Elf Dust by Nancy E. Merrill is a sweet little Christmas story that adds a fun twist to the magic of Santa’s elves. The book follows the elves as they sneak into homes before Christmas to check whether kids have been naughty or nice. But they don’t just leave without a trace. They sprinkle a little “elf dust” behind, tiny sparkles of magic that let kids know the elves were there. It’s got all the makings of a holiday tradition; suspense, wonder, and just enough mystery to keep kids on their toes.

What I loved most about this children’s book is how it turns kids into little detectives. The idea that elves are hiding in their homes, leaving behind proof of their visits, is brilliant. The way the story builds up the excitement, first by describing how the elves work, then revealing their sneaky spying missions, and finally dropping the big hint about the dust, makes it feel like an adventure. I can just imagine kids racing around their living rooms, flipping over couch cushions and peeking under tables, searching for that magical dust.

The rhyme scheme is simple but catchy. It’s the kind of rhythm that makes reading aloud fun, and honestly, that’s a big win for bedtime stories. Some lines are particularly charming, like “They will leave a small trace, something only elves sprinkle. Like candy on ice cream, it’s a part of their twinkle.” That’s just adorable. The writing keeps things light and playful, never dragging, which is perfect for younger kids with short attention spans.

Colleen Sgroi’s art is soft, whimsical, and full of warmth. I loved how detailed the pages were. There are also little hidden details throughout the book (like lost elf slippers) that give kids even more to look for. I love when picture books encourage interaction beyond just reading, and this one absolutely nails that.

Elf Dust is a delightful pick for families looking to add a little extra magic to their Christmas traditions. It’s perfect for young kids who already love the idea of Santa’s elves and want to believe in their secret missions. If you’re a parent, teacher, or grandparent, this book is a surefire way to keep the holiday spirit alive, and maybe even start a new family tradition with some red and green glitter.

Pages: 32 | ISBN 978-1-62502-063-5