New Release Teaches Gratitude Using an Unlikely Source – Chickens

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – Introducing children to faith can be started early, as one study found that religious beliefs begin taking shape in children as young as two years of age. Young children learn by observing modeled behavior and through various forms of media, including picture books.

Author Dawn Okerlund, mother of seven, grandmother of fifteen, and foster mother to many others, knows the importance of books that foster a healthy faith-based outlook. But it was inspiration from four chickens that unexpectedly joined her family that led the debut author to write The Long Road Home (Redemption Press), a picture book for children ages five to eight.

In The Long Road Home, a little flock of chickens are turned away from their home and scurry to find a new place to live before the cold weather becomes treacherous. Subtly woven into the story are elements of faith on display: prayer, belief that God is looking out for them, and trust in God and his plans. While chickens might seem like an unlikely source when it comes to learning to depend on God, Okerlund advises taking the time “to listen and learn from others, even our pets and animals. and then pray and trust God.”

Based on real-life events, the chickens’ distinct personalities add humor and entertainment to every page. With their positive and grateful outlooks, they teach us about faith and that home is more about who we share it with than a specific location.

Okerlund says her desire for the book is for readers to know that “Prayer is the key between us and God, and God answers prayers.” Included is a “chicken glossary” with related definitions and vocabulary words.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dawn was first inspired to write a story her grandchildren would be able to enjoy after four very special chickens entered their lives. Mother of seven and Mimi of fifteen, she babysat and was a foster mom to many. She was also a nursery worker, Sunday school teacher, and youth leader for her church. She always enjoyed reading stories to her children and now enjoys reading to her grandchildren. The Long Road Home is her debut book.

For interviews, contact dawn.okerlund@yahoo.com   

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