Emma and the Reindeer

by Emma Gallagher, Linda Mansfield

“Emma and the Reindeer” is a novel for kids ages 8-12 that uses the magic of Christmas to promote environmentalism!

It follows 11-year-old Emma Gallagher, who receives an unexpected her 15th great-grandmother, Grandma Hazel — an elf straight from Santa’s North Pole! With Christmas at risk due to climate change affecting the reindeer’s food supply that allows them to fly, Emma is chosen for an urgent mission: write a children’s book to inspire kids worldwide to quit procrastinating and make lifestyle changes to help the environment. Whisked to the North Pole, Emma interviews Santa's reindeer, each offering eco-friendly tips. This heartwarming adventure blends magic, humor, and a call to action, encouraging young readers to believe in their power to make a difference and save Christmas and the Earth!

133 pages, Paperback

Published February 14, 2025

Reviews

[Erin Cataldi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun middle grade read that will encourage kids to care about their environment using the spirit of Christmas. One ordinary day, Emma is working on her homework when a small woman with red and green hair pops up on her bed. At only two feet, she is small and dainty and full of spunk. She introduces herself as Emma's great great grandmother who lives with Santa. She tells Emma that she has been chosen by Santa to help write a book on environmentalism. Things are getting dire at the North Pole as the reindeer are struggling to find food to eat. Grandmother Hazel transports Emma to the North Pole so she can interview the Reindeer, meet Santa, and see for herself what Climate Change is doing. Emma is aghast and vows to write a book that will help children turn climate change around. A fun concept and I loved all the reindeer. What a unique idea for a book!

[Judith Kouba · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a charming story well written for readers of all ages that is a gentle, but poignant reminder we all have a responsibility to every living creature on this planet. As an animal lover, the use of the voices of the Reindeer and Isabella to tell the importance of the message truly touched my heart. This is a book that your children can read not only at Christmas, but at any time of the year to reiterate the need for learning, understanding, caring, kindness, acceptance, family and small actions net big results in this beautiful world of ours.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well done! The words were beyond descriptive and truly painted a detailed picture of Santa's magical kingdom. Isabella was the star of the show for me. She sold the whole story. Tears pooled. I love that both fiction and fact were interlaced to bring awareness to such an important issue, as well as spark the magic of Christmas.

[Lee Anne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is delightful! The story of Emma and her time at the North Pole gives children enough information to allow their imagination to fly - so like Santa's reindeer! The personalities of the reindeer are exceptionally well though out and the details of the Santa's village are charming! It supports the importance of taking care of the environment and how we as humans effect the world around us. It inspires kids to have a voice! Great read!

[Susan Wever · Rating 5 out of 5]

The young heroine learns about the effects of climate change from a very unlikely source! An entertaining and informative read. I highly recommend it.

[Chris Spangle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so well written, and my kids loved the story. Thank you Linda!