Some stories begin with a grand plan. Others begin with a memory, a tradition, or a piece of family history passed down through generations. 

For sisters Lavonne and Teresa Bjelland, the idea for Gnome Needs a Home grew from their deep Norwegian roots and the folktales they heard about gnomes growing up. In Norway, gnomes, often called “nisse,” are beloved figures connected to family, home, kindness, and protection. During the holidays, especially, these little characters appear in decorations, stories, and traditions that bring families together year after year. 

Surrounded by Scandinavian culture throughout their childhood, Lavonne and Teresa wanted to create something that honored their heritage while sharing meaningful life lessons with children everywhere. That is how Gnome came to life. 

From the very beginning, Gnome was meant to be more than simply a character in a story. Gnome represents curiosity, kindness, resilience, and the universal desire to belong. Through each adventure, children are introduced to important social-emotional lessons in ways that feel warm, playful, and relatable. 

In Gnome Needs a Home, readers follow Gnome on a heartfelt journey to discover where they truly belong. Along the way, children learn about friendship, compassion, perseverance, and the importance of feeling loved and accepted. These are lessons that connect across cultures, generations, and families of all kinds. 

At the same time, the Bjelland sisters wanted to weave pieces of Norway into the stories they tell. Through traditions, scenery, food, and folklore, the Gnome Books invite families to explore Scandinavian culture together while creating meaningful reading moments at home. 

For Lavonne and Teresa, storytelling has always been deeply connected to family. Many of the values woven throughout the Gnome Books are the same values they were raised with: 

These themes continue throughout the entire Gnome Adventure Series, with each story encouraging children to grow emotionally while discovering the beauty of culture, family, and connection. 

One of the most meaningful parts of creating the Gnome Books has been hearing from families who see pieces of their own traditions reflected in the stories. While the books are inspired by Norwegian heritage, the heart behind them is universal. Every child wants to feel safe, valued, and loved. Every family carries traditions that help shape who they are. 

Through Gnome’s journey, Lavonne and Teresa hope to inspire families to celebrate both where they come from and the values they hope to pass down to future generations. At The Uff Da Sisters, LLC, the mission has always been about more than books. It is about creating experiences that bring families together through storytelling, learning, imagination, and heart. 

We are deeply grateful to everyone who has welcomed Gnome into their homes and family traditions. Your support helps keep these stories alive for children and families everywhere. We would love to hear from you. What family traditions or cultural stories have been passed down through your family? Share your memories and traditions with us in the comments below.