Elf on the Shelf: A Beloved Christmas Tradition

The Elf on the Shelf is a 2005 American children's picture book written by Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell. Illustrated by Coë Steinwart, it tells the story of how Santa knows who is naughty or nice, with the help of scout elves who visit children from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve.

Originating from a family tradition in Georgia, the elf hides in different spots around the house each morning, creating an interactive hide-and-seek game. Children love it because it adds a sense of magic and excitement to the holiday season.