Saint Nicholas the giftgiver 

Reviewed by:

Ceil Carey, retired public librarian and long time book discussion leader

REVIEW INTRODUCTION

Title:

Saint Nicholas the giftgiver 

Author:

Ned Bustard, author and illustrator 

Publisher:

IVP Kids

https://www.ivpress.com/ivp-kids

Date:

October 12, 2021

Format:

Picture book hardcover

Length:

32 pages

OVERVIEW

The heart of this story is the love of Jesus and He is the reason we gives gifts at Christmas.

Told in a lovely poetic style, the author answers his questions of who is St, Nicholas and why does he give presents. The text is quite detailed mentioning Diocletian, Nicaea, the town of Myra, etc. And most importantly, Bustard impresses the reader with the love of Jesus and the reason we give gifts as well as Nicholas’ impetus for sharing good things with others. This is also impressed on readers in the author’s note.

The illustrations, also done by Bustard, are rather dark and slightly foreboding but young children will definitely enjoy the story and hearing of St. Nicholas’ background.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5):

Rating: 4

Suggested Audience:

Preschool and early elementary children

Christian Impact:

The heart of this story is the love of Jesus and He is the reason we gives gifts at Christmas.

Other Notes:

-includes a note from the author with additional factual information on St. Nicholas