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.
The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is perfect
Children ages 4 and upFamily devotions and bedtime readingDiscussions about the meaning of Psalm 23, the parable of the lost sheep, and how God is always with usSunday school lessons and church librariesEaster baskets, baptism or First Communion gifts, birthday gifts, and other gift-giving opportunities?
The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep by Hannah E. Harrison I loved this story about the Stubborn Sheep who ran away from the Shepherd who wanted to give him a haircut. P.S. my bunnies also loved the story ❤️
This is a very cute story about a sheep named George who doesn't agree with the shepherd's way of taking care of him. He runs away and finds himself in danger.
This children's book is well-written and illustrated. It resembles the Biblical story of the lost sheep and the shepherd. The story teaches the reader about sheep and what goes into caring for them. The Biblical aspect of the story comes through beautifully and teaches about love and trust.
Children of all ages will feel the love in the story and that even though they make mistakes, they are still loved. As an adult, I even enjoyed reading it and glancing through all the lovely illustrations, which are colorful and bring a smile to your face.
I received a copy from the publisher; a positive review is not required. 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
I now share a birthday with a beautiful new picture book by one of the kindest and most talented authors and illustrators I know. I got to celebrate my 40th as this gem of a book made its debut. Hannah Harrison creates the most simple stories that always evoke such thoughtful conversations with young readers. Like all of her other books, The Good Shepherd tells a story that readers of any age can connect with and does it in such a beautifully artistic way. Her illustrations have so much emotion and could probably tell the story all on their own. But then the words come in and make you giggle, smile, and stop and think. This book in particular is relatable and adorable no matter your beliefs, but if you’re a Christian, it delivers a gentle reminder that our Shepherd is always near, ready to bring us back home again. I loved sharing this story with my daughter tonight when she asked what I wanted to do for my birthday.
What a fun and creative way to share about God's unconditional love. In this story George the sheep makes a run for it when it is time to be sheared. Even though he was happy while cared for by the Good Shepherd. What he didn't know was that his journey would be full of danger, disappointment. It's not long before he soon learns why he needs the shepherd. I love the message this story gives us. Such a wonderful way to present the message of Psalm 23 in a way children can understand. This is a great way to have family time and to share God's message and love at the same time. It would be great to include in Sunday School Lessons as well as gift to any family. We really loved this story. It is worth sharing. With a powerful heartwarming message. Enjoy the adventure together.
The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep Was such a delight to read. First of all, kids will love the engaging illustrations and fun story, all while learning about our own Good Shepherd.
Adults will love it too! Sweet Mabel. She was an adorable little sheep but a bit stubborn. I don’t know about you - but I can definitely relate to the stubborn part 😂.
All in all this is a fantastic read just in time for Easter. Highly recommend!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*chef's kiss* And that my friends is how to author and illustrate a children's book! I loved it for so many reasons. Here are a few:
1. The illustrations are beautiful!
2. I learned some new things about sheep while reading this.
3. The story teaches a lesson, but doesn't outright tell you what to think or how to interpret.
4. It can be just read as a story and it's good, but it provides so many places where you can open up a conversation with children while or after you read.
5. The expressive, cute, and quirky sheep make me happy.
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.
Go ahead admit it, you’ve been that stubborn sheep at least once in your life.
This lovely picture book will capture your heart as author Hannah E. Harrison upfolds the biblical message in the familiar passage of Psalm 23.
Meet George the sheep with frizzy hair, a poor sense of direction, no top teeth and he cannot even growl or roar. It’s wool shearing time and George runs off and hides, all because he doesn’t want a haircut. George thinks he knows what’s best but he’ll soon find out otherwise.
Things aren’t going so well for George and he realizes he should have listened to his shepherd, and now he’s facing down a wolf with only his cute little hooves and a quiet baaa as defense.
Of course we know the shepherd finds George and cradles the shivering lamb in his arms back to the safety of the fold.
Children will fall in love with George and become completely absorbed in this beautifully illustrated picture book.
The text and pictures aren’t frightening and one may even find them to be at times a bit humorous.
The hero is the shepherd embodying out Lord and Savior who is always there to help us. And boy don’t we all need Him!
I like how the shepherd knows his sheep by name and calls George by name, reminding us that our relationship with God is personal.
You can further the message by reading on the last page the text of Psalm 23.
For further reference, is a list of relatable biblical passages.
The end pages portray a knitted green background putting one in the mind of a knitted woolen scarf.
Harrison’s delightful picture book invites young readers into the biblical metaphor of the Good Shepherd, fleshing out the ideas presented in Psalm 23. The first portion of the book emphasizes the silliness of the sheep and their tendency to get themselves into trouble, when left to their own devices. In the second part of the book, we see this happen to George when he decides that he would rather not participate in the seasonal shearing. When all seems lost, the Good Shepherd comes to his rescue.
After the story, there’s a page with the complete text of Psalm 23, as well as a list of additional Scripture references about shepherds and sheep. Such an excellent resource!
What I Liked
Narrative
Harrison’s narrative is well-suited to its intended audience, as the book begins with some simple explanations about sheep and how they behave. Readers learn that sheep are disaster-prone, especially when following the example of a bad leader. For instance, we see the whole herd of sheep following Mabel (who has an especially “terrible sense of direction”) over a cliff.
George’s narration is humorous in its directness, and endearing in its innocence. The little lamb is matter-of-fact, and his adorable illustration makes him even more likable. George presents his adventure with humility, sharing about his helplessness in a very scary situation– and the goodness of the Good Shepherd.
I really appreciate the versatility of the story. While The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is marketed as a depiction of Psalm 23, it is also beautifully illustrative of various other passages about the Good Shepherd. For instance, illustrations show that the Good Shepherd left behind the other sheep to find George when he went “astray” (see Isaiah 53:6, also cited as the book’s epigraph). We also see the Good Shepherd carrying George (Isaiah 40:11), and we see him rescuing George from a wolf (John 10:12).
Of course, the emphasis on Psalm 23 is also strong. George describes his relationship with the Good Shepherd on the last page, with language that clearly echoes the words of David. Powerfully, the final illustration shows that the wolf is still lurking in the shadows (likely an allusion to the “valley of the shadow of death”), but the lambs follow the Good Shepherd– safe and secure as long as they are with him.
Illustrations
Harrison is author and Illustrator of this positively delightful children’s book, and her heartwarming illustrations bring out not only the words, but also the soul, of the story. George is absolutely adorable and sure to tug at the reader’s heartstrings. While lambs are generally cute to begin with, George stands out for his darling expressions of innocence and trust.
Harrison’s art also capitalizes on the story’s humor: in the scene with the lambs dog-piling on Mabel, or “nervously running around in a clump.” My favorite humorous illustration is the scene where George decides that he “looks pretty good” at shearing time. Spoiler: He looks ridiculous.
But, my favorite scene of all is the moment of rescue. Muddied and wet, George snuggles under the Good Shepherd’s vest. This moment especially catches my attention because of the fond memories it evokes for me of cuddling with my dogs. And, the depiction of complete dependence is so beautiful.
Recommendation Status
Scriptures about the Good Shepherd are some of my very favorite in the Bible (and John 10 is the life-changing passage my mom shared with me that led to my becoming a Christian)! And it’s hard to beat the adorableness of a picture book with a lamb for a protagonist.
Tender and heartfelt, The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is an absolutely lovely depiction of the Christian life: demonstrating our dependence on Jesus and His goodness, kindness, and faithfulness. Rich thematic content and irresistible illustrations make this a great choice for readers of all ages, and especially as a family read.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.
The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is a delightful children's picture book with an important story. Hannah E. Harrison explain how George, the fluffy white sheep relies upon the shepherd to take care of him. In fact, the entire flock of sheep rely on the shepherd to care for them. George, the narrator, of the story, explains how sheep are basically completely defenseless, have no sense of direction, and follow one another no matter where they go-- even if the one in front of the flock walks over the edge of a cliff. When the shepherd wants to give George a haircut, George gets worried and runs away. Only, George finds himself alone in the dark in unforeseen territory with no comprehension how to escape from the clutches of the world which has found George out alone at night in the dark. What will George do?
This wonderful book contains vividly detailed illustrations which help young readers follow along with the story. Many lessons can be learned from reading this book-- including trusting God for security from unpredictable challenges and obstacles. Parents will love reading this book with their young children and can help them with understanding the basic Biblical principles which accompany it.
The soft artistry of the illustrations in The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep shows a "modern" shepherd (I'd say sometime in the 1800s-2000s) and his quirky, troublesome fluffy sheep. It's cute. It's true to sheep behavior and shepherd care and attention. And in all of this, it tells the same story from God's Word, the Bible, of the "Good Shepherd" and God's Redemptive Love.
Sheep need a shepherd because they just get themselves into a real fix or jam. Example: sometimes they just fall down and end up on the back. They can't get up. They just simply can't. So there they stay until the wolf or something else endangers them. Unless the shepherd comes along and lifts them back onto their feet.
Sheep also have a way of wandering off and getting themself lost or stuck in places they can't get out of. Then the shepherd comes along and finds them.
In this delightful book, we see a stubborn sheep that get's himself into a real jam.
As in the Bible story, this retelling will help children understand how their good shepherd seeks them out and finds them. He rescues them and saves them.
I just love this sweet book for both the illustrations and story.
I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
Hannah E. Harrison's The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep: A Story of God's Redemptive Love teaches children about God's unending love. During the first part of the book, the sheep get into all kinds of trouble. The mighty shepherd soon arrives to rescue and guide his sheep. One sheep runs away from the shepherd after deciding he doesn't want to be sheared. It doesn't take him long to realize that things aren't so good without his shepherd. He is threatened one night by a lone wolf while tangled in a bramble of thorns. In the face of an angry wolf, he is defenseless. When all seems lost, the sheep sees a bright light in the distance. His sheep cried for help, so the shepherd came to his rescue. In no time, the sheep understood that he was lost without the guidance and care of his shepherd. This story teaches children the importance of trusting and relying on God's guidance. It illustrates that even when they stray or make mistakes, they can always return to the loving embrace of the Father who want the best for them. The tale reinforces the idea that seeking help and trusting in a protector's wisdom leads to safety and happiness. The book is based on Psalm 23.
Oh I just love this book! I was excited to share it with you.
Psalm 23 is so familiar and yet I can always learn something new from it. A book like this is perfect to share this Psalm with a child and have a discussion about sheep and shepherds and then discuss how we are all like sheep and Who we have as our Shepherd. You could also tie it into the parable of the lost sheep in the Bible. You can talk about what characteristics we've had like George the sheep.
I love the beautiful illustrations and the cute sheep. We read a lot of children's books, and this is definitely a new favorite for me. The text and illustrations are fabulous! I hope you will check it out for your family library or for a gift for a little one in your life. Sometimes I give away my books away, but this is one I will be keepig for my library shelf! It definitely gets 5 stars from me! (That doesn't happen too often.)
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.
"The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep" is from the point of view of George, a sheep. He talks about what life is like for sheep and why they need a shepherd. But he runs away because he doesn't want a haircut; he like how he looks. He soon regrets his decision (dirty hair, danger, etc.), but it's the good shepherd that seeks him out and brings him home. George is grateful and now trusts that the shepherd wants what's best for him.
The pictures are very nicely done, illustrating the text while also being interesting to look at. George presents things in a humorous way, even when he's threatened by a scary wolf at the end and he can't save himself. (Don't worry, the shepherd saves him!). Psalm 23 is written on the last page. Overall, I think my nieces will enjoy this story, so I bought a copy to give to them.
I received a free ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Then I bought it.
The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is a sweet picture book that retells the 23rd Psalm through a story of George, an adorable and stubborn sheep. I love the spiritual message and the nostalgic illustrations.
Avoiding sheering day, George gets himself into a dangerous situation. It is then that he realizes that the Good Shepherd loves him and is always there for him.
George is adorable, innocent, fun, and even stubborn at times. This gives the story a humorous twist to this light Bible story retelling that showcases the importance of our trust in God’s love, care, comfort, and mercy to young and old readers alike.
First Lines: Hello, I’m George. I’m just your average grass-grazing sheep. Genre: Children, Farm Animals Author: Hannah E. Harrison Page Count: 40 Reading Age: 3-8
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% my own.
I loved this fun story about a stubborn little sheep named George and the kind shepherd who saved him. The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is filled with bright, colorful illustrations of cuddly sheep, a frightening wolf, and a protective shepherd dedicated to protecting his flock but its true charm comes from the entertaining and inspiring story. Children may laugh at George's antics, but they'll also learn about guidance and protection.
This book targets children, but it's a fantastic choice for the entire family. Read it with your children, discuss the importance of rules and obedience, and compare George's story to the biblical concepts found in the parable of the lost sheep and the 23rd Psalm. Kudos to author and illustrator Hannah E. Harrison!
I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher via FrontGate Women's Blogger Network. There was no obligation for a positive review.
The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is an absolutely precious, fun, and appropriate way of communicating Psalm 23 to children in a very tangible way. The subtext among the sheep added an element of humor. The illustrations were cute and engaging, and the storytelling was perfect. However, I wish more parallel was pointed out regarding us as Christians/people as the sheep and the Lord as the Good Shepherd - even just a two-sentence paragraph near the end. The text of Psalm 23 and other scripture references on page 37 were appreciated.
I did note a few grammatical errors, but overall, this is a fantastic book for children, and I will be buying a hard copy to read to my grandchildren.
Thank you to NetGalley, Zonderkidz, and Hannah E. Harrison for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
A stubborn sheep can get himself into all kinds of trouble very quickly, but the shepherd is always searching for the lost one, ready to help at just the right time. Sound familiar? As this lovely story shows, sheep are completely helpless to care for themselves (as are we), but they have a caring shepherd. The artwork is gorgeous as well as humorously accurate. George is just adorable, and children will quickly relate to him and his story. The tie-in to Psalm 23 and other scripture gives the adult reader an easy way to teach children about the Lord, their Shepherd. This book would make a beautiful gift. Highly recommend! “He’s a good Shepherd. He’s MY Shepherd. And I’ll follow him for all of my days.” *I received a complimentary copy of this e-book courtesy of Zonderkidz through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
My review will be live on my blog - donnasbookblog on 4 February 2025 - Publication day!
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!
Our family LOVED The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep by Hannah E. Harrison! Not only are there beautiful illustrations from front to back, but when it's combined with Scirpture-inspired verse, it made me reach for a tissue! This story is a fantastic way to start conversations with your children about our sinfulness and Christ's purity and love. His love and mercy and grace are written all over this story, and I'm so glad I could share it with my boys. There is even a page in the back with Psalm 23 and several other shepherd/sheep inspired verses to look up and read. Overall, this is an excellent addition to my children's bookshelf. Any time I can find a tool to help me illustrate God's Word and His character so beautifully, I am excited and thankful!
I really love The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love by Hannah E. Harrison! The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love is beautifully written and illustrated book that really shows young ones and adults alike how God rescues us and how His Love for us is unconditional. I love how the Author shows through the sheep the types of trouble we can get in and sometimes how we are a repeat offender in our mistakes, but that God still loves us through it all. The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love is a great story to read anytime and I highly recommend it! Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. My review is also on Goodreads.
This is an excellent story of comparing sheep and shepherds in an analogy with people and God. The little sheep, George, did not want to follow the shepherd at first because he was uncertain of getting a haircut and he liked his hair. George defied the shepherd and ran away, but even when George was in trouble the Shepherd came for him and helped him. This would be a great story to read to a young child who is learning about God. I would recommend this book to ages 2-8. The illustrations are very nicely done and my young children really enjoyed the pictures along with the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Zonderkidz for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story, the illustrations, the book design and cover, I love it all.
It presents the parable from the Bible of the Good Shepherd and the Lost Sheep in a more modern, casual, and sometimes humorous way.
The little sheep George decides he doesn't want a haircut, so runs away. His wool grows and grows, soon he is too heavy to move properly and gets stuck in a thornbush. Just as the sheep thinks all hope is lost, the Good Shepherd appears calling him by name, saving the little lost sheep.
It's a beautiful story and very well executed. Children will love this adaptation of the age-old tale.
The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep by Hannah E. Harrison is a look at the 23rd Psalm from the viewpoint of a young sheep. The sheep loves his Shepherd but when it's time for shearing, the sheep takes a hard pass and runs away. Life without the Shepherd is difficult and even dangerous. But just when the Sheep thinks he's trapped, the Good Shepherd is there to rescue and heal him. Harrison's illustrations are soft and charming. They help keep the story lighthearted and prevent it from getting too scary for young children when the sheep is in trouble. The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep will make a good storytime read or will work well as a discussion starter.
Inspired by Psalm 23, this beautiful picture book portrays the relationship between a stubborn sheep and his loving shepherd.
😇𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗘𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿!😇
When George the sheep decides he doesn’t want a haircut, he runs away and becomes lost. A sheep in the wild is vulnerable and danger lurks nearby. Thankfully, George’s kind and devoted shepherd comes to the rescue!
Stunning illustrations and a hopeful message with a hint of humor will delight adults and children alike. This book is definitely a treasure to read all year long!
I received a gifted copy of this book in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
A definite favorite! It has to be the cutest picture book I've ever read -- I'm NOT kidding!
Perfect for Easter, Christmas, or anytime of year. It teaches young ones that we must trust and follow God -- even when we don't see the way ourselves, or understand the path before us. The words from Psalm 23 are woven in to the story, which I love. The illustrations all throughout are just beautiful.
Overall, this book is adorable, funny, AND spiritual! What more could you ask for from a children's picture book? I definitely recommend it!
I truly, truly loved this book. The story and illustrations were exceptional. It was great to see a different portrayal of the Shepard and his lost sheep. In life it is often those "little" acts of defiance that get us into so much trouble and when realize the problem we go looking for help in many of the wrong places. Jesus, our great Shepard, is always there to rescue us even when we are stubborn and find ourselves lost and in trouble. Psalms 23 is included in the back of the book and aids in teaching children the story of our great Shepard.
A very endearing book about Psalm 23. And the New Testament, the lost sheep. Our sheep in our story is named George. He is a very funny sheep. Your and your child will laugh about his silliness. You both will also be reminded again what the good shepherd means for each of us. Loved this one. Getting this for my grandson.
A special thank you to Zonderkidz and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.