The elf on the shelf story is a delightful tale about a mischievous elf who observes children's behavior and reports back to Santa at the North Pole. The elf's goal is to encourage good behavior and teach children about the importance of kindness and respect during the holiday season. The story is typically read during the lead-up to Christmas, with the elf appearing in households in late November or early December. The elf is then removed on Christmas Eve when Santa is due to arrive.