by Charlotte from Charlottetown asks Santa about Jack Frost, learns about the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and hears about Prince Edward Island’s literary heritage connected to Anne of Green Gables
Dear Santa, my name is Charlotte and I am nine years old. I live in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, where my grandma says our whole island turns a lovely shade of red because of the soil, especially near the coast.
Dear Charlotte, I have admired that exact red soil myself while flying over, and your grandma’s description is entirely accurate.
Santa, I have three questions.
My first question is, is Jack Frost with Santa? My little brother wondered if you two work together during the winter.
Jack Frost and I are old, friendly acquaintances, Charlotte, each of us with our own particular winter responsibilities. He handles the frost patterns; I handle the presents. We manage to stay out of each other’s way rather nicely.
My second question is about our gulf. My teacher says the Gulf of St. Lawrence surrounds much of our island. Is that true?
It is, Charlotte. The Gulf of St. Lawrence surrounds Prince Edward Island, shaping its fishing industry and coastline for centuries. Flying over that cold, dark water each Christmas Eve is a genuinely lovely part of my Canadian route.
My third question is about our island’s literary history. My teacher says a very famous story was set right here. Is that true?
It is true, Charlotte. Prince Edward Island is famously the setting of a beloved story about a spirited young girl, written over a century ago and cherished by readers around the world ever since. I think it is wonderful when a small island becomes home to such a big, lasting story.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Charlotte MacLeod
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
P.S. Does Jack Frost ever get jealous of your job?
Never once, Charlotte. He prefers the quieter work.
