Behind the Magic of the Holidays
There’s a quiet kind of magic that lives in the background of Christmas. It’s the kind that doesn’t always get the spotlight, but without it, the season simply wouldn’t work. Long before Christmas Eve arrives, Mrs. Claus is busy keeping the North Pole running, tending to traditions, details, and moments that make the magic feel real. In many ways, she mirrors the role so many women play in their own households, especially during the holidays: organizing, nurturing, remembering, and holding it all together (with Scotch tape, if you’re lucky enough to remember where you put it.) As a mother of two young children, I feel this deeply—the responsibility, the tenderness, and the honor of creating the magic they’ll remember. That understanding of Mrs. Claus as an integral force behind the scenes is what drew me into learning more about the story and the women who brought Susanna Claus Saves Christmas to life.
After talking with the creators, the story felt even more magical. McKenna C. Moretz, a Wheeling native and mother of three, brings her hometown charm, artistic skill, and personal experiences to the illustrations. Jean-Marie R. Bralley, now based in Virginia, is a professional ballerina, ballet instructor and freelance writer. The two have been friends since their college days at Franciscan University of Steubenville, and this project fulfilled a decade-long dream to collaborate on a children’s book.
A Story Full of Heart and Holiday Magic
Susanna Claus Saves Christmas centers on Mrs. Claus, who manages the North Pole’s baking, gift-wrapping, wreath-making, and orchards, all while hosting carol sing-alongs. But when disaster threatens Santa’s Christmas Eve deliveries, Mrs. Claus must rely on her creativity, quick thinking, and heart to save the day—and bring something truly meaningful to children around the world.
The illustrations bring the story to life with warmth and whimsy. One especially touching detail appears near the end: a handwritten note from Mrs. Claus to a young boy named “Johnny.” The handwriting was inspired by Moretz’s late father, John, who passed away in 2021. She carefully recreated his handwriting for the illustration, adding a quiet, personal tribute woven into the story. “Dry eyes were not the theme of the project,” Moretz shared, reflecting how emotional it was to include this meaningful detail. On the opposite page, she also included a nod to Bralley’s family, creating a tender, shared moment of remembrance. “Love is in the details,” Moretz said, highlighting the care poured into every page.
Her favorite illustration, affectionately called “The Jig,” shows Santa dancing while Mrs. Claus laughs—a spontaneous sketch that perfectly captures the story’s playful energy.
From Ideas to Illustrations: Behind the Scenes
Both creators described the joy of collaboration. Bralley shared that writing the story from Mrs. Claus’s perspective allowed her to explore the holiday spirit in new ways: “I hope readers of all ages find joy and Christmas cheer in its pages and feel encouraged to share their own gifts and talents—just like Susanna Claus does.”
Moretz described how she worked to bring the character of Mrs. Claus to life visually: “We wanted her to look elegant, warm, and jolly. Finding the right look took time, but it was so rewarding to see her come alive on the page.”
The pair also noted how personal experiences influenced their work. Bralley, drawing on her background in ballet, found inspiration in movement and rhythm when writing certain scenes. Moretz’s love of calligraphy and handwriting gave her a unique way to incorporate meaningful personal touches, like the “Johnny” note.
Bring the Magic Home
Susanna Claus Saves Christmas is available now online and at a few other spots. Locally, Sarah’s on Main has some at their Main Street location and on their website if you need one quicker than a two-day shipping! This beautifully illustrated story is perfect for family reading, holiday gifts, or adding a touch of North Pole magic to your home. Pick up or order your copy today and let Mrs. Claus inspire joy, creativity, and Christmas cheer in your household!
