Kevin D. Finson's fable, The Red Marble, is a touching story about the joy of giving, and the importance of friendship. The plot follows the protagonist, Leo, as he struggles with his goal to find that one special gift for that one special friend. He doesn't expect anything in return, only friendship, but Leo is determined to demonstrate his act of friendship through the art of giving. The plot takes a sad turn when things don't look like they will work out and Leo won't have anything to give his friend. But, given that it's a magical time of year, there is joy to be shared all around and this story does have that special feel-good Christmassy feel to it. The colorful illustrations add an interesting dimension to the story and the references to a certain magic toy workshop and a certain special, jolly old fellow, who often goes by the name of Nick, makes one ponder the many directions this story could and does take. This is a charming, sweet story that will warm the hearts of young and old every time it's read, for it definitely needs to be read many times, especially at Christmas.

Emily-Jane Hills Orford, Readers' Favorite reviewer