Sammy and His Shepherd
In Sammy and His Shepherd, veteran children’s writer Susan Hunt takes youngsters on a delightful trip through Psalm 23 from the point of view of a sheep named Sammy.
Sammy lives happily under the care of his faithful shepherd. But one day he meets a sheep from another flock, one who lives in misery because her shepherd is not so caring. Eventually, to the delight of both of them, Sammy’s shepherd buys the needy little sheep for his flock and gives her a name―Precious. Thereafter, Sammy tells Precious all the wonderful things about their shepherd. At first, Precious has a hard time believing that the shepherd can be so good. But eventually, as she sees the shepherd pouring out his energies for the good of his flock, she comes to trust him, for she sees that he loves his sheep unconditionally and sacrificially.
Each chapter of Sammy and His Shepherd is an exploration of a passage from Psalm 23. As they work through the book, children will grow in their understanding of the metaphors the psalmist used in composing this beloved poem. But more important, they will gain a deeper appreciation for the one who is the subject of the psalm: the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ. Captivating illustrations by Corey Godbey help Sammy and Precious come to life for children. A special section in the back of the book provides Bible passages, discussion questions, and activities to reinforce the lessons of each chapter.
Reviews (186)
A Wonderful Allegorical Tale about Psalm 23
Sammy and His Shepard is written by Susan Hint and published by Reformation Trust Publishing, and is one of the children’s titles currently offered under this publisher. Susan Hunt is a familiar name in ministry to Children. She is highly acclaimed for his works on the children’s catechism and in ministry to women; she is also the former director of women’s ministry for the Presbyterian Church in America. Sammy and His Shepard is an tale which explains in narrative form Psalm 23. Unlike most of the other children’s books currently produced by Reformation Trust, Sammy and His Shepard is not aimed at the youngest of children, rather it is best read by or to a child age five and older. Sammy and His Shepard has two key strengths the content and the illustration. With regard to the content, Sammy and His Shepard Hunt goes to great lengths in imparting the truths of God’s Word important truths to young children without dumbing the Truth down. Which is uncommon among most children’s books being made today, though all of Reformation Trust Publishing are notable exceptions. The truth Hunt communicates is the simplicity and depth of the Gospel, as shown in Psalm 23. Another important item to note is that the book is long in length 56 pages and is therefore divided up into chapters, but those chapters are at max a page or so in length. In regard to the illustration Sammy and His Shepard, has bright colors and is expertly drawn so that it not only captures a child’s attention but their imagination as well. Furthermore the illustrations not only illustrate the allegorical tale but advance the narrative in a way mere words cannot. This book was provided to me free of charge from Reformation Trust Publishing in exchange for an unbiased, honest review. Sammy and His Shepard © 2006 by Susan Hunt Publisher: Reformation Trust Page Count: 56 Pages ISBN-13: 978-1567691092
Very good addition to childrens' library
This book really fleshes out the sheep/shepherd metaphor that the Bible uses for us. It taught me something about how sheep function and why having a good shepherd is so important. Somethings I had heard in sermons - like that sheep are completely defenseless - but the book talks about how sheep can be "cast down" or turned on their backs. They need someone to turn then right or they will die. By going through such detailed pieces about sheep it made the shepherd metaphor in the Bible even more impactful. It is also very beautiful and has an excellent plot. These were definite "wishes" on my list from Christian's literature and this delivered. From the book I figured it would just go over Psalm 23 piece by piece, which it does. However, it goes much deeper, delving into grace and why we help others as Christians. However, it never suggests work based salvation, which is something I was very concerned about. Cons: It was a little lengthy in each piece. When reading I would have to break it up. However, each chapter has so much truth that this is not a problem.
Trusting Your Sheperd
This is a well written book about a sheep named Sammy that shares his testimony with a struggling sheep named Precious. The way Susan Hunt uses sheep as pictures of the Christian walk will really help children to understand the sweet peace that comes through trusting in Christ who is our Sheperd. The entire book is based on a line by reading of the Lords Prayer and each point is described as the story unfolds. It is really quite emotional. The beautiful illustration by Cory Godbey are a real compliment to what Susan is trying to do. The choice of colors used is amazing in the way that it really captures the mood. Soft yet descriptive. The book uses the ESV version of the Bible instead of the King James, but you can always go to the King James for the correct meaning. It is hard not to feel for the sheep named Precious as she, like most new Christians, learns not to trust in her fears. She must now trust her faithful Sheperd who loves her and protects her, even if she doesn't understand what He is trying to do at the time. I would recommend this book for children of all ages. The lessons from this book are top-notch and I want this book in our children's ministry. Review by Mick McArt Author, Tales of Wordishure [...] May 31, 2010
A "must have" for every family bookshelf!
If you are a parent who is trying to raise their child to love Jesus then you've no doubt faced the obstacles of communicating deep theological truths to your child in a way that will not only be understandable to them, but in a way that will be meaningful to them as they grow and have an impact on their choices in life. My wife and I are ALWAYS on the lookout for tools and helps to assist us in communicating the truths of the Gospel to our children. This is a fantastic book to help your children understand how God cares for His children. It is the story of Sammy, a sheep with a good Shepherd. He meets a friend and throughout the story he is explaining to his friend how Christ redeems and loves us even though we do nothing to merit that love. The whole story is an exposition of truths found in Psalm 23 and written in a way that young children can understand. At the end of every chapter there is a discussion section that will help you lead your children in a discussion over the symbols in the book as they relate to Biblical truth. Absolutely fantastic and absolutely something that every family should have on their bookshelf!
Excellent book for children
This breaks down the 23rd Psalm for children to understand and relate to. As a grown up it was an encouragement to me when I read it. So glad to be giving this as a gift. I will probably buy another one to give when the opportunity presents itself.
Precious boom!
I love this book! Bought it after hearing it read in my daughters kindergarten class. Their memory verse was psalm 23. They were reading this book during devotion time. I then bought one for a teacher gift. I even recommended the book to a friend. It helped me have new perspective on an old verse.
Buy this book!
This is a wonderful book. I started teaching my 5 and 7 year old memorization of Psalm 23 and this book helped to explain each verse to them in a way that they could understand.
Beautiful Gospel centric
Our family loves this sweet story of the sheep who knows Jesus. The Gospel is centered in this kids story, and the artwork is beautiful. I now give this book as gifts at baby showers and baptisms!
Wonderful
Love this book!!! I buy a copy for every new family with children at church.
Great book
We purchased this book because my son was getting ready to learn about psalm 23 in Sunday school and we thought it would help reinforce what he was learning. He absolutely loved the stories, and couldn't wait to find out what was happening next. Also, the illustrations are beautiful! After going through it twice (one or two short chapters per night), he has the entire psalm memorized! Btw, he just turned 4. He has also started thanking God for being our shepherd usually along with an attribute from the psalm during his prayers. It has been so wonderful to watch the Lord work in my child's heart through his understanding gained from this book. Definitely worth every penny and then some! I think this would also be a great Sunday school resource for preschool/young gradeschool age, the chapters are short enough and the questions provided with each chapter are very helpful. All around a great book!
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