A New Holiday Classic

Even if you are not an avid reader, chances are you have heard of The Elf on the Shelf. This children's book, written by Carol Aebersold and Chanda Bell, has been read and loved by countless kids and their parents since it was published in 2005.

As Christmas approaches, I can't help but think of those little elves sitting on shelves, and other interesting places, in so many homes all over the world, inspiring youngsters to be on their best behavior. And as normal, my active imagination takes me to a related idea. I smirk as a type this connected thought and image of a mini version of Ted sitting on a shelf...of course, a BOOKshelf.

Silly idea? Yeah maybe. Don't worry, I'm not actually going to make an action sized figure of my podcast cohost. And I have no plans (today) of writing a book called Ted on a Bookshelf. But, on the off chance this quirky idea might inspire someone's reading, I'm sharing it with you.

From my perspective, we all need a bit of positive peer pressure from time to time. Ted provides that nudge when it comes to my reading. If I mention a book, he has been known to show up with it. He either logs into the Carroll County Public Library website to reserve a copy or sometimes even makes a trip to a bookstore to grab the book. Thoughts of reading a book come and go for me regularly, but Ted showing up with a book often transforms a casual idea into a commitment to reading.

So, next time a book grabs your eye, try picturing Ted giving you the look...the “you should read that book” look. Take the book home, just in case Ted is watching.

Have a favorite holiday book? Liking the Ted on a Bookshelf idea? Tell us about it at twosides2thestory@yahoo.com