Saint Nicholas the Giftgiver - by Ned Bustard (Hardcover)

About the Book

Around Christmas we think a lot about presents, but have you ever wondered why we give gifts? Learn about the life of Saint Nicholas and discover why he became known as one of the greatest giftgivers of all time. Told as a delightful poem, this colorfully illustrated children's book also includes tools to help parents engage in conversation about the content.

Book Synopsis

2021 BRONZE MOONBEAM CHILDREN'S BOOK AWARD

Show Kids the Spirit of Christmas and the Beauty of Giving

On the night before Christmas,
so the old stories say,
Saint Nicholas rides
in a magical sleigh.
But what is the truth,
and what are the legends?
Who is this giftgiver,
and why all the presents?

Why do we give gifts at Christmas? How did this beloved tradition begin? Saint Nicholas the Giftgiver, retold and illustrated by Ned Bustard, takes families on a heartwarming journey through the story of Saint Nicholas--an exceptionally kind bishop whose profound generosity was rooted in his deep faith. His acts of kindness have inspired Christians worldwide for centuries and ultimately gave rise to the legend of Santa Claus.

Told through engaging, rhythmic poetry and paired with vivid, colorful illustrations, Saint Nicholas the Giftgiver is a joy for children and adults alike. With its captivating storytelling, young readers will gain a deeper understanding of the spirit of Christmas and the beauty of giving.

For parents and caregivers, the book includes a special message to help spark meaningful conversations with children about faith, generosity, and how we can reflect Christ's love in our lives.

Saint Nicholas the Giftgiver is perfect for:

• Parents, grandparents, and caregivers looking to share the true meaning of Christmas with their children
• Sunday school teachers and Christian educators introducing timeless values through storytelling
• Librarians seeking a faith-centered addition to their children's collection

Bring the story of Saint Nicholas into your home and inspire your family to celebrate the season with generosity and joy. Saint Nicholas the Giftgiver invites you to discover the deeper meaning behind Christmas traditions and share with children the things that matter to God.

Review Quotes

"In charming verse, Bustard winsomely enriches our modern notion of Santa with the history of Saint Nicholas. His colorful illustrations recall Byzantine mosaics and rightfully reimagine Nicholas in the diverse world of the early church in Asia Minor. This is sure to be a new Christmas favorite."

Elissa Yukiko Weichbrodt, associate professor of art and art history at Covenant College

"Ned Bustard has a great gift for joining whimsy and gravity in a way that appeals to both children and grownups alike. This wonderful book will serve parents well as they seek to preserve the mystery of Christmas for their children without grounding it in fantasy. And any time spent with Ned's brilliant illustrations is time well spent."

Russ Ramsey, pastor and author of Rembrandt Is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art Through the Eyes of Faith

About the Author

Ned Bustard is a graphic designer, children's book illustrator, author, and printmaker. As the creative director for Square Halo Books Inc. and curator of the Square Halo Gallery, Ned has lectured at colleges, schools, churches, and conferences. His work is found in numerous titles, including Saint Nicholas the Giftgiver, Saint Patrick the Forgiver, The O in Hope, and Every Moment Holy.