Raphael and the Noble Task

Raphael is a griffin, one of the ferocious stone creatures sworn to guard the Cathedral from harm. Yet Raphael feels a mysterious longing for something more -- a Noble Task, one that will bring meaning to his life.

When a baby is abandoned at the Cathedral door, Raphael believes he's found his Noble Task at last. But Raphael soon learns that caring for the child brings danger and sacrifice as well as love. And when the baby's mother returns, only to find that her child is missing, Raphael must set things right by performing an act of enormous courage: an act that depends not only on a legend kept secret for generations but that will demand of him all of his heart and soul to prevail.

More than twenty illustrations bring the characters of the Cathedral to life in this unforgettable adventure, destined to be cherished as an enduring Christmas classic.

Salton's writing is engaging and a pleasure to read. Her book does not deliver its plot in a heavy-handed way, as some holiday books do. She tells a wonderful, magical story about love, faith, personal identity and community that will stand the test of time as a classic.


A New Classic!   October 31, 2000
Beth (Auburn, CA USA)
6 out of 6 found this review helpful

It's been a long time since a book has so absorbed me. Ms. Salton's style of writing is completely refreshing-while this is a children's book, I did not find the language condescending at all. Her character development is rich and full; I was truly disappointed when the book ended and I had to say goodbye to these wonderful creatures!

My 9 year old was also enthralled with Raphael-he practically swallowed the book whole! And while some of the language was a bit of a stretch for him, he enjoyed and understood the book thoroughly.

How often do you find a book that you can truly enjoy reading with your children! Make Raphael and the Noble Task a traditional holiday (or anytime) read in your house and you won't be disappointed.


A Hero at the Top of the Cathedral   October 29, 2000
4 out of 4 found this review helpful

This is a wonderful tale of a very personable chimere (who is not a gargoyle) who wants to find his way in the world - his Noble Task. I think that we are all looking for a Noble Task.

Raphael finds friendship and magic and love in his world even when he is confused and uncertain. I think that there is much to learn from this story and it is interesting to both kids and adults. Alot of the language is funny and quirky, which I liked alot.

Anyone who got interested in the Harry Potter books will also like this story because it has great characters and magic, too.


A classic fable, timeless and for readers young and old   October 28, 2000
4 out of 4 found this review helpful

Raphael the Cathedral griffin is a most human character indeed. At the heart of this magical medieval fable lies, as the title suggests, Raphael's search for meaning in his life - for a "noble task" to lend purpose to his existence. His quest teaches him about his, and our own, frailties of ego, pride, and heedlessness, and, ultimately, about our need for humility and self-giving love. In the end, the story of Raphael's redemption is our own.

Author Catherine Salton's evocative writing brings Raphael's Middle Ages cathedral to life as memorably as any classical fabulist. I highly recommend this book for people of all ages. The story is as timeless as the human soul itself