Welcome to Book Zone Reviews’ stop on the tour for The Christmas Elephant written and hosted by Maria Antonia.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review is written voluntarily. In addition, this post contains affiliate links which may earn me a percentage of the cost of the book. This will not increase your pricing.
The Christmas Elephant by Maria Antonia Illustrator: Laura Zarrin
Published by Paraclete Press on October 8, 2024
ISBN: 9781640609587
Genres: Juvenile Fiction / Family / Siblings, Juvenile Fiction / Holidays & Celebrations / Christmas & Advent, Juvenile Fiction / Performing Arts / Theater & Musicals, Juvenile Fiction / Social Themes / Self-Esteem & Self-Reliance
Pages: 32
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Ellie wants to be an elephant in the Christmas play but her know-it-all sister says she’ll ruin everything. When Baby Jesus goes missing, Ellie must find him, or the play will be ruined (but not because Ellie is an elephant)!
My Thoughts
The Christmas Elephant: a Nativity Story by Maria Antonia is beautifully and simply written, accompanied by enchanting images it shows that we all have a part to play in sharing God’s story of love and hope.
In Ellie’s case, she wanted to be an elephant and not a lamb despite her sister, Piper’s insistence that “there were no elephants in Bethlehem.” She tried to fit into the different groups in the play while still being dressed as an elephant, and her plan was foiled every time by her older sister, the director.
When baby Jesus goes missing, no one knows where He is. Ellie remembers where she saw Him last and gets Him. At that point, she is center stage with all eyes on her. She expects a negative response however, everyone is so excited that the play is saved, and no one harps on her still being dressed as an elephant.
I think both girls learned something that day.
Ellie taught Piper that it’s okay not to be legalistic and hold on to the exact script. Creative license is allowed, and can still retain the heart and spirit of the joyful message of Jesus’ birth.
She also learned like Martha did in the Mary and Martha story, that to be with God and to celebrate Him is enough because with Him in charge, the play turned out the way God intended. Many today still need to find Jesus no matter who they are or whatever walk of life, He is not lost and is available to be met.
Piper’s insistence that Ellie change to be a part of the play, allowed Ellie to stand on her belief and set her up well to withstand pressure. Just as Martha complained to Jesus that Mary wasn’t doing anything or “the right thing” Jesus’ response to Martha, let her know that Mary was fine, and she was the one who needed to stop working and just worship and be in His presence.
Key Takeaway:
Piper is administrative and creative. Ellie is also creative, full of praise, worship, and excitement. Even when we are saved and made over into God’s image, He still uses the unique personal traits that He gave to each of us, to share His message of love.
My Recommendation:
Parents, Teachers, Churches, and Libraries should all have a copy of this book. The release is just in time to be added to lists for Christmas.
Resources:
For those who do not know it, the Mary and Martha story mentioned is explained in the back of the book, as well as questions for discussion.
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About Maria Antonia
MARIA ANTONIA learned to write her name at five years old and tried typing with an old manual typewriter at age eight. However, it was when she met the computer that she never turned back. Many years later, she still clickety-taps out her stories onto the screen, stories that have turned into picture books like The Christmas Elephant and Barnaby the Runaway Sheep. In addition to writing, Maria also enjoys sipping a nice cup of hot tea and capturing the world with her camera. She has lived in Sunny Spain, Busy New York City, and currently resides in the Great White North of Canada.
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Thanks for being part of my blog hop!!
I am honored to have been included.