“A CAMEL'S STORY – A Search for the Messiah”
Published in March 2005 by MK Publishing, St. Cloud , MN
Sandra Rae Hanson, Author
701 Lake Drive
Big Stone City , SD 57216
Ph 1-877-296-6079 (toll free)
E mail: mailto:camelstory@wat.midco..net
ISBN #: 09763271-0-4 with bar code
52 pages, hard cover, perfect bound
Full color, beautifully illustrated in water-color pencil
Retail: $21.95 Online Price: $19.95
“A CAMEL'S STORY – A Search for the Messiah” was written by Sandy Hanson and illustrated by Kristi Delage and Sandy Hanson. It was copyrighted in its final form in 2005 and is now being submitted to distributors for consideration.
The 52 page, full color picture-story is told from the “camel's perspective” and approaches the magi's discovery of the “Christ child” in a new way. This story, beautifully illustrated with water color pencils, presents an age old message intended for both those who have a Christian education and those who know nothing of what the bible has to say.
Xavier certainly did not share in his master's passion for finding the “Messiah”. He was very disturbed and angry about being used as “a common mule”. Full of self pity he grumbles, whines, and complains during the entire journey. When the star they are following stops and the magi finally find the Messiah they've been looking for, Xavier is completely caught off guard. Could this small boy living in a “shack” possibly be the Messiah for which his master was searching? The boy was totally different than the “palace- residing king” Xavier was expecting to see.
The reader will relate to Xavier's doubts and frustrations during the search as well as the dilemma he faces at the journey's end. Will he believe in this “Savior” or not?
Camels, by nature, are a lot like us. They tend to be rather prideful, stubborn creatures and do no like to follow commands. Experiencing the love of the Savior changes Xavier's heart from selfish, stubborn and proud to warm, loving and generous.
It is a book for all ages because its pictures and content appeals to young and old alike. A grandmother shares that her grandchildren each enjoyed various aspects of the book. One really enjoyed the camel facts, the other really liked the story and still another loved the pictures.
Many parents and grandparents have expressed they appreciate the book because it will grow with the child.
The story is told on scrolls opposite each of the 24
full color illustrations. The
optional reading underneath the scrolls provides interesting camel facts and
supportive information about the Messiah, magi, “Star of
The story may be read to very young children by just reading the captions on the colorful pictures.
Older children and adults enjoy the full story told on the scrolls as well as the optional reading beneath. The teaching portion is supported with biblical references and is scripturally accurate.
“A cleverly written story, scripturally accurate and beautifully illustrated – I hope it makes it to “the big time”! (Catholic priest)
“I'm so glad Jesus is not portrayed as a baby in the manger – He was older when the magi found Him!” (Retired Lutheran pastor)
“Fantastic imagination to spread a great message!” (Les Iverson –70 years old)
“I really liked it! I read it all. It was interesting. My favorite part was when Jesus forgave Xavier!” (Derrick Pillatzki – 9 years old)
“My Grandma Sandy wrote and illustrated a book called, “A Camel's Story”. It is about a camel named Xavier. He was very spoiled and complained about hard work. Please join him on his search for the Messiah, Jesus.” (Summer Unzen, 10 years old, to 5th grade classmates)
“It's awesome! -- The story is really good and I love how you made it an evangelistic tool!” (Sue Adams – pastor's wife)
A grandmother shared, “Two of my grandchildren wanted to say the prayer at the end of the story and asked Jesus into their hearts.”
“The artwork is fantastic! – I wish I could get a print matted and framed. If you ever sell prints, I want a copy of the original artwork for the cover!” (school teacher)
“I love the layout!” (B Dalton Store manager)
“We are so excited to get your book in our store! – We like it better than The Crippled Lamb !” (Owner, manager of a Christian book store)
“ It was just so neat the way you included facts throughout the story. I found myself in the camel. I still would like to know the end of the story - of my life that is. I know God can turn out things for our best but I want Him to do it my way, in my time (hard to see the end of the journey and the blessing that will be there). It's important to not get tunnel vision, isn't it? Even when trudging through the desert, it is important to find ways to look for the blessings God has for us along the way - and more important, to look for ways we can glorify Him.” (Nancy Johnson, age 45)
