Elf Chloe's Surprise

A beautiful rhyming picture book for young children that sparks conversations about reducing waste, repairing toys and giving pre-loved presents — at any time of year, not just Christmas.
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charlotte mason-curl with book elf chloe's surprise

The blurb

It’s summer in Lapland, and the elves are excited to be back to work. But when Elf Chloe makes a shocking discovery about the toys they’ve made before, everything changes. 

Could it be time to rethink the gifts they give?

“I’m just one elf, I thought, what can I do? And then I remembered, there’s all of you too!”

Is it good?

"I wish this book had been around when my kids were little! Elf Chloe’s Surprise is such a great way to introduce the idea of re-use, wasting less, and more thoughtful consumption to both children and adults alike.”
jen gale
Jen Gale
Author & Founder, Sustainableish
"Elf Chloe's Surprise does a very important job of opening an opportunity for discussion about the value of things, which is different to the cost and does not depend on newness. Congratulations on finding a way to bring this hugely important concept to the youngest people and their communities. I hope that this will sit on the shelves of every library and primary school."
Anna Kilpatrick
Anna Kilpatrick
Not Needing New
"I have just read your story and if I were still a Headteacher I would be inviting you into my school in a heartbeat!”
Alison hooper
Alison Hooper
Climate Actions Schools Coordinator at CDEC
“A joyful and timely story that gently shines a light on the growing issue of “too much stuff” in our lives. For anyone concerned about how much we are all consuming, I highly recommend reading Elf Chloe's Surprise to your children."
ellie jackson
Ellie Jackson
Author of Wild Tribe Heroes Books
"A charming, fast-paced rhyming story that captures young readers’ attention while gently encouraging them to think about reducing toy waste. With practical tips on reusing, repairing, and upcycling, it promotes more mindful, sustainable choices. A thoughtful and inspiring read."
edd moore
Edd Moore
Climate Education Consultant, Educator, Author.
"A lovely, much-needed story to help us all think twice before buying new.”
kate hall
Kate Hall
Author & Founder, The Full Freezer
“An absolute joy to read from beginning to end. Charlotte explores the issue of waste and the importance of sustainable practices in a thoughtful, gentle and engaging way. This is a book every child should read and one I will certainly gift to many.”
amy ward
Amy Ward
Amy’s Budgeting
"What a joyful discovery of rescuing, renewing and regifting toys. A must-read for all parents and children alike; and a beautiful guide on more conscious consumerism to help each of us save money and reduce waste."
rachel arthur
Rachel Arthur
UNEP
"Elf Chloe is an inspirational character who introduces the concept of 'taking responsibility' to young readers well. Charlotte raises an important issue through a likeable story that will make young readers think about their environmental impact and decision-making. For primary schools, the theme of the story fits in well with Eco Schools and recent DFE climate & sustainability focuses too."
Lucy Middleton
Headteacher
"This is an incredibly important message and so great for them to receive it from a book and not just from parents telling them. Absolutely love it. Every primary school should have several copies. I'll be gifting a copy to our school and asking that they read it in assembly."
Richard Ashby
Amazon buyer
"Wonderful story teaching children about sustainability through toys. Fun, engaging and beautifully illustrated. Love the nod to Mrs Claus too, the real boss!"
Joely Martin
Sustainability Officer
"A fantastic book which my 5-year old and 3-year old loved. It has already given my little girl some ideas on how we can gift without being wasteful. And spoiler alert, Mrs Claus is the best boss according to my daughter. Artwork is also stunning and it’s a book that can be read all year round with how it’s written."
Amy E
Amazon buyer
"Great little book to encourage kids (and grown ups) to gift in a more thoughtful and sustainable way."
Alice H
Amazon buyer​
"Wonderful book, beautifully illustrated. The kids (aged 6 and 4) really enjoyed it. Would highly recommend."
Josie C
Amazon buyer​
"Superb book which the kids love. It conveys a very valuable message about re-using things rather than sending old toys to landfill. If we start educating children at a young age, the idea of horrible nasty but new plastic toys will die out. Very well illustrated too. A valuable lesson for the future."
Gillian A
Amazon buyer​

About Elf Chloe’s Surprise

Elf Chloe’s Surprise is a heartwarming, beautifully illustrated picture book for young children.

It sparks conversations about reducing waste, repairing toys and giving pre-loved presents — at any time of year, not just Christmas.

Perfect for families and educators who want to talk to their little ones about caring for the planet, this read-aloud rhyming story shows that even the smallest voice can make a big difference. 

At the back of the book, you’ll find discussion questions and practical tips for conscious gifting — making it as useful for grown-ups as it is enjoyable for children.

Age: 2-6 year olds

Written by: Charlotte Mason-Curl

Illustrated by: Leanne Coelho

Themes touched on: Waste, recycling, repair, conscious and pre-loved gifting, teamwork, problem solving, female leaders, gifting, birthdays and Christmas. 

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