Secret Service Saint, by Janet Ann Collins, with artwork by Eugene Ruble

Secret Service Saint by Janet Ann Collins, with artwork by Eugene Ruble, is a wonderfully rich and timely addition to Saint Nicolas lore.  The title will capture the attention of the younger set.  This story takes us back to the time of the early church and shows the reader how God changes us and uses us for good.    

Nicolas wanted an adventurous life, so God gave him that and more.  First, Nicolas had an adventure sailing to a new life.  Then he became an important, wealthy church leader.  Somehow that wasn’t enough.  Nicolas wanted more adventure in his life.  He prayed and God used him to help needy people in secret.  In disguise, Nicolas used his wealth to help poor people.  After he died the secret good deeds stopped.  Then people realized it was Nicolas who had helped them.  People spread stories of his secret gifts and help throughout the world.  Saint Nicolas became our modern day Santa Claus, who gives gifts in celebration of the birth of Jesus.

The artwork by Eugene Ruble adds to the historical feel of the story.  His vivid pictures bring every nuance of the story to life.  The emotions of each character come alive as you turn each page.  You clearly see how the joy of secret giving changed Nicolas.  His smile and twinkling eyes are etched on his features even as his face ages in the story.

This is a lovely book that teaches the true meaning of Christmas to young people today.  It shows children how helping and giving will bring more joy and satisfaction than getting presents.  When we give from the heart, expecting nothing in return, we are doubly rewarded.

Secret Service Saint  is available from Guardian Angel Publishing, also Amazon.com.