When Paul Stevens was growing up in Brighton Le Sands he wanted to do many things in his life but writing a children's book about Santa Claus wasn't on his radar.
Now former professional NRL player turned Pastor, Stevens has written a children's picture book to teach children and their parents about the real-life story of Santa Claus. As well as the reasons for many of the Christmas traditions we hold dear today.
Stevens who is the brother of Cronulla's former Australian representative NRL player Jason, is currently the Pastor of Lifehouse Church in Camden and recently published his very first children's book called The Boy who became Santa Claus
The story is inspired by the true story of the young boy named Nicholas who grew up in ancient Rome. Through a series of adventures as a child Nicholas transformed into Saint Nick and then Santa Claus. As his journey unfolds we discover how Santa got his name, why he wears a red suit and the reason he gives presents at Christmas time. The story also reveals the origins of many of our fun Christmas traditions like hanging stockings and the book includes an array of exceptional illustrations that help bring this story to life.
Stevens said once he discovered the amazing true story behind Santa Claus he had to share it with everyone. No other children's book is as delightful in bringing to light Santa's often hidden origin. It's a fun resource parents will love to use to educate their child during the Festive season, to make it even more merry.
"Nicholas was very kind and caring, even as a kid and he was so generous," Stevens said.
"It's a very significant story that I believe will encourage kids to be kind and generous to others, not just at Christmas time but all year round too. Nicholas was an inspiring character and it's exciting to see how he became our much-loved hero - Santa!
"I had a rough childhood, so I'm passionate about letting children everywhere know how special they are. I'd like to inspire them through this story to do something great with their life, to believe they too can make a difference, just like Nicholas."
The book is available on Amazon and retails at $16.95 with free postage.
