THE BIG SECRET

Boorn’s debut children’s book brings the legend of Santa Claus to life through clever interpretation, alluring illustrations and skilled storytelling.

An initial disclaimer warns, “If you still LOVE Santa Claus and can’t wait for him to get to YOUR HOUSE on Christmas Eve, CLOSE THIS BOOK NOW!” The author goes on to deconstruct the myth of Santa Claus and its relationship to the concept of magic throughout history. Boorn divides mysterious phenomena into two types of magic: that which is visible (the changing of the seasons and the spectrum of colors) and that which is invisible, such as “Joy, Generosity, Gratitude, and Kindness.” As people began to understand visible magic, she writes, it spurred the study of science. Invisible magic, however, retained more mystical associations, and Boorn places religious beliefs, and the legend of Santa, in this category. The book suggests that people are at their best during the holiday season and pays special attention to celebration, generosity, love and compassion (“These ACTIONS were the first real magic created in the world”). The legend of Santa continues, she writes, because parents pass on these ideals to their children through fables. Although Santa himself is a myth, Boorn asserts, “the magic his legend creates every year is real!” This book, aimed at members of the “Big Kids’ Club,” addresses wonderfully universal ideals and skillfully adapts myth-based ideas into a code of kindness for all ages. Boorn approaches her audience as knowledgeable and understanding—adult enough to know The Big Secret—and suggests ways that older children can prolong the magic in various ways, such as assisting parents with putting little ones to bed on Christmas Eve. Beautiful illustrations, reminiscent of illuminated manuscripts, strengthen the sweet message.

A book that families will look forward to revisiting each holiday season.