Grandfather Christmas: The First Christmas by Joseph Guthrie

The Secret Scrolls Collection, Book II

Experience the Wonder of Santa’s First Christmas in Book II of this Delightful Holiday Series

Traverse City, MI–After writing The Journey, the first book in The Secret Scrolls Collection (Mission Point Press, October 2024), Joseph Guthrie set it aside for a year. But when he overheard his young daughter Lillia tell someone that it was her favorite Christmas story, he knew he had to publish it—and continue the tale. Surging with creativity after the short hiatus, he wrote Grandfather Christmas: The First Christmas—Book II of The Secret Scrolls Collection—available for presale on July 8, as well as The Story of St. Nicholas, the third book in the trilogy, which is currently in development.

The Secret Scrolls Collection, Book II: Grandfather Christmas: The First Christmas

The First Christmas finds Nicholas—no longer a young teen—joyfully reunited with his loving parents, Theophane and Nonna, after being separated for nearly fifty years. They share with him the incredible adventure they undertook to bring the Christmas Spirit to life, especially excited to tell Nicholas about the Pinefolk, small elf-like creatures with magical abilities. Together, the three prepare for the most wondrous night the world has ever seen: Santa’s very first Christmas. Guided by his father’s wisdom, Nicholas steps into the role of Santa Claus. Joined by reindeer, woodland creatures, and the Pinefolk, the loving family creates the annual tradition that will be passed down through generations.

Guthrie shared his experience of creating The Secret Scrolls Collection. “When I sat down after a year to put finishing touches on The Journey, the next two books literally flew out of me in one sitting. It came so naturally that I decided to create a trilogy. The books provide the full background to the Northwind, who urged Theophane and Nonna to vanish and follow Star of the North to an unknown destination; Skipper, a magnificent and wise reindeer who becomes their trusted travel companion; and the Pinefolk.”

Timeless, Magical, & Heartwarming

Born and raised in Michigan where an old-fashioned white Christmas is truly magical, Guthrie has been gratified by readers’ feedback that “the story feels like it has always been there—even though it’s new, it feels timeless.” That was intentional. Guthrie’s narrative approach, paired with original watercolor illustrations, sets his work apart from more contemporary holiday stories. Given that he developed The Secret Scrolls Collection in response to his daughter’s curiosity about the origins of Christmas, Guthrie has been especially touched by parents who have shared how much their children love the story and ask to have it read to them. “That was very heartwarming, to hear it’s a requested bedtime story,” Guthrie said.

Guthrie is especially proud of his young collaborators. Shay Gall, just graduating high school, has returned as the illustrator. “He just keeps getting better and better,” Guthrie said. “I give him just a bit of direction for each scroll and he literally creates the intricate visuals as I imagine them.” Also returning is Lillia, who has just finished her freshman year of high school. “I call her my creative director as I run everything by her for final approval. Illustrations, book design, even final reviews of the stories. She’s been a huge help and it’s been great fun to work on the books together,” Guthrie shared.

The Author

Joseph Guthrie has felt a deep connection to the Christmas Spirit since his childhood on a farm. From an early age, he eagerly participated in holiday traditions, from decorating the house to selecting gifts for loved ones. These early experiences inspired the stories in this collection. Now a devoted father, Joseph has witnessed the power of the Christmas Spirit within his own family and feels compelled to share it with the world. The stories of Grandfather Christmas and The Secret Scrolls Collection come at a time when their message is needed most.

The Illustrator

Shay Gall, a gifted young artist from Northern Michigan, brings a unique perspective to the illustrations in this collection. His artistic journey began early, shaped by the influence of his artist parents. His work on the stories of Grandfather Christmas and The Secret Scrolls Collection involved meticulous study of the text and the secret scrolls, and he embraces the challenge of bringing these enchanting tales to life. Shay is dedicated to ensuring that each illustration captures the magic and spirit of Christmas, making every page a delight for readers young and old. 

The Book

Grandfather Christmas: The First Christmas, The Secret Scrolls Collection: Book II

Written by Joseph Guthrie, Illustrated by Shay Gall

32 pages, 8.5 x 11 inches, Color

Juvenile Fiction, Holidays & Celebrations, Christmas & Advent, Legends, Myths, Fables, Fantasy & Magic

ISBN: 978-1-961302-82-2, $26.95 (Hardcover)

ISBN: 978-1-965278-66-6, $16.95 (Softcover)

Mission Point Press, October 23, 2025

Copies are available for preorder at Bookshop.org, Amazon, and other online retailers. On its October 23 publication date, it will be available for purchase wherever books are sold. For information or to arrange for signings and events, contact the author at grandfatherchristmas.com or admin@grandfatherchristmas.com 

Also available

Grandfather Christmas: The Journey, The Secret Scrolls Collection: Book 1

Written by Joseph Guthrie, Illustrated by Shay Gall

32 pages; 8.5 x 11 inches; Color

Juvenile Fiction, Holidays & Celebrations, Christmas & Advent, Legends, Myths, Fables, Fantasy & Magic

ISBN: 978-1-965278-60-4, $26.95 (Hardcover)

ISBN: 978-1-965278-59-8, $16.95 (Softcover)

October 15, 2024

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