What were some of the challenges in bringing the story to life in Santa Knows?
Cynthia: Greg and I flip flopped a couple of times on how “high tech” the language should be to explain the logistics of Santa’s mission. We finally settled somewhere in the middle-fresh enough to seem 21st century, clear enough to seem classic and kid-friendly. Greg: The first draft we sent to editors was a little heavier on the high tech stuff, if I remember correctly. With our editor’s help, we were able to pare the story down to its essence. Cynthia: The title also was hard. For a long time, it was “Santa and the Snorklepuss” (Alfie and Noelle’s last name), but that was too long and seemed to suggest animal characters. Then we went with “Santa’s Secret,” which was better, but didn’t really capture the story. Finally author Anne Bustard, who is in our critique group, suggested Santa Knows. Could you describe your collaboration process? Cynthia: I’d done the first draft. After that, we handed it back and forth for each “clear swipe” through, and then we’d meet to discuss-reading alou
