This story can be understood on many different levels. Very young children can relate to the little boy's frustrations and feel empathy for him. They can vicariously feel his joy at the end. With adult discussion, they can begin and continue to grow in understanding all the other levels of interest in the text and illustrations as the book is read and reread each Christmas season.
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A Certain Small Shepherd
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings(Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)
Not age appropriate for kids under 4, age appropriate for kids over 5; suggested age 5. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Mute boy's Christmas play becomes strangely real.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 5 and Up
The good stuff
What to watch out for
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Violence & scariness:
What Parents Need to Know
About A Certain Small Shepherd
Parents need to know that there's nothing objectionable here. It's a religious story, so parents may want to read it first to see if it conflicts with their own beliefs.
Read our full review by Matt Berman
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about Jamie's behavior -- why does he act out and throw tantrums? Why isn't he able to talk? Why might a teacher be reluctant to teach a child who can't talk? The ending is also worth discussing: What does Jamie do that causes the miracle, and is it indeed a miracle?
Our Members Say
Most Recent Reviews
- I rate this title on for age 5 and give it
Text Combined with Illustrations Make a Moving Story
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