The Christmas Elephant: A Nativity Story

＂A great book for a religious school library, church class, or any collection.＂ --School Library Journal

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)!

Ellie thinks outside the box. She stands her ground and remains in her elephant costume even when her older sister--and director of this year’s Christmas play-- demands she change into a sheep costume. The theme of standing up for your own uniqueness sends a subtle message to children that they can fit in anywhere if they persevere and don’t give in to peer pressure. Ellie’s approach to standing her ground is entertaining and empowering. There is also a teaching moment for the bossy sister who comes to see that everything doesn’t have to work out the way she planned in order to be wonderful. The Christmas Elephant is an ideal addition for family, preschool, elementary school, and community library Christmas picture book collections.

This unique holiday book is perfect for:

• Children ages 3-8
• Sharing the story of Christmas through a memorable narrative text and engaging, whimsical illustrations
• Christmas gifts, including stocking stuffers and church ministry outreach
• Inspiring discussion and dialogue with parents, grandparents, friends, and teachersChristmas celebrations, church ministry outreach, and Advent discussions
• Sparking age-appropriate conversations about Christmas, self-esteem, Jesus’ birth, and helping others.

Maria Antonia has plenty of experience with the Annual Sunday School Christmas Play--sometimes performing, sometimes writing, sometimes directing. Although, not one of those plays has featured a Christmas Elephant! (At least not yet.) She is currently the Sunday School Superintendent at her church and has formerly taught at a Christian school in New York City. When not writing, she’s busy taking photos of God’s wonderful creation. She has lived in Sunny Spain, Busy New York City, and currently resides in the Great White North of Canada.