The Feathered Crown - Tapa dura

An enchanting story, capturing the wonder and beauty of the very first Christmas, follows a flock of mother birds as they travel a long distance to bestow a very special gift upon the newborn baby Jesus. 17,500 first printing.

Marsha Hayles is the author of several books for young children, including Beach Play and He Saves the Day. Her inspiration for The Feathered Crown arose from a simple discovery; bird books so often feature colorful male birds in favor of the less vivid females. Once her imagination alighted on an image of female birds filling the sky, this story took flight. Ms. Hayles lives in Pittsford, New York, with her family.

Bernadette Pons has illustrated many books for children, including Mouse Cleaning and Tickle Tum! While painting The Feathered Crown, she was especially moved by the bond of motherhood - filled with strength and love - that propels the story forward. An internationally known artist whose work has been exhibited at the Bologna Book Fair, Ms. Pons lives with her three daughters and husband in Paris, France.