The Give-Away: A Christmas Story in the Native American Tradition

Wonderful combination of christian & earth-centered storytelling. Not dumbed-down for children, yet totally accessible. Lovely artwork. Inspires dialogue with readers on what we have to "give-away."

The best book I have ever read regarding the birth of Christ from an aboriginal viewpoint. Those in the pulpit need to move over and make room.

I became aware of this book yesterday when I heard Ray Buckley read it at a Christmas Tea & Tree for the Red Bird Missionary Conference. The book touched the hearts of each of those present. Small children, youth and adults were warmed with the story.The Give-Away is for all families, with children and without. It would be an excellent resource to give to families that do not attend church. Ray re-presents God's story of love and self-giving by sharing from his tradition the story of giving.

The Give-Away is beautifully written and illustrated. Mr. Buckley's story is simply the story of Christmas, based on the tradition shared by many Native people known as 'the give-away." A friend recommended this book and I share that recommendation with you. The Native people have much to teach in their tradition of the give-away.

Both the illustrations and the story are wonderful. The book artfully combines Native American spirituality aspects with Christian aspects. I used this book in a "children's church" class at our Native American / Catholic church at Christmas. The kids loved the story and afterwards made a collage of Jesus in the manager surrounded by all the animals mentioned in the story. The book could be used during Easter as well or during a discussion about Native American give-aways.