The Christmas Elephant is a sweet story to remind us that God’s love is big enough to love all of us, even the ones who feel like an elephant in the room.

—Emily Morrow, creator of Really Very Crunchy

In Maria Antonia’s heartfelt Christmas story, Ellie just wants to be part of the Nativity play, but of course as an elephant, so what could go wrong? The perfect warm holiday tale in times of chaos and pressure to be perfect. Ellie’s story of determination is a gentle reminder for us all to slow down and remember that in the eyes of Christ, we all belong. This tale could lead to a new generation of Nativity plays with all of God’s creatures to remind us of Jesus’ universal love.

—Donna Barba Higuera, Newbery Medal and Pura Belpré Author Award Winner

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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 teachers

Christmas celebrations, church ministry outreach, and Advent discussions

Sparking age-appropriate conversations about Christmas, self-esteem, Jesus’ birth, and helping others.

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To order from Paraclete Press call 774-801-2041

Celebrate Christmas with
Ellie and Piper!

Enter your order information here, and you’ll receive a free packet of downloadable resources from Maria Antonia!

-Coloring Pages
-Color your own Christmas Cards
-Puppets
-Christmas Pageant instructions

Just like an elephant, you won’t soon forget this adorable
Mary and Martha retelling with a Christmas twist!

—Amanada Rawson Hill, author of The Hope of Elephants

This creative story about a determined girl wearing an elephant disguise at a Christmas play is not only sweet and funny but also a reminder that Christmas is all about Jesus. And Jesus loves everybody, even elephants. And, for sure, everybody will love this story. Get ready for giggles and AWWS and many “Read it again!” 

—Ana Siqueira, author of Abuela’s Super Capa

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.

Laura Zarrin planned on becoming an archeologist, but realized she was much happier staying home drawing and watching TV. Luckily that worked out pretty well. Laura is the illustrator of the Wallace and Grace series by Heather Alexander and the Katie Woo’s Neighborhood series by Fran Manushkin. Laura has illustrated over 30 books for children including board books, picture books, and chapter books, Highlights Hidden Pictures, and various educational projects. She’s happiest writing and illustrating characters with subtle and not so subtle humor.

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