Raven's Gift: A Feathered Flight of Faith

by Claire Annette Noland

Raven is bored. Nothing ever happens in the fields around Bethlehem until...One night, a dazzling star lights up the sky and angels gather to sing. The Savior has been born!Now Raven has a mission. He will fly and bring the message to the other birds. They are excited to bring gifts to the Christ child, but what, Raven wonders, could he possibly bring?Based on an old legend, Biblical birds hear Raven’s call and celebrate the birth of Jesus in a tale of determination, perseverance, faith, and generosity.

Paperback

About the author

Claire Annette Noland writes picture books, early readers, work-for-hire, and magazine articles from her book-filled home in Central California.
Her career has centered around children and books as a children’s librarian, reading specialist, kindergarten teacher, and mom. She travels extensively as a children’s advocate and is currently developing a children’s library in Nicaragua.
Claire loves to write and share books that encourage children to be good friends to others.

Reviews

[Cheryl Malandrinos · Rating 5 out of 5]

A unique and delightful story of the first Christmas is what young readers will find in Raven’s Gift: A Feathered Flight of Faith by Claire Annette Noland.

Every night is ordinary as Raven looks out over the fields from his nest. Until one special night when light and angels fill the sky announcing the Savior’s birth. Raven rushes off to tell the other birds, but is soon disappointed to find they all have a gift for the Christ Child while he fears he has nothing to give.

What a sweet story. Using a variety of birds found in the Bible, Noland shares a story of one bird celebrating the first Christmas with his feathered friends. Raven’s Gift reminds us of the importance of using the talents we possess and sharing our gifts with the world.

Artist Desirée Cordón’s stunning artwork brings this story to life alongside Noland’s engaging text. I found her use of blues, pinks, and purples so enchanting.

If you are looking for a new way to share the story of the first Christmas with your little one, Raven’s Gift is the perfect choice.

[Cindy G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was gifted a copy of Claire Noland’s delightful book, “Raven’s Gift: A Feathered Flight of Faith.” It is a retelling of the joyful legend of a Raven who spreads the news about Jesus’ birth and in the process discovers that we all have something to share. Desiree Cordon’s illustrations are adorable and captivating, and the repeated, lyrical refrain is sure to get kids participating in the reading. While the story is a Christian one, Raven’s question about what he has to give is universal, making the story appealing to kids of all faiths. Bonus: the backmatter about birds in the bible is fascinating.

[Janie Reinart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Claire Annette Nolan’s charming story Raven’s Gift A Feathered Flight of Faith brings us back to the true meaning of Christmas. Desiree Cordon’s illustrations complements this delightful story.
The angels sang, “Raven fly fast! Raven fly far! Raven fly under the Bethlehem star!”
The repetitive and lyrical lines add to the musicality and joyful celebration of Jesus's birthday. I ordered a copy for my grandchildren and can hardly wait for them to receive it.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raven's Gift by Claire Noland introduces a fresh telling of a little-known Christmas fable of a Raven who helps spread the word of Christ's birth. Colorful illustrations and repetitive text that allows little ones to join in the reading makes this a great choice for Christmas gift giving or reading aloud during advent.

[Tina Cho · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raven’s Gift makes for a fun read-aloud. “Raven, fly fast! Raven, fly far! Raven, fly under the Bethlehem star!” Raven witnesses the angels’ song & flies off to tell his feathered friends. Each bird brings a gift, but Raven doesn’t know what to bring to baby Jesus until he figures out that he had already given the best gift. This is such an adorable Christmas story for young kids.

[Karen Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raven's Gift by Claire Annette Noland is the perfect addition to your Christmas book collection. Kids will love the repeat lines and quickly chime in when they're read out loud. Parents will love the message of spreading the news of the birth of Christ. This should become an instant Christmas classic.

Karen J Moore
Author

[Annette Schottenfeld · Rating 5 out of 5]

Claire Annette Noland has captured the spirit of the Christmas holiday in her book Raven’s Gift. Children will delight in joining in with the lyrical chorus and discovering the meaning of sharing with others. Desiree Cordon’s illustrations are heartwarming and fun!

[Kristen Nordstrom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Claire Annette Noland's RAVEN'S GIFT is an instant classic. The lyrical language, beautiful illustrations, and heart-warming message makes this wonderful picture book a Christmas treasure. I'm a mom and a teacher and I promise you...children will request this book again and again.

[OnceUponATime · Rating 5 out of 5]

O come all ye faithful, and add this book celebrating the spirit of giving to your young ones' Christmas collection. Everyone has a gift to give, and it's not always something you wrap and put under the tree.

[Sharon Giltrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

An extraordinary re-telling of the birth of Jesus from a birds eye point of view. What I love about this story is Raven's postman hat, the refrain repeated throughout the story and the fact that Raven has the best gift of all. Great work Claire and Desiree.

[Thelia Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of winning this book and I was not disappointed. Such a sweet story about Raven on a mission to deliver a special message featuring charming illustrations that help propel such a beautiful story.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a heartfelt, hopeful story! I enjoyed hearing the good news of Jesus' birth from the perspective of Raven and friends as they experienced the joy and wonder of God's gift to us at Christmas. The ending is so touching, too.

[Christina B · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the perfect addition to any Christmas/Holiday book collection! The story is beautiful, and the pictures are stunning!! Definitely recommend!

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute story with a relatable lesson on evangelism.