“Benny loved his forever family, and now he knew he could do all things through Christ too,” Benny realizes about God in Cheryl Rae Johnson's children's book, Benny Learns a Lesson.
~ What ~
The second book of the Benny the Dachshund series, this thirty-eight-page paperback targets children ages three to nine years old who like stories about a dog who learns Christ can help him with all things. With no scary scenes, it focuses on a dachshund who is worried and afraid he has to do something. The end of the book contains the author's and illustrator's biographies.
This tale is about Benny the canine who is adopted by his forever family, who happens to include Holly, a young girl who has to visit the doctor. As both the dog and child pray to God not to be scared, they both learn an important lesson about trusting God. With simplistic, colorful illustrations on the left side of the pages, the right sides have the story in a decent size font.
~Why ~
This series is spot on by having both an animal and child praying to God for help, especially when it involves doing something that makes them apprehensive. I love how Holly's mother promotes trusting in God to help as He is always with us.
~ Why Not ~
Those who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ may not approve of a book that encourages praying to and trusting God. Others may not like that a dog thinks he can do anything with God's assistance as the creature is not a true Christian believer. Beginner readers may have problems with some of the longer sentences.
~ Wish ~
I prefer all pronouns of God capitalized for reverence. A made-up word written several times may confuse new readers.
~ Want ~
If your child has to do something necessary but feels uncomfortable having to do it, this story may help them focus on Christ taking care of them instead of dwelling on the issue or outcome.
Thanks to Elk Lake Publishing and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
