Natalie Andrus, a new Christian children’s author, has just released her first book in time for the Christmas holiday. In her book, Natelf, a young girl, an elf, and a special doll that transforms into different countries share in a special Christmas and Birthday celebration. Follow along as they experience Christmas in various cultures and learn about other traditions. In this heartwarming tale, discover the joy of giving and how different countries celebrate Jesus’ birthday.

Meet Natalie and Natelf

Natalie is a little girl who wishes for a special Christmas gift. Her name is Natalie because it means “Christmas Child,” and she was born on Christmas Day. Her wish is to have a collection of dolls from different countries. She writes a letter to Santa explaining her wish even though her parents have told her she can only have one doll. The letter is read by one of Santa’s elves with a similar name -Natelf.

The Special Gift

Natelf begins making a magical doll but is worried she will not have time to finish. Thankfully, the reindeer overeat chocolate and must rest before flying, giving Natelf time to finish the special gift. Natelf is so tired from her work that she falls asleep with the magical doll inside the box. Santa then delivers the box to Natalie’s house, not knowing that Natelf is sleeping inside.

When Natalie opens the box, she screams excitedly, and Natlef pops out. Natelf gives Natalie the doll she had made. The doll is dressed in red, white, and blue, resembling the American flag. As she hugs the doll, it says, “Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday.”

The Magical Transformations

When she hugs the doll a second time, it magically changes into a Mexican doll in a colorful dress and says, ” Feliz Navidad and Feliz Cumpleanos.” The doll now holds a pinata because children in Mexico celebrate with pinatas.

Natalie hugs the doll again, turning it into a Dutch doll that recites Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday in Dutch. The pinata changes to a wooden shoe filled with candy.

A fourth hug changes the doll to a Japanese doll dressed in a kimono and holding a Kokeshi doll. A fifth hug changes the doll to a Kenyan boy holding an African drum. Each time, the “new” doll says Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday in its native language.

Natalie is so happy with her gift. She thanks Natelf before the elf returns to Santa’s sleigh and says, “See you next year!”

Learning about Christmas Around the Globe

This is a beautiful Christian Children’s book to teach children about Christmas celebrations around the globe. It clearly explains that Jesus is the first Christmas child and includes the Bible verse Luke 2:10-11 on the title page. The bright and colorful illustrations by Deborah Smith enhance the story and help children learn about different countries and how the birth of Christ is celebrated throughout the world.

The Publishing of Natelf

The author, Natalie Andrus, has carried this tale with her since childhood. In August, she contacted me at EABooks Publishing, hoping to publish it by Christmas. I was happy to help. Christian Children’s Author Crystal Bowman jumped in to help edit, and Deborah Smith created the fantastic illustrations. It was a tight timeline. However, the team at EA Books Publishing did what they do best. If you are ready to be a new Christian children’s author like Natalie and you have a story inside you, contact me. I would love to help you.

Natelf is now available on Amazon, and you should get a copy for your children this Christmas.

by Dawn Stephens

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