The Christmas Gift


Children - Picture Book
Kindle Edition
Reviewed on 11/08/2025
Buy on Amazon

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    Book Review

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

Immerse yourself in a heartwarming Christmas adventure with Andrea Hyatt's The Christmas Gift. Santa comes into his workshop with a big announcement. He asks one of his hardworking elves to go into the woods and collect a Christmas gift from each of the animals for the baby reindeer, Ruby. Unwilling to leave the coziness and warmth of the workshop, none of the elves volunteers, except one. Elliot follows Santa's map and visits Brutus the Bear's cave, Roxie the Rabbit's burrow, Sammy the Squirrel's tree, and last, Rosie the Raccoon's dwelling. Disappointed with his outing, Elliot finally finds a gift for Ruby from Matilda, who gave him a nibble of cheese and her last Christmas cookie. Elliot, Matilda, and Santa were able to create a magical Christmas for little Ruby.

The Christmas Gift has all the attributes that embody the spirit of Christmas, including selflessness, sacrifice, kindness, and generosity. This children's picture book fills you with hope and a sense of limitless wonder that each Christmas season brings. Featuring vibrant illustrations by Baran Sabahi, this story warms your heart and leaves you with a smile on your face. Author Andrea Hyatt is a master of crafting tales that not only lift your spirits but also impart a few valuable life lessons along the way. And this book is no different. Elliot is a little elf that young readers are sure to adore, while Santa and the baby reindeer, Ruby, add depth and charm, making the story even more immersive and delightful. All in all, it's a charming picture book for the holiday season.

Carol Thompson

The Christmas Gift by Andrea Hyatt follows Elliot, a kind-hearted and determined elf, who volunteers to collect Christmas gifts for Ruby, the new baby reindeer. Despite facing obstacles and refusals from the animals he visits, Elliot’s dedication remains strong. Elliot’s journey brings him to meet Brutus the Bear, Roxie the Rabbit, Sammy the Squirrel, and Rosie the Raccoon, each of whom initially refuses to share their treasures. These encounters highlight themes of generosity and selflessness, as Elliot learns that the true spirit of Christmas is in giving, even when it's challenging. The turning point occurs when Matilda, a shy mouse, offers a piece of cheese and her last Christmas cookie. This act of kindness emphasizes that even the smallest gestures can hold great meaning.

The Christmas Gift captures the magic and spirit of the holiday season. The narrative is engaging and easy to follow, making it perfect for young readers. Illustrations by Baran Sabahi show the snowy landscapes of the North Pole and the warm, cozy atmosphere of Santa’s workshop, sparking the imaginations of young readers. The illustrations complement the story, adding vibrant colors and whimsical details. The Christmas Gift is a delightful addition to Andrea Hyatt’s collection of children’s picture books. It demonstrates the essence of Christmas through themes of kindness, perseverance, and the joy of giving. The book is sure to become a cherished holiday favorite for families to enjoy together. It reminds readers, young and old, that the spirit of Christmas is not about receiving but about the love and care shared with others.

Anne-Marie Reynolds

The Christmas Gift by Andrea Hyatt is a wonderfully festive picture book. Santa is about to make a big announcement and the elves are excited to hear what it is. One elf will be sent into the woods to collect gifts for Ruby, the newest little reindeer baby, from each of the animals. The problem is, the workshop is so warm and cozy that none of them wants to go. Except for Elliot, that is. Santa gives Elliot a map and he sets off to visit each animal. Along the way, he must face his fears, braving heights, and deep dark caves, but can he persuade the animals to part with a gift for Ruby? Elliot cannot let Santa down but will his persistence pay off?

The Christmas Gift by Andrea Hyatt is a heartwarming tale with beautiful illustrations by Baran Sabahi. It’s a cute story about a persistent little elf who goes on an adventure he’ll never forget, and it’s one that kids will love reading, not just at Christmas but any time of the year. It’s also about facing your fears to achieve your goals and about not giving up. Just as importantly, it’s about learning that, sometimes, help comes from the unlikeliest of places. It reminds children that a generous heart is the real spirit of Christmas, not how many gifts you get, and that kindness reaps its own rewards. This is really well written story and the illustrations bring the words to life on each page. Thoroughly enjoyable tale for kids all over the world.