After years of growth as a real-world destination visited by hundreds of thousands of families, The Kingdom of Santa Claus continues its evolution into a broader cross-generational narrative universe spanning publishing, children’s storytelling, immersive experiences and audiovisual development.

Created by Italian author and world-builder Giorgio Onorato Aquilani, the project began as a physical place dedicated to imagination, family connection and shared wonder. Over time, it has grown into a larger storytelling ecosystem that now includes novels, children’s books, original characters, live entertainment, music and animation development.

One of the central projects within the universe is Back to Magic, a new cross-generational novel to be published by Fabbri Editori (Mondadori Group) in 2026. Set between London and Italy, the story follows a disillusioned writer whose understanding of reality begins to shift as he reconnects with a forgotten sense of wonder.

While fully self-contained, Back to Magic also serves as a gateway into the wider Kingdom universe and is currently being introduced internationally through ongoing foreign rights discussions.

Alongside the novel, the children’s side of the universe continues to expand through the adventures of Lucy the star and her friends. Lucy and the Secret of Santalloween, originally published in Italy by Gribaudo (Feltrinelli Group), has sold more than 16,000 copies and has become one of the most promising audiovisual entry points into the property.

This year, The Kingdom of Santa Claus will participate in MIFA 2026 in Annecy, where the project will be presented to international animation, publishing and family entertainment professionals as part of its continuing international development strategy.

More than a single title or seasonal concept, The Kingdom of Santa Claus is being developed as a contemporary narrative universe designed to speak to children, adults and families through different stories connected by a shared emotional core.

Giorgio Onorato Aquilani, said:

“Christmas is the language I chose to talk about the moments in life that often find us unprepared as we grow older. Over the years, I built this universe to remind adults that imagination still has a place in everyday life, and to remind children that growing up does not require leaving wonder behind.”