
It’s a question that sparks wonder, curiosity, and giggles. Now, in the enchanting new picture book How Old Is Santa Claus? by Chanda A. Bell, young readers can follow one Scout Elf’s humorous quest to find the answer. Packed with laughter, adventure, and holiday sparkle, this Christmas picture book from The Lumistella Company and HarperCollins Children’s Books is perfect for children ages 3–8 and makes a delightful addition to family holiday traditions.
A Whimsical Christmas Story for Children Ages 3–8
Pippin Snowdae’s Christmas Eve Adventure
On Christmas Eve, the Scout Elves of the Kingdom of the One True North are working harder than ever. In the Mail Room Grotto, Pippin Snowdae is reading through last-minute letters when one arrives from Sofi, a curious six-year-old: How old is Santa Claus?
Tired of giving the usual answer—“Santa is timeless, ageless, and eternally young at heart”—Pippin decides this time he’ll discover the truth. His determination sets him off on a magical adventure through snow-covered hills, grottoes, and mountains, racing to answer Sofi’s question before Christmas morning.


Friends in the Kingdom of the One True North
Along his journey, readers meet an unforgettable cast of characters:

Pippin Snowdae, a determined Scout Elf, whose curiosity and playful spirit drive the adventure forward

Hollie, the cheerful Mail Sorter, who encourages Pippin to begin his search to discover Santa’s true age

Barry the Saint Bernard and Noorah the magical arctic fox, Santa’s loyal companions, who suggest asking Scout Elf Fisbee

Playful friends like Little Grunt the SnoBiggie yeti, a tiny alicorn, and the furry bogie Zaspar

Hollerdon, an elder Scout Elf, who chuckles as Pippin asks if Santa is older than dinosaurs

Fisbee, the very first reporting Scout Elf, offers humor and points Pippin toward further answers
The Magic of Asking Big Questions
Though Pippin never learns Santa’s exact age, he discovers something more valuable: the joy of curiosity and imagination. In his letter back to Sofi, he concludes that Santa is older than pirates, knights, and dragons—but not quite as old as dinosaurs. The mystery itself is part of the wonder of Christmas.

What Is Santaverse?
The story of How Old Is Santa Claus? is part of the larger Santaverse, the interconnected universe of stories created by The Lumistella Company. Santaverse is not a location, but a collection of tales that expand the traditions families know and love through The Elf on the Shelf® and beyond.

At the heart of this book is the Kingdom of the One True North, the magical home where Scout Elves, reindeer, and wondrous creatures live and protect the Spirit of Christmas. For children, it’s a rare chance to see the North Pole as they’ve always dreamed it, filled with laughter, adventure, and timeless magic.
A Christmas Book Designed for Young Readers
Why Picture Books Matter
How Old Is Santa Claus? is written especially for children ages 3–8, making it an ideal early reader book or read-aloud.
Picture books like this:
- Strengthen literacy skills through text paired with vivid illustrations.
- Encourage cognitive growth with story sequencing and problem-solving.
- Build emotional connections by addressing questions children themselves may have wondered.

Supporting Literacy, Curiosity, and Emotional Growth
By weaving humor and mystery with heartfelt lessons, the book sparks curiosity and models how asking questions can be as magical as finding answers.
The Perfect Family Holiday Read-Aloud Tradition
Cozy Storytime Memories for Christmas Eve
Families can gather together, just as Pippin gathers answers, to share laughter and wonder. With lively dialogue and colorful illustrations, this holiday read-aloud book creates joyful family moments that turn into lasting traditions.

Why Reading Together Builds Bonds and Traditions
Shared stories foster closeness, encourage conversation, and build memories that children carry for a lifetime.
How Christmas Books Spark Imagination and Wonder
From Pirates to Dragons to Dinosaurs: Santa in Every Era
Pippin imagines Santa as a swashbuckler, a knight with dragons, and even a sleigh-driver pulled by dinosaurs. These playful daydreams invite children to stretch their own imaginations.
Encouraging Social-Emotional Learning Through Stories
Stories like this teach children patience with mystery, confidence in asking questions, and joy in discovery, which are all key parts of social-emotional growth.

“On Thrasher, on Crasher, on Talon and Tailwing…“
A New Classic for the Holidays

Why Families Will Treasure How Old Is Santa Claus?
With memorable characters, playful storytelling, and the magical setting of the Kingdom of the One True North, this book is destined to become a holiday favorite.
A Christmas Gift That Lasts for Years
Perfect as a gift, for classroom storytime, or cozy nights by the fire, How Old Is Santa Claus? is a book families will return to year after year.
How Old Is Santa Claus? is available now wherever books are sold. Bring home this enchanting new story and step into Santaverse, the enchanted world of Santa Claus!