Sammy and His Shepherd
on Goodreads (125)
What’s inside...
In 'Sammy and His Shepherd,' Susan Hunt tells the story of Sammy the sheep, who happily lives under the care of a loving shepherd. Sammy meets Precious, a sheep from another flock, who lives in misery due to a neglectful shepherd. Sammy's shepherd buys Precious and brings her into his flock, where she learns about the shepherd's unconditional love and care. Through their story, children explore Psalm 23 and learn about Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd. The book includes captivating illustrations, Bible passages, discussion questions, and activities to reinforce the lessons.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-8
Length
56 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Sammy’s view of the shepherd change throughout the book? What actions made him trust the shepherd?
What similarities can you find between Sammy's experience and your own life? How does having someone to guide and take care of you make you feel?
Why do you think sharing and helping others was important in the story? How can you apply this in your own life?
If you were one of the sheep in the story, what would you have done differently and why?
What does the idea of 'a green pasture' mean to you? How does it make you feel when you think about such a place?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child to summarize the story in their own words, encouraging them to express their understanding and interpretation.
Show genuine interest in their responses to the questions, affirm their thoughts, and share your perspectives to enrich the discussion.
Relate the shepherd’s guidance in the book to real-life figures in your child’s life, such as family members or teachers, to make the themes more relatable.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios in the story to foster creative thinking and empathy.
Discuss the moral lessons in the book and how they can be incorporated into daily life, reinforcing the values of kindness, trust, and community.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Kindness
Explanation: The story demonstrates empathy and kindness through the interactions between Sammy, the sheep, and his shepherd. Sammy learns to care for others as the shepherd cares for him.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these lessons by helping friends in need, sharing with siblings, and showing compassion to animals and people around them.
Example Lesson: Gratitude
Explanation: Sammy shows gratitude for the shepherd's guidance and protection throughout the book. This helps children see the importance of being thankful for the people who support and guide them.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice gratitude daily by thanking parents, teachers, and friends for their love and support, fostering a positive and appreciative attitude.
Example Lesson: Trust and Reliance
Explanation: The relationship between Sammy and his shepherd is built on trust. Sammy trusts the shepherd to lead him to safety and provide what he needs.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of trusting family members and teachers who look out for their well-being, understanding that it’s safe to rely on those who care for them.
Example Lesson: Following Guidance
Explanation: Throughout 'Sammy and His Shepherd', Sammy follows the shepherd’s lead, which keeps him safe and healthy. This illustrates the benefits of listening to and following wise advice.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child’s life by listening to parents’ and educators’ instructions, and understanding that such guidance is meant to protect and enhance their growth.
Example Lesson: Sharing and Generosity
Explanation: In the book, Sammy learns about the joy of sharing what he has with others in need, a lesson taught by the shepherd’s own generosity.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to share their toys, snacks, or time with others, learning that generosity enriches their own lives as well as those of the people around them.