How we all enjoyed the tales we were told when we were small and it was time to go to bed! Now let me take you back to Elf Forest, where time has stood still since you left. Come on a trip through an enchanting forest where fairies, dwarves, and many other creatures have found sanctuary. Here they all live happily together, learning life lessons, dealing with little problems, and comforting one another in times of trouble. No phone, computer or TV. Life is simple and uncomplicated; life is good.

I hope you will once again feel the magic when you read these original tales from Elf Forest to your little ones.

— Mariken Karnas, Author

The tales grandma tells

by Tasha Black, Kapiti Observer article 23/1/2012

A Waikanae grandmother with a passion for storytelling has penned a book inspired by her grandchildren. Enchanting Tales of Elf Forest by Mariken Karnas is a collection of 20 stories, each with its own moral.

"My grandchildren always asked me to tell them a story," said Karnas.

"The problem was that the next time they asked me to tell the story again, I had forgotten a few things and they were rather disappointed in me. I decided to solve the problem by writing them down.

"The stories are funny, but with a moral as well. One should not steal, be kind, be helpful, never go with a stranger, etc."

It is Karnas' first book, however she has already written dozens more stories and has plans to collate them in another book.

"I have the feeling that fairytales are slowly disappearing."

Enchanting Tales of Elf Forest is available from Take Note bookstore in Waikanae and recommended for ages 4 to 7.