Julia and the Northern Lights

Julia has always dreamed of helping Santa deliver gifts. But when she finds herself left behind on Christmas Eve, an unexpected magical journey begins. Guided by a mysterious boy named Ola, Julia is led toward the Queen of the Northern Lights—who holds the key to saving Christmas. To reach her, Julia must choose between staying safe at home or stepping bravely into the unknown.

With dreamlike illustrations and a heartfelt message about courage, dreams, and the power of working together, Julia and the Northern Lights is a moving tale for both children and adults.

Excerpt from the book:

“Her brother, Jul, once told her that if you thought about something hard enough, it might just come true.”

From a review:

“It’s always a joy when Cathrine L. Wilhelmsen releases a new children’s book. Her earlier titles have all been warm, wise, and full of heart—and this one is no exception. Once again, Wilhelmsen takes children’s feelings and experiences seriously while offering adults valuable insights into both parenting and growing up. A book about Christmas and Santa might sound cozy and magical—and it is—but Julia and the Northern Lights is so much more. What I loved most is the beautiful contrast between the magical and the realistic woven throughout this story.”

About the book

Julia has waited for this night her whole life: finally, she is old enough to help her father—Santa Claus himself—deliver presents on Christmas Eve.

But after a series of mishaps, Julia is left behind once again. Saddened that she can’t help her father this year either, she also worries that with less and less snow every winter, her father will struggle more than ever to reach every child in time.

The night takes an unexpected turn when she meets Ola, a boy carrying a message from the Queen of the Northern Lights. The Queen may hold the answer to Santa’s troubles—but Julia must travel through the dark and frozen land of the North to meet her.

Will Julia choose to stay in safety, or will she dare to step into the unknown to help her father?

Filled with soft, magical illustrations, Julia and the Northern Lights is a tender story about courage, choices, and working together to make the world a better place. And if you’ve ever wondered why Santa’s sleigh can fly—you’ll find the answer here.

Themes

At its heart, Julia and the Northern Lights is about remembering who you are, believing in the power of dreams, and realizing that you don’t have to be big to make a meaningful difference. When we slow down and reconnect with our own creativity and playfulness, we can see the world with fresh eyes—and perhaps find new and better solutions to the challenges we face.

Available in hardcover and eBook, both in English and Norwegian edition.

Written by Cathrine L. Wilhelmsen, with illustrations by Christoffer Paulsen.