The Good Farmer and the Worried Donkey is an honest and heartwarming picture book that reminds us that we are not alone and God is our strength. This story beautifully captures the essence of Matthew 11 (“his yoke is easy and his burden is light”) and the parable of the sower.
Charlie is a small donkey who works for the miller, but he’s not the strongest and he sometimes makes the miller mad. When a farmer comes and takes Charlie to a beautiful farm, Charlie worries that if he disappoints the farmer, the farmer will no longer want him. But Charlie is in for a surprise, because his farmer is a Good Farmer who is patient, wise, understanding, and strong. Through both touching and humorous moments, Charlie learns about his special place on the farm and why he can trust the Good Farmer with his worries.
The Bible is full of references to seeds, wheat, and farming, but what do those stories tell us about the attributes of God? Or how can we learn to rely on God? In a time when anxiety rates among children are on the rise, The Good Farmer and the Worried Donkey uses a relatable character and a riveting story to bring biblical truth to life for kids and illustrate how we can cast our cares on God.
From Hannah Harrison, the author and illustrator of Christlit Book Award winning and ECPA bestselling The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep, The Good Farmer and the Worried Donkey is perfect for:
- children ages 4 and up
- family devotions and bedtime reading
- discussions about what it means to have a burden and a yoke, the meaning of the parable of the sower, and the importance of casting your cares on God
- Sunday school lessons and church libraries
- fall and harvest celebrations and gift giving occasions
MY THOUGHTS.....
This book's description mentions younger children as its target audience, but I recommend it for all ages! The Good Farmer and the Worried Donkey is a beautifully written story that parallels the parable of the sower mentioned in Matthew 11. Jesus was known for his parables, or storytelling, and author Hannah E. Harrison captures His essence perfectly. Charlie the donkey has been treated cruelly by his former master but soon learns that kindness still exists. His new owner showers him with patience and understanding, and Charlie finally has peace and contentment!
Charlie knows he's about to get in trouble again for being slow. When a man comes to purchase him, he wonders:
""Why he wants me, I can't imagine."
The Good Farmer and the Worried Donkey is filled with biblical truths, scripture that supports the story, and Bible verses for worried donkeys or worried people. As I thumbed through the book, I was reminded that we don't have to carry heavy burdens alone. Charlie had the good farmer but we have a loving Father in Heaven. Such a powerful faith message!
Charlie knows that he can't carry the loaded down cart.
The farmer assures him ""You're my donkey...and the yoke is mine."
There is so much to love about this book! It has beautiful pictures, text that children will understand, and relatable objects that illustrate the story. Reading it as a family offers children reassurance and encouragement. They will be loved even if they make mistakes! The Good Farmer and the Worried Donkey is a wonderful addition to a church library and a perfect gift for birthdays or Christmas!
Charlie is filled with joy! He knows that this Good Farmer is his Farmer, his strength and salvation!
Charlie will happily walk with his Good Farmer anywhere.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via FrontGate Media. There was no obligation for a favorable review.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
#goodfarmer #hannaheharrison #zonderkidz #kidsbooks
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hannah E. Harrison is the author and illustrator of six award-winning picture books, including Extraordinary Jane, My Friend Maggie, and Poopsie Gets Lost. Her books have received numerous starred reviews, been chosen as Kirkus Books of the Year and Editors’ Picks on Amazon, and have been selected for book clubs. Hannah is originally from New Hampshire, but now lives in Oklahoma with her big-hearted husband, two delightful daughters, a crabby cat, and a playful pup.
Learn more by visiting her Website
These two books are perfect companions!
The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love
The Good Farmer and the Worried Donkey: A Story About Finding Peace in God's Strength