The Gift

About the Book

Readers of The Gift will find themselves entering into the world of a classic saga of good versus evil. Along the way they will pass through the lands of Elfin Haven Castle, Land of Lakes, Mound-Hill and the Vandalman Land of Nordland. They will meet the family of beautiful Queen Heather, her brave daughter Anree, the fairy Cieli and Heather's brother-in-law Kris von Krinkle. There are heroic quests, supreme destinies and ferocious battles with characters as diverse as Colestream Cardinals, Bull Reindeer warriors and stinking, demonic Slavers.

Set in a time when elves and fairies, plants and animals interacted with all manner of human-kind, this story proceeds to offer an inspiring explanation for some of the most beloved stories and beliefs held by that world and our own. A frozen landscape is the setting for great battles between the spirits of Hope and Despair, and the evergreen trees, which retain their beauty even in the coldest of times, hold the promise of an inspiring Christmas story.

Bill Craig has used his knowledge of military strategy and weaponry, and his love of the details of everyday life from a bygone era to craft this tale. Within the pages of The Gift hope will be renewed in the lives of its characters and perhaps in the hearts of its readers as well.

About the Author

Author’s Letter     

An open letter to my dearest and beloved Grandchildren,

                             From Your Poppa Bill                                      

This book is my special Christmas gift from my heart to yours! 

For when I was a young boy Christmas was my favorite holiday with all of its many trappings of celebration, and it still is. 

Not too long ago, you, my grandchildren, asked me if I was Santa Claus. “You know, you have white hair,” you said.  This got me to thinking about who is Santa Claus.  Maybe you are already very close to the truth.  You relate Christmas as a time when I visit and bring you very special gifts.  So perhaps, in your mind’s eye, there is this real connection.  I must admit that your question flattered me. 

 I had always answered my own children’s questions with, “As long as you are dearly loved, there will always be a Santa Claus for you.” 

 Prompted by your question to me, my grandchildren, I decided it was time for me to put pen to paper and write a high adventure, Christmas fairy tale that takes place in a world of make-believe.  Perhaps in this book I may have answered your question...who among us is Santa Claus?  I also took the liberty of answering a few other questions you might have.

 In my story, all of the characters, places, and events are pure fantasy.  The languages and the lifestyles portrayed are not intended to be that of any one time-line in history or that of any particular ethnic group of people. 

 I have generously included for you, my grandchildren, suggestions in kind behavior, good manners, and how you might enjoy serving or taking afternoon tea, or giving a dinner party for family or friends. I have also injected liberal doses into the story line of one of my favorite subjects...“The Code of Chivalry.” In this story I have strived to show how it might have come about that we have all of the wonderful icons we love and use in celebrating Christmas.

 After two years of writing, the story has turned into a saga.  This is a very high adventure story about two girls, one an Elfin girl and the other her Fairy-God-Sister.  They proceed on a quest to save a beautiful Princess and suffer through many life threatening trials.  The story is set during a time of war between the forces of evil and good.  Their bond of sisterly love for each other is the source of their strength.  Some of the scenes of warfare and the scars of the wounded survivors, may seem a bit harsh to you, but I felt it necessary for the story.  Unfortunately, the terror of war is a part of our lives today.  These accounts are also intended as tribute to the men and women of our Armed Forces.  We pray for their safe return to family hearths and homes. 

 I have tried to emphasize that love is the best prescription for all who have seen the fiery eye of war in the darkness of their lonely nightmares.

 To my grandchildren...YES, YOU!...This story is not finished.