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L. Frank Baum’s Book of Santa Claus: The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus & A Kidnapped Santa Claus
Here in one volume are both of L. Frank Baum's Santa Claus stories: The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus, and A Kidnapped Santa Claus. In The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus, Baum gives us a glimpse into the magical history that surrounds the life story of Santa Claus. In A Kidnapped Santa Claus, we find out what happens when Santa is kidnapped shortly before Christmas.
86 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2002
18 people are currently reading
276 people want to read
About the author
L. Frank Baum
3,212 books2,771 followersalso wrote under the names:
* Edith van Dyne,
* Floyd Akers,
* Schuyler Staunton,
* John Estes Cooke,
* Suzanne Metcalf,
* Laura Bancroft,
* Louis F. Baum,
* Captain Hugh Fitzgerald
Lyman Frank Baum was an American author best known for his children's fantasy books, particularly The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, part of a series. In addition to the 14 Oz books, Baum penned 41 other novels (not including four lost, unpublished novels), 83 short stories, over 200 poems, and at least 42 scripts. He made numerous attempts to bring his works to the stage and screen; the 1939 adaptation of the first Oz book became a landmark of 20th-century cinema.
Born and raised in Chittenango, New York, Baum moved west after an unsuccessful stint as a theater producer and playwright. He and his wife opened a store in South Dakota and he edited and published a newspaper. They then moved to Chicago, where he worked as a newspaper reporter and published children's literature, coming out with the first Oz book in 1900. While continuing his writing, among his final projects he sought to establish a film studio focused on children's films in Los Angeles, California.
His works anticipated such later commonplaces as television, augmented reality, laptop computers (The Master Key), wireless telephones (Tik-Tok of Oz), women in high-risk and action-heavy occupations (Mary Louise in the Country), and the ubiquity of advertising on clothing (Aunt Jane's Nieces at Work).
* Edith van Dyne,
* Floyd Akers,
* Schuyler Staunton,
* John Estes Cooke,
* Suzanne Metcalf,
* Laura Bancroft,
* Louis F. Baum,
* Captain Hugh Fitzgerald
Lyman Frank Baum was an American author best known for his children's fantasy books, particularly The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, part of a series. In addition to the 14 Oz books, Baum penned 41 other novels (not including four lost, unpublished novels), 83 short stories, over 200 poems, and at least 42 scripts. He made numerous attempts to bring his works to the stage and screen; the 1939 adaptation of the first Oz book became a landmark of 20th-century cinema.
Born and raised in Chittenango, New York, Baum moved west after an unsuccessful stint as a theater producer and playwright. He and his wife opened a store in South Dakota and he edited and published a newspaper. They then moved to Chicago, where he worked as a newspaper reporter and published children's literature, coming out with the first Oz book in 1900. While continuing his writing, among his final projects he sought to establish a film studio focused on children's films in Los Angeles, California.
His works anticipated such later commonplaces as television, augmented reality, laptop computers (The Master Key), wireless telephones (Tik-Tok of Oz), women in high-risk and action-heavy occupations (Mary Louise in the Country), and the ubiquity of advertising on clothing (Aunt Jane's Nieces at Work).
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 22, 2015
I discovered this holiday gem while looking for other books written by L.Frank Baum, besides that well-known classic, of course. It is a fun, magical book. I really enjoyed how each aspect of Santa's giving of gifts was explained -- presents under the tree, stockings hung by the fireplace, how does Santa bring presents when there is no chimney? Little believers are sure to be charmed by this little treasure.
September 17, 2015
Enjoyed the history of Santa as told by Baum. Especially liked his explanation of why Christmas eve deliveries and the origin of stockings and trees. Kidnap story was short and sweet.
December 3, 2019
L. Frank Baum tells his own story of the origins of Santa Claus in the novel The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus. Plus, after the novel is his sort story, Santa Claus Kidnapped. I wouldn't say this is as good as Mr. Baum's Oz books, but it is still a very enjoyable read. Recommended to those who never lost their sense of wonder.
December 27, 2021
O livro "A vida e as aventuras do Papai Noel", como é de se esperar, conta a história do Papai Noel, como ele começou a fabricar brinquedos e se tornou quem ele é, tudo de uma maneira doce e leve, para crianças.
Ele foi um bebê abandonado na floresta, e o espiríto que cuidava da floresta não deixou que ele fosse morto por um animal, uma ninfa, Necile, com pena da criança, resolve adotá-la com a autorização das demais entidades da floresta.
A criança vai crescendo e aprendendo a respeitar todos os seres e o meio ambiente, sendo levado um dia a conhecer da onde ele veio e quem é seu povo, ao voltar para floresta, ele decide então partir e deixar sua marca no mundo, assim, como ele foi abandonado e salvo, resolve começar a alegrar as crianças.
Em uma noite de neve, onde estava entediado em sua cabana, acaba fabricando o primeiro brinquedo, que iria alegrar muitas e muitas crianças, e assim acaba fabricando-os e saindo fazer suas entregas.
Quando sua sacola fica cheia demais, ele pede ajuda as renas, para entregar os brinquedos mais longe, porém tem a condição de voltarem antes do sol raiar, pois as renas precisam trabalhar, eles perdem a hora por apenas 1 minuto, e por penalidade o Papai Noel só poderia pegá-las emprestada um único dia do ano, e assim nasce o dia de entregar presentes.
Conforme ele vai ficando mais velho, os espirítos da floresta decidem presenteá-lo com o manto da imortalidade, e vários animais começam a ajudá-lo na confecção dos presentes.
Ao longo do livro, o autor discute de forma sutil como o Papai Noel consegui interagir com o ambiente em que vive sem destruir nem poluir, e também se crianças ricas devem ganhar presentes também.
Toda a história é contada com uma grande dose de magia.
Ele foi um bebê abandonado na floresta, e o espiríto que cuidava da floresta não deixou que ele fosse morto por um animal, uma ninfa, Necile, com pena da criança, resolve adotá-la com a autorização das demais entidades da floresta.
A criança vai crescendo e aprendendo a respeitar todos os seres e o meio ambiente, sendo levado um dia a conhecer da onde ele veio e quem é seu povo, ao voltar para floresta, ele decide então partir e deixar sua marca no mundo, assim, como ele foi abandonado e salvo, resolve começar a alegrar as crianças.
Em uma noite de neve, onde estava entediado em sua cabana, acaba fabricando o primeiro brinquedo, que iria alegrar muitas e muitas crianças, e assim acaba fabricando-os e saindo fazer suas entregas.
Quando sua sacola fica cheia demais, ele pede ajuda as renas, para entregar os brinquedos mais longe, porém tem a condição de voltarem antes do sol raiar, pois as renas precisam trabalhar, eles perdem a hora por apenas 1 minuto, e por penalidade o Papai Noel só poderia pegá-las emprestada um único dia do ano, e assim nasce o dia de entregar presentes.
Conforme ele vai ficando mais velho, os espirítos da floresta decidem presenteá-lo com o manto da imortalidade, e vários animais começam a ajudá-lo na confecção dos presentes.
Ao longo do livro, o autor discute de forma sutil como o Papai Noel consegui interagir com o ambiente em que vive sem destruir nem poluir, e também se crianças ricas devem ganhar presentes também.
Toda a história é contada com uma grande dose de magia.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2020
I was interested and my expectations were set high at the beginning, but it fell flat. I thought the conversation with the demon of repentance had a lot of potential on the premise of evil for repentance and how Santa was exempt of it, but I wasn't satisfied with how it turned out.
Towards the end, an army was banded together to rescue Santa, but they didn't even get a chance to do it. Santa stumbled upon them during his escape, which made me question why this army was introduced to begin with.
Maybe, I'm being a little tough, it's not bad as a children story and maybe I'll change my tune when I'm read this to my nieces and nephews.
I'm a little ahead on my Christmas stories, but I was interested as I heard this story inspired 'A Nightmare Before Christmas'
Towards the end, an army was banded together to rescue Santa, but they didn't even get a chance to do it. Santa stumbled upon them during his escape, which made me question why this army was introduced to begin with.
Maybe, I'm being a little tough, it's not bad as a children story and maybe I'll change my tune when I'm read this to my nieces and nephews.
I'm a little ahead on my Christmas stories, but I was interested as I heard this story inspired 'A Nightmare Before Christmas'
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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February 24, 2025O livro narra a origem do Papai Noel, começando com sua infância, quando foi adotado por uma fada e viveu em uma floresta mágica. Ao crescer, ele decide conhecer o mundo humano e se encanta pelas crianças, especialmente aquelas que enfrentam dificuldades. Para trazer alegria a elas, começa a esculpir brinquedos de madeira e a distribuí-los. Com o tempo, ele se transforma no Papai Noel que conhecemos, enfrentando desafios e perigos enquanto tenta levar felicidade às crianças. O livro é ricamente ilustrado e apresenta reflexões sobre a evolução da humanidade, além de ser uma obra visualmente encantadora.
November 30, 2020
This book has aged poorly. 4 "races" of immortal beings?
It does explain many of the facets of modern Santa Claus lore. Origin of the term (name) Santa. His reindeer, sledge (yes, not called a sleigh), bags of toys, entry into houses. How it works with houses without fireplaces. Sadly, there is no discussion of the red suit with white fur edging.
Don't regret reading it. Now I can say I've experienced the L. Frank Baum's take on Santa. Just not thrilled.
It does explain many of the facets of modern Santa Claus lore. Origin of the term (name) Santa. His reindeer, sledge (yes, not called a sleigh), bags of toys, entry into houses. How it works with houses without fireplaces. Sadly, there is no discussion of the red suit with white fur edging.
Don't regret reading it. Now I can say I've experienced the L. Frank Baum's take on Santa. Just not thrilled.
December 26, 2019
I love L. Frank Baum's Oz series...but these two books didn't capture my imagination. I felt The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus was dated and a bit tedious. A Kidnapped Santa Claus was MUCH better - short, lively, and a bit fable-like.
July 17, 2020
So cute
I didn’t see the ending coming. Loved this version of the Fairy Santa Claus. I will read it to my grandchildren.
I didn’t see the ending coming. Loved this version of the Fairy Santa Claus. I will read it to my grandchildren.
December 15, 2020
Interesting take on the origin of Santa Claus.
February 26, 2021
This is a book I have read almost every year around the holiday season since it was gifted to me a little over a decade ago.
December 15, 2021
Esse livro é maravilhoso e os textos de apoio o deixaram melhor ainda.
December 16, 2021
Adorable book. I will never think of Santa the same way.
December 10, 2025
A different take on the story of Santa.
January 26, 2025
I hate the previous edition on my Hoopla download. The print is shaky, and pages repeat sometimes. I'm trying a different publisher.
December 21, 2022
This was a charming story about the life of Santa Claus. Kind of like a biography. I loved the story, it just felt warm and made you feel all the fuzzy feelings of Christmas. It also made me feel like I was reading a fantasy book from when I was a child.
December 28, 2016
"'Let him be called Claus,' answered Necile, 'for that means 'a little one.''
'Rather let him be called Neclaus' returned the Queen, 'for that will mean 'Necile's little one.'' (Some people have spelled this name Nicklaus and others Nicolas, which is the reason that Santa Claus is still known in some lands as St. Nicolas. But, of course, Neclaus is his right name, and Claus the nickname given him by his adopted mother, the fair nymph Necile.)"
"'You must pray to the good Santa Claus for forgiveness. He does not like naughty children, and, unless you repent, he will bring you no more pretty toys.'
But Santa Claus himself would not have approved this speech. He brought toys to the children because they were little and helpless, and because he loved them. He knew that the best of children were sometimes naughty, and that the naughty ones were often good. It is the way with children, the world over, and he would not have changed their natures had he possessed the power to do so."
"It was nearly morning when the deer stopped before the lonely tent of skins where the poor children lay asleep. Claus at once planted the bit of pine tree in the sand and stuck many candles on the branches. Then he hung some of his prettiest toys on the tree, as well as several bags of candies. It did not take long to do all this, for Santa Claus works quickly, and when all was ready he lighted the candles and, thrusting his head in at the opening of the tent, he shouted:
'Merry Christmas, little ones!'"
'Rather let him be called Neclaus' returned the Queen, 'for that will mean 'Necile's little one.'' (Some people have spelled this name Nicklaus and others Nicolas, which is the reason that Santa Claus is still known in some lands as St. Nicolas. But, of course, Neclaus is his right name, and Claus the nickname given him by his adopted mother, the fair nymph Necile.)"
"'You must pray to the good Santa Claus for forgiveness. He does not like naughty children, and, unless you repent, he will bring you no more pretty toys.'
But Santa Claus himself would not have approved this speech. He brought toys to the children because they were little and helpless, and because he loved them. He knew that the best of children were sometimes naughty, and that the naughty ones were often good. It is the way with children, the world over, and he would not have changed their natures had he possessed the power to do so."
"It was nearly morning when the deer stopped before the lonely tent of skins where the poor children lay asleep. Claus at once planted the bit of pine tree in the sand and stuck many candles on the branches. Then he hung some of his prettiest toys on the tree, as well as several bags of candies. It did not take long to do all this, for Santa Claus works quickly, and when all was ready he lighted the candles and, thrusting his head in at the opening of the tent, he shouted:
'Merry Christmas, little ones!'"
December 21, 2015
An odd book, mainly because it seems to have been written for children yet doesn't seem like it would appeal to them. It's more of a meditative, Tolkien-esque version of Santa's life, having him raised by a nymph in a fairy forest. When he finally discovers humanity, he decides to care for children, which is certainly a nice sentiment but seems rather an adult way of looking at it, instead of a children's story. Also, the book has remarkably little to do with Christmas. The only mention is a deadline of Christmas Eve, and that was because it was a deadline it was thought he couldn't make. It's like writing a story about a Jack O'Lantern and removing almost every trace of Halloween.
What made me give it four stars instead of three, though, was the inclusion of the short story "A Kidnapped Santa Claus." I'd come across this before online, and had read it aloud to the kids. In fact, it's because this story is so wonderful that I bought the book in the first place, hoping the rest of the stories were as charming.
The rest of the book is entertaining, but not as good children's stories. Still, if you're a fan of Baum, worth reading.
What made me give it four stars instead of three, though, was the inclusion of the short story "A Kidnapped Santa Claus." I'd come across this before online, and had read it aloud to the kids. In fact, it's because this story is so wonderful that I bought the book in the first place, hoping the rest of the stories were as charming.
The rest of the book is entertaining, but not as good children's stories. Still, if you're a fan of Baum, worth reading.
January 6, 2012
This was a very interesting lecture about how the fiction literature builded on myths and legends, adding and mixing elemets from other cultures. I am not quite an expert in this domain, but I believe that most of the mythical elements borrowed are from Irish folklore, or a similar keltic culture.
My copy of this book is in romanian.
My copy of this book is in romanian.
January 14, 2013
This book is so magical. It's the story about how Santa first started out in life. It is a fun Christmas book to read!
July 25, 2013
read it every year at Christmas time.
September 12, 2016
Santa Claus is coming to tooown. <3
December 13, 2015
Santa explained.
Santa explained. L. Frank Baum, master of words, never fails to enlighten, entertain, and impress. I recommend this book to all non-believers.
Santa explained. L. Frank Baum, master of words, never fails to enlighten, entertain, and impress. I recommend this book to all non-believers.
March 29, 2016
I have enjoyed this book practically every year since I was young when my parents would read it to me. Fun to have a Jewish take (Baum is Jewish as I recall) on a nominally Christian character.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews