The Long Road Home
Sarah Walton
Illustrated by
Christina Yang
Picture Book, Bible story, Allegory
This book finds itself in between a short chapter book and a long picture book. The illustrations are sufficient to engage the younger readers (think mature 4, or 5&up), but the content invites reflection and conversation on the classic parable of the prodigal son, making it appropriate and thought-provoking for up to age 10 or more. A perfect transition book for kids who are ready for more complex content but not quite ready for more emotionally-intense chapter books.
Synopsis
Beginning with the classic start of the parable of the prodigal son, the younger brother (Wander) takes his inheritance and leaves to find what will make him happy. Sarah Walton then takes the reader on a journey with the younger son (akin to John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress) to four "places" we can find ourselves when looking to find satisfaction on our own in this life. She represents each one with a city: Perfection, Prosperity, Popularity, & Desperation. In each city, she walks the reader through classic temptations we encounter that on the surface appear to offer satisfaction and goodness, but she illustrates through Wander's experiences that these satisfactions are ellusive and not life-giving. The last part of the story retells the end of the parable as Wander returns to his father and illustrates the warm welcome he recieves.
What I Love
This book sparks extended reflection on and discussion of the parable of the prodigal son. The illustrations are beautiful and add quite a lot to the story. It emphasizes the idea that we are loved and forgiven by God and He is delighted when we run to Him.
Weaker points
As a picture book, there is still limited space for character development or engaging details, so the impact of the story is more in the ideas and less in the emotional connections. But, for what it is, a picture book, this book adds a lot to the discussion of this parable.
Details
Age: 4-10
50 pages
About the Authors
Sarah Walton is a writer and speaker and mother. She has written a number of books, although this is her first for children.
Where To Find
Check your church library