Books / Children's literature

Cover of The Spirit of Santa by Jesse Kuhn

Children's literature · Ages 4–9

The Spirit of Santa

A 48-page illustrated picture book about the Santa conversation — how families can keep wonder alive while being honest. Ideal for ages 4–9 to read together, and a story children can grow into: first for the wonder, then, as the questions come, for the meaning underneath.

On a winter night, two girls are snuggled up with their dad when one of them asks a question. What follows is a story about generosity given without recognition, light carried into the darkest part of the year, and the tales families hand down across generations.

Author & illustratorJesse Kuhn
PublisherTorchbearer Press
Format48 pages, 8.5 × 8.5 in, full premium color
Softcover$24.99 · ISBN 978-1-971789-14-9
Hardcover$34.99 · ISBN 978-1-971789-15-6
Kindle$2.99 · ASIN B0HPQ5FRTW

Read the complete book free Buy the print edition

Free reading is available through December 31, 2026 at spiritofsantaproject.com/read. Printed editions are optional.

What readers say

“The Spirit of Santa by Jesse Kuhn had such a beautiful message. It was about kindness, generosity, and keeping the magic of Christmas alive. The writing is gentle and thoughtful without being difficult for kids to understand.”

Jennifer Senick, Readers’ Favorite — 5 stars, November 2, 2026

“The Spirit of Santa gave me the same warm, hopeful feeling I’ve carried with me since childhood. It’s a beautiful reminder of why I can still say, even as an adult, ‘I believe.’”

Sara, early reader

“I love that this gives a purpose for why we have Santa as a symbol and how it doesn’t have to be about betrayal. It can be about hope, curiosity, and wonder.”

Shae, early reader

“I wish this book was around 10 years ago. This would have been perfect for friends who wanted to celebrate Christmas with their little girls but didn’t know how to make the tradition their own.”

Kristina Lozon-Kimling, ARC reader

Visit the book’s own website → · Press kit →