An Orphan Lamb and a Lonely Girl

I met a new friend, Brenda Ethridge Ferguson, at a writer's conference, and we decided to read one another's books since we both write for children. I asked her to read my middle grade novel, Amena's Quest,and she recommended her book, Ranch Girl and the Orphan Lamb Adventure, which she has just published. I was busy, and it took me a while to get around to reading this little book, but once I picked it up, I was glad I had agreed to read it.

As you know, my books are all written for one purpose--to bring glory to God--and it's hard for me to view other books through any other filter than my Christian world-view. Brenda is also a Christian, but she chooses not to write a specifically Christian message. Yet her Christian world-view is evident in this sweet story of friendship and self-sacrifice.

The story begins with young Kelsi adopting an orphan lamb and struggling through the many trials that arise when caring for such a pet. From bottle-feeding early in the morning, after school, and late at night to keeping the lamb off the manicured lawn and away from the cows, the challenges seem overwhelming at times. Kelsi often feels she is failing at the task but loves the lamb and does not want to lose the privilege of raising him. However, in the end, it's the lamb who risks his life to protect his friend in a frightening and truly dangerous situation.

Christian readers will not miss the correlation between the little lamb and our sacrificial lamb, Jesus. All readers will benefit from the beautiful picture of ranch life--its trials and its rewards--and, even more importantly, will learn about the value of true friendship.

I hope you will get a copy of Ranch Girl and the Orphan Lamb Adventure by Brenda Ethridge Fergusun for a child in your life. Click on the link below to get it. Until then...