Wells for Shepherds
My retelling of Bible stories helps readers of all ages put themselves in the time and place of the events. One way I do this is to find a child. It can be the child of the biblical story, for example the boy who gave his lunch to Jesus to feed 5000. Or I insert a child where there may have been one. Such as the two brothers who walked by Ezekiel every day as he lay on his side with a clay depiction of Jerusalem before him. Or Sophie, who drew pictures as the apostle John told her of his visions.
An Anthology of reimagined and retold Bible stories and truths
Bonus Story:
Reactions:
I really appreciate the style and design of Wells for Shepherds. I realise that it might seem odd to start with that, but I also have come to recognise how important it is – and how much effort it takes – to get this part right. I also appreciate the first few pages of framing. Again, this might not be what people usually comment on, but I think it does a great job in prompting people toward a healthier understanding of the way children can engage with the Bible – which then will, hopefully, inform their practice as adults engaging with children around the text. In terms of the content itself, I appreciate the clarity and brevity of the individual elements. My observation is that good story-telling – including the use of puppets – is in danger of becoming a lost art in the context of children’s ministry. Through these stories that can be used intergenerationally, I hope people can be encouraged in the re-discovery of the value of such story-telling for all ages.
Chris Barnett, Intergen Victoria
If I had to sum it up in one word it would be captivating. I had to limit myself to one or two a night, so I could make sure to really process the stories, but I wanted to read, and read, and read. I really enjoy that it takes me inside a Bible story, a different view, without distorting or disturbing the truth. I loved the way the puppet play style stories were succinct and effectual in delivering a really concise and convincing way. They seem geared towards younger audiences, but I definitely found myself thinking about ways I could use it, in church and Sunday school etc. The hard part for some, I think more old-school and traditional folks, is the idea that there are Bible stories “re-imagined”, but I think that once people open and start to read, those hesitations will melt away. Thanks Hetty for a wonderful book! Luke
My kinda book! LOVE reading with kids and engaging them in stories about Jesus. M.A.
This anthology can be used in schools, church services, Sunday schools, at home or camps or home fellowship groups. Jo.
Thank you Hetty for creating a book that leads us back to the original text, and creates rich conversations and discussions. K.C.
A great concept! Well done. Jackie
Author’s comment: What do you see when you read your Bible? I’m talking about the mental pictures. When you read of David tending his father’s flock do you feel the breezes and the sheep’s woolly fleece? Do you imagine others in a story, bystanders and onlookers?
My retelling of Bible stories helps readers of all ages put themselves in the time and place of the events. One way I do this is to find a child. It can be the child of the biblical story, for example the boy who gave his lunch to Jesus to feed 5000. Or I insert a child where there may have been one. Such as the two brothers who walked by Ezekiel every day as he lay on his side with a clay depiction of Jerusalem before him. Or Sophie, who drew pictures as the apostle John told her of his visions.
After writing many stories like these I moved onto an older generation, giving a dilemma to an aging, first century, follower of Jesus.
Our one-man publishing business (read, patient spouse) has produced an anthology of these stories as well as puppet scripts, poems and a picture story. Our prayer is that “Wells for Shepherds” will be read by young and old together, that there will be discussion and wondering prompted by the Holy Spirit.
Contact pstok50@gmail.com
EBook available on Amazon, Apple and Kobo
Print book available from me at pstok50@gmail.com for $A25 plus p&p. or at many other book sellers.
Wells for Shepherds 