Wherever books are sold! The Christmas Elephant, a picture book by Maria Antonia

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THE CHRISTMAS ELEPHANT: A NATIVITY STORY

Ellie wants to be an elephant in the Christmas play, but her know-it-all sister says she’ll ruin everything.

Author: Maria Antonia
Illustrator: Laura Zarrin
Publisher: Paraclete Press
Release Date: October 8, 2024

Editorial Reviews

"A quirky story about a tenacious girl who wants to express herself and celebrate Christmas and Baby Jesus... The soft, muted tones of the illustrations add a flare of holiday spirit and a touch of simplistic softness that is nostalgic to the season."
School Library Journal

"The perfect warm holiday tale in times of chaos and pressure to be perfect."
Donna Barba Higuera, Newbery Medal & Pura Belpré Author Award Winner

"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

"Just like an elephant, you won't soon forget this adorable Mary and Martha retelling with a Christmas twist!"
Amanda Rawson Hill, author of The Hope of Elephants

"Sweet and funny but also a reminder that Christmas is all about Jesus. Get ready for giggles and AWWS and many 'Read it again!'"
Ana Siqueira, author of Abuela's Super Capa

"This unique, delightful retelling of the nativity story will stay with you a long time after you read it, much like the young elephant who never forgets. Destined to be added to your cherished collection of Christmas read-alouds."
Amy Houts, author of God's Earth is Something to Fight For


Author Visits



“I'm an elephant," Ellie said. "An elephant that never forgets!"

Christmas Elephant peek inside the book
Christmas Elephant peek inside the book
Christmas Elephant peek inside the book


Available for Preorder! Barnaby the Runaway Sheep, a picture book by Maria Antonia

Available for Preorder!

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Canadian Bookstores!

Amazon.ca Heritage Books




BARNABY THE RUNAWAY SHEEP

Author: Maria Antonia
Illustrator: Sayani Mukherjee
Publisher: Paraclete Press
Release Date: March 4, 2025

This Picture Book is About ...

Barnaby who loves life on the farm, except for when his shepherds want to snip, snip, snip away his wool. As the clippers draw near, Barnaby's fears bubble up like a storm. Why does anyone need his wool? In Barnaby the Runaway Sheep by Maria Antonia, follow Barnaby on a journey of courage and discovery.

Why Readers Love This Book

* Vibrant characters that leap off the page
* A touching story of bravery and belonging
* Beautifully illustrated, perfect for bedtime reading



Barnaby celebrated with his wiggle dance.

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