The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love
by Hannah E. Harrison
Publisher: Zonderkidz
Series: None
Rated: 3
Obtain: Borrow
Back of the Book: “The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is a humorous and heartwarming picture book about God's unconditional love. This story beautifully captures the essence of Psalm 23, showing the importance of trusting God, our Good Shepherd, with our lives. Meet George, a silly and sometimes stubborn sheep living happily under the care of a Good Shepherd. But when shearing time comes, George decides it’s time to make a run for it, and soon finds himself on a journey full of unexpected disappointment, discomfort, and danger. Ultimately, he finds rescue and learns why he really does need a shepherd. The Bible is full of references to sheep and shepherds, but what does it mean to be a good shepherd? And how are we like sheep? The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep uses an unforgettable character and riveting story to bring biblical truth to life for kids and illustrate the many comforting and loving attributes of God.”

Impressions: This entertaining, fun story shares why sheep need a shepherd. I was disappointed however that it didn’t make note of who the sheep and shepherd are in this metaphor. We are the sheep, and the Lord is our shepherd. Psalm 23 is shared on the last page but for little ones, the connection might not be made. This was a fun story to read but it was not intentional enough to put it on our bookshelf. I do love the illustrations and fun added blurbs.

Thank you NetGalley for an ARC to review. All opinions are my own.

This is a marvelous insight into the perception of the 23rd Psalm told as a story of one loving shepherd and an unruly member of his flock. Who could easily be any one of us! Perfect!
The illustrations by the author are a lovely rendition of the characters, delightful, colorful, and fun!
Well suited for reading WITH someone of ANY age including ESL, and great for gifting to anyone, but especially to a school, parish, synagogue, or your local public library!
I requested and received a temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions provided by Zonderkidz via NetGalley. Thank you! Avail Feb 04, 2025
#TheGoodShepherdAndTheStubbornSheep #NetGalley @Zonderkidz #Psalm23 #KidLit #PictureBooks

Such a unique, funny and insightful take on the story of the Lost Sheep from the sheep’s perspective! Absolutely stunning illustrations. Will definitely be adding to our library!

My only critique would be that Jesus/the Shepherd could be more culturally accurate. Still such a creative way to tell this story, though!

Thank you so much to Net Galley, Zonderkidz and the author for the eARC!

I thought that this book was superb - there is nothing I can fault here.

The story is one that is well known and this is an excellent retelling for children. The layout of the book was perfect, it made the story easy to read, it was nice and clear and the text size was perfect for younger readers.

The illustrations in the book are wonderful and they do a brilliant job of bringing the story to life and they definitely add to the story overall too.

It is 5 stars from me for this one, my daughter attends a Catholic Primary School and I have recommended that a copy of this is purchased by them when it is released as it was a pleasure to read - very highly recommended!

This is adorable - we learn all about George, who is self-described as an average grass-grazing sheep. The book is tongue-in-cheek and shows why the sheep need a caring shepherd to look after them. The images of lost sheep rushing about in groups are just beautiful. George decides to run away, and his coat grows so long that it covers his eyes, and he can't see very well. Poor old George gets very lost, can't find his way back and is scared by a snapping wolf. He even tries to swim and then remembers that sheep can't swim. George is, however, saved by the shepherd, and he goes happily back with him to have his coat snipped short.
The book ends with psalm 23 and whilst the book doesn't make the saving grace of God overt, it was a joy to talk around this when reading with my little one, The pictures are lovely and well coloured, and the book gives plenty of scope to talk about God and the need for comfort and that he will always come and find us and save us.

This is a book that captures the heart of the biblical message and is based on Psalm 23.

I love the teaching of Jesus in Luke where the traits of The Good Shepherd are shown in that famous account of the lost sheep. That parable in part is depicted here when George runs off and cannot immediately be found.

I think children will love George and as the pages turn will be completely absorbed in this story which is beautifully illustrated.

The text is humorous and memorable. Easy to follow and can be read along with you.

Like any good children’s book there is the element of danger included here, as the young sheep regrets leaving the safety of the flock and becomes lost in the dark night.

The hero is the shepherd who rescues George just in time. The scared sheep is comforted and made warm.

What struck me and brings a deeper message for me is that the shepherd calls George by name. This resonates with me and reminded me of my personal relationship with God.

So much to share with our little ones. This is not a ram it down your throats story. It isn’t a tract or religious piece, rather a wonderful story of love, hope and security.
There is universal appeal in Psalm 23 and this marvellous book, conveying a delightful story of George the sheep. This will bring the message of that beloved Psalm to a new audience and restore faith in many.

I appreciated the reproduction of Psalm 23, to be read at the end of the book. For further reference, a list of biblical passages that one can look up and read about this subject.