published in America in 1942 selling for 25c each. At the time, quality books for children cost at least $2 or $3 and were considered a luxury for most families. Within 5 months of the Little Golden Books launch 1.5 million copies of the first 12 titles have been sold. By the early 1950’s sales reached 183 million and the series were available around the world except in the Soviet Union where they were considered too capitalistic. Then by the late 1980’s, the number of printed copies of all Little Golden Books titles (expanded a lot from the original 12) have reached one billion. [1]
The masterminds behind the books series affordable to all were the Americans George Duplaix and Lucile Ogle, both working at The Artists and Writers Guild Inc at the time. Their mission has been to help millions of children develop a lifelong love of reading, which has been accomplished times over during the past 75 years and is continuing to date.
“The Little Christmas Elf” is by the American writer Nikki Shannon Smith, illustrated by Susan Mitchell. Santa’s workshop is buzzing with activity. Elves are busy making presents. Nina, the littlest elf, is making a cuddly teddy bear. Being the youngest she takes time and to her dismay does not finish the bear in time to get loaded onto Santa’s sleigh. Santa suggests that Nina keeps going anyway and encouraged by the kind words she perseveres and finishes the teddy bear. What Nina did not expect is that later that night Santa will return in need of an extra present for a new baby who was born while the presents were being delivered. Nina’s teddy bear is just perfect for the occasion!
This book is for those still questioning what is happening at the far-away Santa’s base, what do elves look like and how do they go about making presents. The Illustrations with their Little Golden Books vintage feel will give some food for thought to those curious little minds.
For other great Christmas and winter themed books click here.
[1] http://www.littlegoldenbooks.com/about/
