The Beloved Son and His Brother

by Katie Schuermann

Jacob Truman has a big family, and he loves being a brother almost as much as being a son. But his allegiance to his family is tested when Stanley Stern, a feisty neighbor boy, arrives with a promise of friendship on his lips and a playful puppy in his arms. Jacob must learn that the best of friendships comes only through the greatest of sacrifices.

128 pages, Hardcover

First published May 21, 2025

About the author

Katie Schuermann is "a first-class storyteller” (Cameron MacKenzie, 2023) whose “earthy and joyful” (Mark A. Miller, 2014) voice is as refreshing and invigorating as the Midwestern sunshine in which she was raised. Writing in vignettes which so perfectly suit the charm of small-town life, Schuermann's stories call to mind the warmth and realism of Montgomery's Avonlea as well as the grounded sense of place and community of Berry’s Port William.

When not writing, Schuermann can be found singing, gardening, cooking, holding babies, or trying to climb the nearest tree.

Reviews

[Shel · Rating 5 out of 5]

These are the kind of books I want to read to my children. The ones I want them to fall in love with. The books they will remember and cherish. Beautiful stories woven with our faith. God’s love and mercy mixed with examples of how we should live. Stories that will make you giggle and tear up from on page to the next.

[Richard Bicknase · Rating 5 out of 5]

But did you know that they are adopted, as well? [. . .] into the family of God. Oh, yes! It is true. For that is how God makes all of us one big family. He adopts us as His children in Baptism. He washes us clean by water and the Word, and He puts His own name upon us.
~~~~~
A shining strength of Schuermann's writing is how every detail is carefully considered and placed. This results in a story that is simple enough on the surface to be understood by a young child, but deep enough in its references and allusions that it can be grown into, gain meaning over time, and even make a grown man cry over being reminded of the depths of God's love for us.

In Baptism, God has adopted us as His own beloved children.
This is most certainly true.

[Corinne Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful story, even better than book one. Follow Jacob as he learns to love and be loved. An excellent option to read aloud with the whole family.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author truly understands what makes little boys tick, the insecurities, the hurt of betrayals by so-called friends, not always being able to verbalize your feelings. But, also the boundless curiosity, the good feeling that comes from taking care of others, and the joy of the outdoors and warm puppies. She infuses her story with the warmth and power of God’s love woven throughout a compelling plot. All of which to say, she has the right ingredients for a timeless story that appeals to a ten-year-old boy who would rather be outside romping with his dog than reading a book. My son was gifted an early edition by his teacher on the last day of school and is already on his second time through. Once I finished the first book in the series, he allowed me to borrow it for the afternoon to read so we could talk about it. We didn’t even need the discussion guide! Wonderful book!

[Madelyn Craig · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful sequel to the first book. I did stumble a few times when reading the German aloud 😅, but I and my children greatly enjoyed this story. I look forward to the next book!

[Jodie Werner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful! It made me smile, and shed a tear! Absolutely love!

[Amy Crawford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Katie Schuermann has penned a remarkable story that features beautiful storytelling, lyrical language and - most importantly - a Christ-focused message. Her creative approach in this series is unlike anything you've ever read, and you don't want to miss it! Buy this book for your church, your classroom, your Godchildren, your home library! All ages will adore this lovely story, the incredible illustrations and the message that points us to the One who saves us.

[Amanda Winkelman · Rating 5 out of 5]

My daughter and I read this together- which is why it took so long…but it is an excellent story and I love the concept of these books. Stories with a purpose to discuss and teach faith are valuable and powerful.