Press and Reviews for The December 1st Fairy
Reviews
“The premise is simple but appealing, particularly for parents looking to make the holidays less about presents and more about time spent together. Nutmeg is an endearing character, and her determination to challenge Santa’s established routine adds a welcome touch of mischief. Charlins and Jordan tell the story in lively rhyming verse, using playful language and an easygoing tone that make it especially well suited to reading aloud. The writing balances humour and warmth without allowing its message to overwhelm the story, while the straightforward narrative keeps younger readers engaged. Tammy Do’s illustrations are an absolute pleasure, filling the pages with richly decorated Christmas trees, overflowing sacks of gifts, busy elves, and snowy scenes. Young readers will enjoy the visual details, while parents may appreciate the book’s larger point: Christmas memories are made over time, not just on one morning.
A delightful, festive must-have for family and school libraries.”
Press Release
New Children's Picture Book Introduces a Heartwarming Christmas Tradition Families Can Celebrate All December Long
Authors Karen Charlins and Megan Jordan share the magical story behind her own beloved family tradition that has created joyful memories for more than forty years.
NEW HOPE, Pennsylvania — What if the countdown to Christmas became just as magical as Christmas Day itself? Families, educators, and librarians looking for meaningful holiday read-alouds will find a new seasonal favorite in Karen Charlins’ debut picture book, The December 1st Fairy.
Inspired by a real family tradition created by Charlins and celebrated for more than forty years, The December 1st Fairy tells the magical story of Nutmeg, a clever and caring elf who believes Christmas magic shouldn’t last for only one day. Nutmeg’s dream to help families enjoy the spirit of Christmas throughout the entire month of December inspires Santa to create an entirely new holiday tradition—one filled with festive gifts, crafts, games, treats, and shared experiences that bring families together from December 1st through Christmas morning—and led by none other than Nutmeg herself, as a newly minted fairy.
Written in lyrical rhyme and beautifully illustrated by artist Tammy Do, The December 1st Fairy offers more than a delightful holiday story. It encourages families to unplug, slow down, and create enduring traditions centered on kindness, generosity, and togetherness.
Ideal for preschool through second grade, The December 1st Fairy makes an engaging December read-aloud for classrooms, libraries, and family storytime. It also encourages children to think about the traditions that make their own families unique and inspires them to create new ones together.
“I wrote this book to inspire families to make meaningful connections during the holidays,” says Charlins. “Christmas is not just a day, but a feeling and time that brings friends and family together.”
Along with her writing partner, co-author, and adult daughter, Megan Jordan, Charlins hopes their story will become part of families’ annual holiday celebrations, reminding readers that the most valuable Christmas gifts aren’t found beneath the tree—they’re found in the moments we share with one another.
With its universal message and annual reread appeal, The December 1st Fairy is a picture book families will reach for year after year as they begin their own December traditions.
Perfect for readers who love: The Polar Express, How to Catch an Elf, The Night Before Christmas, and heartwarming holiday family traditions.
