Have you ever wondered who Santa was before he was . . . Santa? Or what the North Pole was like before the reindeer, the sleigh, and The Elf on the Shelf? In The Rise of Nicholas the Noble, the newest story from the creators of The Elf on the Shelf, families will discover the heroic origin of Santa Claus, who as a young boy was shipwrecked in the Arctic with his loyal dog, Barry.
This brand-new middle grade novel is filled with fantasy, friendship, and epic adventure. It’s perfect for independent readers ages 9-12 or for families looking to share a special story together this holiday season.
Santa’s Secret History, Finally Revealed
For generations, the North Pole has been a mystery. Now, for the first time ever, readers can journey into its past. The Rise of Nicholas the Noble reveals how Santa’s story began—not with a jolly man in red, but with a young boy who finds himself stranded in the Arctic, surrounded by magic, danger, and a destiny he never expected.
With the help of ancient elves, mysterious creatures, and his loyal Barry, Nicholas discovers a world few have ever seen: the land of One True North. There, he learns he is part of an ancient prophecy and he must decide whether he’ll rise to defend the Spirit of Christmas itself.
An Enchanted World in a Snowy Land
The world of The Rise of Nicholas the Noble is unlike any North Pole you’ve imagined. Yes, it’s wild, wintry, and magical, but a very real danger threatens One True North. Beneath its towering mountains lies a powerful secret: a magical shard of stone from the great Lumistella Star—what many call the Christmas Star—crashed to Earth long ago, bringing with it the Spirit of Christmas.
This stone powers the Scout Elves’ magic, gives Noorah her ability to pause time, and fills hearts around the world with the joy and generosity we feel all season long. But it’s also something that must be protected so that it does not fall into the hands of those who would harm it. In this story, readers meet the Luminicents—elves tasked with guarding that light and the same elves now known as Scout Elves—as dark forces rise to challenge them. And at the center of it all is Nicholas, whose journey will shape the future of Christmas forever.
A Classic Adventure for Any Time of Year
Written for ages 9-12, confident independent readers can easily enjoy the action on their own or if your child still enjoys cozy bedtime chapters with you by their side, The Rise of Nicholas the Noble is a longer read you can share and discuss together. With themes of bravery, hope, and self-discovery, it’s a story that sparks conversations and inspires imaginations.
Parents will appreciate the values woven throughout the story. Kids will love the thrilling adventure, magical creatures, and the boy-turned-hero at its heart. And fans of The Elf on the Shelf will be delighted to discover how this tale connects to the wider world of Santaverse—including the Scout Elves, Noorah, Bogies, and SnoBiggie yetis—while also introducing new and fantastical creatures like ice gnomes, ice giants, and even more beloved or fearsome creatures (including some true villains!)
For Those Navigating Doubts About Belief in Christmas Magic
Many families reach a point where children begin to ask big questions about Santa. The Rise of Nicholas the Noble offers an epic narrative that keeps the magic alive. As an origin story, the novel invites readers to step into the legend and wonder of Christmas—encouraging curiosity, imagination, and open-hearted belief.
This story can serve as a bridge for families with older children who still want to share in the magic and the ideals of Santa’s goodwill for all. It reinforces themes of kindness, courage, and choosing good in the face of doubt—all wrapped in an exciting adventure. It reminds readers that the greatest legends often began with an everyday person who had to make a brave choice.
Whether your child is still all-in or beginning to wonder, this story allows you to invite them into a meaningful, immersive narrative that preserves wonder, honors emotional truth, and becomes part of how they now see the world.
More Than a Book—A Doorway into the Santaverse
Many families know the Scout Elves who visit each holiday season. But The Rise of Nicholas the Noble opens the door to the deeper world of Santaverse—one filled with lore, legend, and heart. From Fisbee the narrator to the ancient elves of the One True North, this story offers a magical foundation for everything we believe about Santa and Christmas Spirit.
If you’re searching for meaningful holiday gifts, magical family traditions, or ways to encourage reading this season, this book is the perfect place to begin. It’s more than just a story. It’s a journey into the heart of the holiday.
Discover the enchanted characters of Santaverse and the world of The Rise of Nicholas the Noble!
Ready to Begin the Adventure?
The Rise of Nicholas the Noble is available for preorder (launching September 16, 2025) wherever books are sold. For magical family nights, holiday book clubs, or children ready to explore a world of wonder…
Step into the Santaverse. Discover where Santa’s story truly begins.
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