Woodcarving the Nativity in the Folk Art Style: Step-by-Step Instructions and Patterns for a 15-Piece Manger Scene
I have carved almost every figure from this book as a Christmas present for my mother.  I found the instructions concise and easy to follow, particularly when paired with the excellent photo illustrations.  The basic figure shapes are defined in detail and easily applied to the remaining figures with little modification.  In fact minor alterations have been used to create additional figures such as the little drummer boy.  I have an extensive carving library and rank this book as one of my absolute favorites.  I strongly reccomend this book for all level of carvers.