Elves Up North by L.L. Walters is a children’s story book meant to be read aloud to young kids. Elves Up North is designed in an interactive way so that children can participate throughout the reading of this book via words, and actions, even to the point of changing the story itself. The book starts with a brief summary of how to read this interactive book with its yes/no questions and the various “options” presented throughout the book for plot selection. The story then begins with an introduction to Maestro, an old wizard who needs help with one of the elves, named Castor, living in Santa’s Secret Village in the North. The story begins when the helpers go to Santa’s village and along with such characters as Misty the Mouse, Ren Deer, Ginger Breadman, and of course the Elves and Santa himself, they manage to find and recover the lost spirits of Castor the Elf.

Elves Up North by L.L. Walters is not a typical children’s book in the sense that it actively encourages and prompts readers and children to act out the story, interact with it, and help shape it. I found this format to be intriguing and it may be helpful to do this with a group of kids who can then act or play out the characters and plot together. The story and writing are quite fun and engaging. My only suggestion would be that perhaps the book would benefit from some cute and colorful illustrations to go along with the story. Overall, this is a fun, entertaining Christmas read that encourages children to use their imaginations.

Does your child like fantasy stories? Have they ever wanted to become one of the characters in the stories that they read? Have they ever wanted to interact closely with the characters in their favorite books? Well, in Elves Up North by L.L. Walters, your child will not only be able to participate in this interactive book about elves, mice, The Maestro and others at Santa’s Secret Village, but they will get a chance to craft their own adventure. In this book, children are allowed three options in how they navigate through the story. This book is more than just a children’s story; it's an educational resource that will stimulate their lives while enhancing their cognitive skills.

I saw this book as an excellent learning tool and, despite the fact that it centers around Christmas, it will allow your child the ability to learn about choices, how to make decisions and to become a part of their life’s outcome. As they read the story, The Maestro proposes various actions, introduces games and ask questions of your child. In the book he may point to them and ask if they want to help, wave a magic wand, or open a door. Each step and option that a child takes helps them to create their own story while enhancing their creativity and imagination. This book not only focuses on the elements of Christmas with a twist, but with it your child can also improve their developmental skills.