I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A sheep frustrated by the fact her shepherd seemingly ignores her at the back of her herd showcases to younger readers the plans and mindset of God and humanity itself in author Deanna Danielle’s “Sheli: A Shepherd and his Sheep”.

The Synopsis

We may wonder at times why God allows brokenness to enter our heart. It has been my experience that when this happens, I am drawn closer to the Lord-our true shepherd-for strength, hope and joy. Sheli is the story of a faithful sheep who can not understand why her shepherd has put her in the back of her fold. As she notices and starts to help the sheep around her, she forgets her own worries and realizes her greater purpose. As you turn the pages of Sheli, may you experience the healing truth of God’s awesome grace and knowledge of the awe inspiring love that He so desperately awaits to give us all!

The Review

This was the best possible read for young children who are being raised in a Christian household and parents who wish to share their faith with their children at an early age. The unique narrative of the sheep and the shepherd is the perfect mirroring of the relationship between God and his believers, and the introspective tone the author strikes with this story for the children and parents reading it was quite insightful.

Two things that stood out to me were the author’s ability to showcase the need for us to find our own footing in life and help others as a theme in this story and the one-of-a-kind artwork that the story utilizes. The art itself reminded me of iconic faith-based art, almost mirroring the style of a Thomas Kincaid piece. Yet it was the theme the author utilized that made this story shine. While I am not particularly religious, the theme of helping and guiding others and finding the strength to stand on our own two feet, whether or not that is in an effort to gain the trust and guidance of God or to be self-sufficient, this theme works for a multitude of different readers.

The Verdict

Thoughtful, emotional, and engaging, author Deanna Danielle’s “Sheli: A Shepherd and his Sheep” is a must-read children’s book and Christian fiction read. The fast-paced narrative and the emotional pull of the sheep to his Shepherd will have younger readers clamoring for more. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

With over twenty years of Christian teaching background, Deanna Danielle has found that the best way to engage her students is through taking scripture and making it relatable in today’s context. She believes that a teacher is not so much responsible for what their students know, but more so for the seeds they plant to help them grow. She wrote Sheli to inspire and help readers discover the hidden treasures within themselves by using modern-day examples of faith.

Deanna Danielle’s previous books include An Ordinary Person, An Extraordinary Gift (recipient of a Mom’s Choice Award), and Christmas Morn. Her greatest joy comes from spending time in prayer and scripture and walking through life with her high-school sweetheart and the wonderful family and friends that God has so graciously blessed them with.

As co-founder and board-member of the non-profit Care Coalition, she has a strong belief in the power of Connecting those in NEED with those who CARE. You can find her blogs, books, video productions, coiffure work and Community outreach information at: https://deannadanielle.com