Set in an imaginary land of castles, kings, and queens, The Gift is the story of Quinn, a twelve-year-old orphan whose life has been one heartbreak after another. But when an unexpected visitor arrives in his village, his life is about to change. It’s a tale of adventure that will test Quinn’s courage and prove that good things come to those who persevere.
The Gift isn't a typical picture book where each page contains an illustration and only a sentence or two (e.g. If You Give a Mouse a Cookie), but it’s not quite a full-blown chapter book either (e.g. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe).
Targeting readers ages 8 and up, think of it as a bridge between beginning chapter books like The Magic Treehouse and young adult chapter books. It’s got full pages of text and high-quality, full-page illustrations on every second or third page that help immerse the reader in the story. Included at the end of the book are discussion questions parents and teachers can use to reinforce the values presented in the story. |
Available now!
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What Readers Are Saying...

"The Gift had me captivated from start to finish. Quinn, the main character in this story, goes on a journey and comes face to face with obstacles keeping the reader engaged and wanting to know what happens next. This children’s book not only has a very important message, but it tugged at my heart strings. I absolutely LOVE this fun and intriguing book, and as an elementary school librarian, I recommend giving it a read."
— Cassie Lira, School Librarian
"HOOKED! That is what I was from the first words of this book, as well as my second grade class as I read it to them. We found ourselves joining Quinn on his exciting journey of faith as he persevered to get his gift to the king. You will find yourself laughing, as well as crying as you cheer Quinn on. This book is a must-have for any classroom, as well as your personal bookshelves."
— Stacy Allen, 2nd Grade Teacher
"Just finished reading The Gift to my elementary students. They clapped and cheered at the end and asked if there was another book in the series....They were so engaged; it was absolutely MAGICAL! Thank you, Brent!"
— Erika Aydin, 3rd-5th Grade Teacher
"What an amazing, well-written story. As a former classroom teacher, I love books that actually teach children a lesson. This is a must-read for classroom teachers and parents who are trying to instill courage and hope in their children."
— Linda Kelley, Retired Elementary School Teacher
"I have been teaching for over 28 years and have always used a book to help kick off the school year. I’ve used it for many different purposes but have always wanted to find a book that would allow me to show them the importance of perseverance and that any and all things are possible if you simply stay true to yourselves. Students today more than ever need to see the importance of not giving up and working hard to achieve one’s goals. This book provides the avenue to do just that and so much more. The author even provides some great questions that you can use to stimulate their thinking and help get the conversation going. I can’t think of a better way to start the year off with my students than reading this story to them."
— Mike Brewer, 3rd Grade Teacher
"Brent Coley's The Gift is truly just that. It warms my heart that this story is a realization of a dream, 25 years in the making. Brent has truly poured his heart into this treasure that will engage both children and adults. The illustrations are wonderful and teleport the reader into the protagonist's world. This book is about a 12-year-old orphan named Quinn who has lived a life of disappointment and heartbreak. When a visitor comes to his village, Quinn goes off on a quest that will change his life forever. This adventure will test his courage and, more importantly, his faith. This story is unique, yet timeless in its message. I can just imagine the discussions at home and in the classroom about Quinn's journey and tough decisions he has to make. Children will love this book and parents will enjoy the story time and time again! This book will be a gift to all its readers."
— Solomon Petchers, Middle School Teacher and award-winning author of A Ghost in the Attic, Feasters, and Feasters: The Circle
"The Gift is a masterful tale that will resonate with audiences of all ages. The layered themes of hope and persistence are a welcomed encouragement for all readers."
— Brian Butler, Parent and Executive Leadership Coach
— Cassie Lira, School Librarian
"HOOKED! That is what I was from the first words of this book, as well as my second grade class as I read it to them. We found ourselves joining Quinn on his exciting journey of faith as he persevered to get his gift to the king. You will find yourself laughing, as well as crying as you cheer Quinn on. This book is a must-have for any classroom, as well as your personal bookshelves."
— Stacy Allen, 2nd Grade Teacher
"Just finished reading The Gift to my elementary students. They clapped and cheered at the end and asked if there was another book in the series....They were so engaged; it was absolutely MAGICAL! Thank you, Brent!"
— Erika Aydin, 3rd-5th Grade Teacher
"What an amazing, well-written story. As a former classroom teacher, I love books that actually teach children a lesson. This is a must-read for classroom teachers and parents who are trying to instill courage and hope in their children."
— Linda Kelley, Retired Elementary School Teacher
"I have been teaching for over 28 years and have always used a book to help kick off the school year. I’ve used it for many different purposes but have always wanted to find a book that would allow me to show them the importance of perseverance and that any and all things are possible if you simply stay true to yourselves. Students today more than ever need to see the importance of not giving up and working hard to achieve one’s goals. This book provides the avenue to do just that and so much more. The author even provides some great questions that you can use to stimulate their thinking and help get the conversation going. I can’t think of a better way to start the year off with my students than reading this story to them."
— Mike Brewer, 3rd Grade Teacher
"Brent Coley's The Gift is truly just that. It warms my heart that this story is a realization of a dream, 25 years in the making. Brent has truly poured his heart into this treasure that will engage both children and adults. The illustrations are wonderful and teleport the reader into the protagonist's world. This book is about a 12-year-old orphan named Quinn who has lived a life of disappointment and heartbreak. When a visitor comes to his village, Quinn goes off on a quest that will change his life forever. This adventure will test his courage and, more importantly, his faith. This story is unique, yet timeless in its message. I can just imagine the discussions at home and in the classroom about Quinn's journey and tough decisions he has to make. Children will love this book and parents will enjoy the story time and time again! This book will be a gift to all its readers."
— Solomon Petchers, Middle School Teacher and award-winning author of A Ghost in the Attic, Feasters, and Feasters: The Circle
"The Gift is a masterful tale that will resonate with audiences of all ages. The layered themes of hope and persistence are a welcomed encouragement for all readers."
— Brian Butler, Parent and Executive Leadership Coach