by Clara, age 9 from Odense, Denmark, asks Santa about wish lists, the island of Funen, and Hans Christian Andersen’s birthplace.
Dear Santa, my name is Clara, and I am nine years old. I live in Odense, Denmark, where my mormor says a famous storyteller who wrote fairy tales loved by children everywhere was born right in our own city.
Dear Clara, a city that gave the world that much wonder and imagination deserves a very magical flyover, your mormor picked a truly storied hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Can I make a Santa wish list? My little sister was not sure if that was something she was allowed to do.
Of course, Clara, a wish list is one of my favorite things to receive, it helps me know exactly what might bring a smile to your face. Tell your little sister her list is always welcome, no permission needed.
My mormor says Odense sits on an island called Funen. Is that true?
It is true, Clara, Odense sits on the island of Funen, right in the heart of Denmark. I always enjoy that peaceful, island landscape on my way to your rooftop.
My mormor says Hans Christian Andersen, who wrote so many beloved fairy tales, was born right here in Odense. Is that true?
It is true, Clara, Hans Christian Andersen was born in Odense, and his imaginative stories have delighted children all around the world for generations. That kind of wonder and storytelling is really the heart of what makes childhood magical.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Clara Madsen
Odense, Denmark
P.S. Will you help my sister write her very first wish list?
Gladly, Clara, every list deserves a good, thoughtful start.
