A Little North of Everywhere

191 pp. "A Christmas tale of Mr. Nick (Santa Claus), his wife Crystal, an explorer named Admiral Trek and a helpful gnome named St. Elmo. In their ""brave new world"", mechanistic, North Pole environment, the walls of Santa's igloo are tinted, PM's (Perpetual Motions) run around making toys and performing vital services, a dish breaker breaks dishes and reforms them. Life is too smooth for Crystal though -- she feels the lack of emotion and love from the Santa who makes all the children in the world happy. Upon Admiral Trek's arrival -- and his subsequent passes, Santa learns what jealousy means, and he and Crystal reach an agreement. Trek is sent on his way. A sophisticated twist to a Christmas spirit story which parents may chuckle over and teenagers take in their stride. But not for family sharing. To be jacketed in a bright Christmas wrapping, and in format appropriate for that plus item in the stocking."