Heart of a Shepherd
by Rosanne Parry
Juvenile Fiction
Realistic Fiction
* * * Stars (Pretty good)
Heart of a Shepherd is a touching and memorable story of family loyalty and faith. Ignatius “Brother” Alderman, nearly twelve, is in charge of the family ranch when his father leaves for Iraq with his Army Reserve Unit. Birthing calves, raising newborn lambs, and fighting wildfires are all part of a rancher’s duty, and Brother accepts it all courageously. He is committed to doing his father’s work on the family ranch while his father is in Iraq. However, he struggles with a feeling that he must go a completely different direction with his life. Through difficult circumstances, Brother learns that family is important, but it’s also important to follow your heart.
Grade level recommendation: 4-8 Lexile: 850
Reviewed by Anne Kunzen, Youth Services Staff
