Frog’s Rainy-Day Story and Other Fables

Reviewed by:

G. Connor Salter, Professional Writing alumnus from Taylor University, Upland, IN.

Author:

written by Michael James Dowling, illustrated by Sarah Buell Dowling

Publisher:

Carpenter’s Son Publishing

Publication Date:

October 1, 2019

Format:

Hardcover

Length:

72 pages

OVERVIEW

Husband and wife team Michael and Sarah Dowling present a series of eight fables, each featuring talking animals (from frogs to hens to rabbits). Some of these talking animals need to change their ways, others strive to teach others around them something important. In every case, the story ends with a phrase that sums up the fable’s moral and a page showing “Wisdom of the World” (quotes by as opposed to “Wisdom of the Word” (relevant Bible verses).

Many people write stories about talking animals, but it takes a certain touch to make animal characters that stand out from the pack. On top of that, it’s hard to write fables that really make the moral message shine through while also having compelling characters. This book’s creators hit both targets very successfully. Sarah Buell Dowling’s painted illustrations are a particular treat to behold. A rare book of fables that relates good teachings without becoming overly didactic.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5 stars)

4 stars

Suggested Audience

Christian parents with children ages 4 to 8. 

Christian Impact

Children and parents will equally benefit from each fable’s lesson and the way each lesson contrasts between worldly and Biblical ideas.