ALEX BHATTACHARJI

So, good news…I saw a dog today. Every book is a journey, and this one, THE BOOK OF BUDDY, has passed through the seven levels of the Candy Cane Forest, through the Sea of Swirly-Twirly Gumdrops, and then walked through the Lincoln Tunnel—and there are still a few miles to go. Along the way, I learned that the story behind ELF mirrors that of the movie: A sweet, big-hearted outsider finds its way to the most cynical of places, stays true to its innate innocence, wins over the doubters, and saves the day.
That unbridled optimism has always moved this often cynical son of a nutcracker. Even more than when the film became an improbable hit in 2003 or when I started writing, I’m convinced we need Buddy’s joy and kindness, and, with an imposter sitting on a throne of lies, a reminder of the power of being good for goodness’ sake. So I hope you’ll all play Santa and give yourself a copy as a present for ELF’s 25th birthday.
With major gratitude to my agent, Rick Richter @aevitas_creative my editor, Suzanne O’Neil; @hachetteus and @grandcentralpub; my manuscript readers, and, most of all, to the dozens of cast and crew and others involved with making this movie who shared their memories, drafts, pictures, anecdotes, and deep affection for ELF with me. You are all on the Nice List.