Nurses, Doctors, First Responders, and more face the harsh reality that they may not spend Christmas with their families. For some, celebrating means enjoying the festivities on another day so everyone can be together. For the children who fear Santa may miss them because their family celebrates differently, Londa Shupe has penned A Special Request, A Secret Delivery (Blue Balloon Books; releasing November 26th, 2024).
This delightful children’s book features festive illustrations and engaging rhymes, specifically aimed at the children of parents employed in fields where holiday work is common. As a nurse herself, Londa wants to reassure all children that Santa will remember them.
With over twenty years of experience as a nurse and having raised four daughters, Londa understands how challenging it can be to be away from loved ones during the holidays. This personal experience motivated her to craft a story intended to form new traditions for these unique families.
We wanted to hear more from Londa so we sent her a few questions and she was kind enough to answer!
What is your book about?
“A Special Request, A Secret Delivery” is about a young girl who reaches out to Santa Claus to let him know that her family will not be together on Christmas Day. She requests he come on a different night, and she places an elf in the window to summon Santa to come that night. Of course, Santa can fulfill the request, and the family gets to wake up together to the presents he delivered. In addition to the story, there is also a seek and find in the back for the children to search for objects that represent some of the professions that necessitate the new schedule. The children can also color a “color-by-number” Elf that can be placed in the window or scan a QR code on the back of the book to download a full-color elf.
What made you want to write the book?
I have been a nurse for over 20 years. Although I knew my job was important, it was always difficult to be away from my young family on Christmas. I also noticed how difficult it was for families when a family member was in the hospital. So, I wanted to create a story that would offer a special tradition to families with similar schedules or situations. I wanted to give families a way to celebrate the story of Santa Claus together even when they have to be apart on Christmas Day.
Is this your first book?
Yes
What is your background in writing?
I am a nurse and have never written a book before. I was able to take my story to Blue Baloon Books and with their guidance, complete my dream of writing, “A Special Request, A Secret Delivery.”
What is the biggest thing you want people to take away from this book?
I hope this offers families, who have to deal with these unique circumstances, a way to have a special tradition for the holidays. The story of Santa Claus is about his generosity and selflessness. I want those people, who embrace that message by serving others, to have an opportunity to celebrate with their families together.
Where can people find it?
The book is available on the Blue Balloon Books website, Amazon, and Barnes and Noble.
