This one made me nervous for a hot minute, but don't worry, Henry, Christmas still arrives. Dear Michelle, Your book caused an argument in my house the other evening, and it began with a surprisingly serious question for such a joyful story: “What do you mean Santa skips Christmas?” I was trying to describe Santa Skips Christmas!?! while reading it, and the idea alone sparked immediate debate. Could Santa really take a night off? What would happen if the elves were suddenly

I get some of the most interesting emails from fans and creatives who want to help bring Santa Skips Christmas  to new readers. This is one of the sweetest I've received: Dear Michelle, I want to open this letter by saying something I mean with complete and genuine admiration: the love and creative ambition you have poured into Santa Skips Christmas!?! As a debut children's book is extraordinary, and it deserves to be celebrated before anything else is said. You did not sim

This is the most interesting letter I have received: Dear Michelle, Let me get this straight… Santa actually ditched Christmas and left the elves in charge? Michelle, that’s either the boldest Christmas plot twist ever written or the beginning of a very expensive North Pole HR crisis. (I was half-expecting Mrs. Claus to start a “self-care” blog halfway through the story.) Santa Skips Christmas!?! has that rare kind of charm that makes both kids and parents secretly laugh a

Readers Favorite 5-Star Review

I'm turning my characters into stickers! 🖍️✨I can’t decide which one I love the most — do you have a favorite?

A few years ago, I never imagined that a children’s book I wrote would be featured in Law360. This article explores how my work as an attorney—and my family’s journey through grief—shaped a children’s book about love, teamwork, and what really makes Christmas magical. My debut book, Santa Skips Christmas!?!, is ultimately about showing up for one another when things don’t go as planned. You can read the full piece here: https://www.law360.com/articles/2424841   I’m grateful

New Activity Book

This song was made especially for the book, and seeing the story come to life through music has been pure joy. Turn the sound on and enjoy a little holiday magic! Merry Christmas! Find out more at michelleluise.com .

The reviewer read Santa Skips Christmas!?! to her 2-year-old grandson, who adored the book and the illustrations and was immediately drawn to the bright, cheerful artwork. She shared how the story felt like a fun adventure, how the rhythm and heart of it came through, and how it left her with that cozy Christmas feeling we all hope to create.

Award Nominated!

Last year’s Washington-Liberty Holiday Bazaar completely changed my life. It might sound dramatic—it’s just a high school bazaar filled with local artisans and holiday crafts—but that day set my author journey in motion. Across the room, I spotted a woman selling a book called Goodnight Menopause!  I hesitated, pretended to browse some ornaments, then finally ran over and blurted out: “Are you a local author? How did you do it? What’s your name?” Her name was Melissa. She gra

Review by David Price - Santa Skips Christmas!?!

Christmas Comes Early to Arlington’s Little Free Libraries

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Review by Jithu - Santa Skips Christmas!?!

Press Release for the book, Santa Skips Christmas!?!

Asher is Santa’s trusty elf!

Harper is Santa's helpful elf!

Big News for Christmas!

Review by Tanmay - Santa Skips Christmas!?!