Sammy and His Shepherd
by Susan Hunt

This lovely hardcover, published by Reformation Trust (a division of Ligonier Ministries), contains beautiful illustrations by Cory Godbey.  The story revolves around Psalm 23.

Each of the eleven chapters is devoted to a verse, or portion of a verse, from Psalm 23.  They tell the story of a sheep named Sammy, and illustrate the meaning of each portion of the Scriptural passage.  Sammy is contrasted with his Friend on the other side of the fence who does not have a loving shepherd to care for her.

Of course the story illustrates God’s tender care for us.  It does an excellent job of illuminating the spiritual truths at the heart of Psalm 23, using accurate descriptions of physical shepherding. Many important doctrines, too, are overtly or subtly illustrated.  These include salvation, the family of God, evangelism, and discipleship.  All of this is done in a manner that even very young children can understand.

A “Talk About It” section follows the story.  This offers additional verses of Scripture to read and questions to ask about the story.  Then it gives “something to do” – a particular suggestion of something to think about and talk to God about.

I cannot recommend this highly enough.  Although it’s especially wonderful for its intended audience – children – I really enjoyed it and was blessed by it, as well.