Flight of the Reindeer

Children have believed the legend forever: On one evening each year a jolly old elf and eight reindeer fly all night long to deliver gifts around the world. The fact is, solid evidence abounds. Robert Sullivan, a senior editor at LIFE magazine, di-ligently gathered documentation from scientists, historians, zoologists, and Arctic explorers to prove that Santa is not just a myth. First, the reindeer: Do they really fly? "We used to think it was just extended leaping," says Tony Vecchio, director of the Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island. "But recent evidence has confirmed that it is true flight." And Santa Claus? "He's just as real as the gifts he brings," reports Will Steger, the famed Arctic explorer. The gorgeous illustrations, convincing photos, and charming text make this book a special holiday gift.