Since firelight first illuminated gathered faces, people have told stories; their listeners might laugh, be moved to tears, horror, delight, or new understanding. Stories create community, share values and beliefs, sweeten wisdom with humor. Stories become part of a family's inheritance. Shepherd Stories is a collection meant to be part of that experience for children ages 4- 10.

These stories were collected from two shepherds. The first shepherd loves and cares for a flock of sheep. Each evening, he calls his lambs together and tells a story which responds gently to the lambs' experiences that day. The second shepherd, the Good Shepherd, also told stories. His stories have been compiled in a big book; each of the lamb's stories is matched with a story from that book.

Shepherd Stories Volume 4 includes tales of a pair of twin calves who survive a violent thunderstorm by staying together, and a pair of twin goats whose differences lead to safety for one but disaster for the other, plus the story of a young rabbit who sticks to the truth when the evidence seems stacked against him. Paired with each tale is a Bible story that tells of a similar experience: men in a small boat on a stormy sea learn how to survive without panic, a man follows directions that could cost him his freedom and possibly his life, and another man tells the truth despite angry questions from powerful people.

Each pair of stories includes discussion questions to guide "digging deeper" into meaning and personal application. This is the perfect book to enjoy together at bedtime, quiet time, or in a classroom.

Shepherd Stories vol. 4 is part of a five-volume set of engaging stories about badgers and foxes, honeybees, pikes, crayfish and horses, sheep, dogs, a trustworthy bat, a courageous mouse, and many more. Some stories are factual, some more fanciful. Readers will also hear familiar (and less familiar) Bible stories. The abundant, carefully drawn illustrations are richly detailed but left void of color, so young artists can personalize their own copies of these lovely books.