The Seagull on the Chapel is a charming new picture book by Eric Clayton and Shannon Evans (published by Paraclete Press) that helps children learn how they have a special place in God’s heart. Maggie is a seagull who longs to be a dove. Doves are special! They are elegant and have the honor of representing the Holy Spirit. In contrast, Maggie squawks and gets grass in her feathers. Sometimes, she even trips over her webbed feet. How could she ever “be beautiful and sacred and cherished by God.”

Sad after her friends laugh at her, she flies on top of a roof and cries. On her perch, she notices black smoke coming out of the chimney next to her. The next day, white smoke rises, and she realizes she is on top of the Sistine Chapel during the papal conclave. People wave at her and cheer and she gets to see the new pope emerge with a message of peace and love. Maggie realizes with joy that “maybe she did have a place in God’s story.”

Inspired by the seagulls seen at the 2025 papal conclave, this lovely tale reminds children and the adults who read the story to them that we don’t have to long to be someone else to have a valuable part in God’s plan. This story encourages all of us to celebrate our God-given value and trust in God’s love.

The illustrations by Angela Edmonds are delightful and complement the text perfectly. There is an added section at the end of the book that explains what happens at a papal conclave for those who might be interested.

The Seagull on the Chapel is a great book to share with a child. It is aimed at ages 4-8, but can be enjoyed by those who are older as well.

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