Timothy: A Little Fish with a Big Purpose

   Recently I had the opportunity to review Timothy a Little Fish with a Big Purpose by Brad Riley for Cross Focused Reviews.  I started reading this to Shorty (age almost 2) and before I knew it Bubby (age 10) and Mookie (age 9) were there with us drawn in by the engaging story. 

    The story tells the tale of Timothy, a little fish who obediently followed his mother and grandmother’s instructions and therefore was a blessing to those he came in contact with.  What your kiddos might not pick up on is the background is actually the story of the miracle of the fish from Matthew 17.  In that way, the story is engaging to multiple levels of kiddos because it can draw them in on their level of Biblical understanding. 

   On Shorty’s level, the bright pictures and the brief text on each page was great.  He didn’t stir while we worked our way through.  On another level, you learn about obedience to your parents/spiritual teachers and how that is ultimately being obedient to God.   Further in, you can see how God orchestrates all things for his ultimate good, even using a fish.

   I liked the endnote where the author talks about adults modeling their faith for their kids, like Timothy’s Grandma did in the book.  We as parents and teachers need to be so careful that we are modeling Christ to our kids.  

  The only time where Mr. Riley lost me was where Timothy was supposed to call his mom when he got to his grandma’s house.  I understand that it was put in there to show responsibility to kids but the idea of fish and a telephone was stretching for me. 

   I loved this book and was glad to receive a free download of it from Cross Focused Reviews.  The opinions in this review are my own:)