Biographical note

Clement C. Moore (1779-1863), an American scholar and poet, first wrote The Night Before Christmas in 1822 to entertain his children. A friend submitted it to a local newspaper, The Troy Sentinel, where it was published on December 23, 1823. Moore's delightful description of St. Nicholas and his eight flying reindeer has since become the definitive portrait of Santa Claus. Mary Engelbreit grew up studying the illustrations in the vintage storybooks of her mother's own childhood, and she developed a unique style that harkens back to those simpler times. She has authored and illustrated several New York Times bestselling titles, including The Night Before Christmas, Mary Engelbreit's Mother Goose, and Mary Engelbreit's A Merry Little Christmas. Mary's distinctive images have made her a celebrity to millions. Her designs can be found on gift items, calendars, books, fabrics, and more.