Years ago, Mom read this book aloud to our family. More recently, we came across the movie from the ‘80s that is based on this book, and we had an enjoyable family movie night. After watching the movie, though, I was curious to see how it lined up with the book—and since it had been so long since I’d heard the book, I couldn’t remember what it was like. So I picked this book up recently and had a lot of fun reading it over the past few days.

This is a simple story, but the kind of story that delivers a powerful punch while still being age-appropriate for younger readers. I could strongly relate to Ruth—I saw my younger self in many of the things she did. She wasn’t always a naughty child, but she did manage to drag her brother into a lot of scrapes with her many ideas, and that was fun to read about. I also enjoyed the faith element of the story; it was very gentle, but an encouragement to me, even now as an adult.

This is a sweet, easy, fast read, one that I’d want to share with my siblings if they didn’t already know the story. If you enjoy faith-filled children’s fiction that has some depth to it, I’d highly recommend you check this book out! It’s a treasure to have on the shelf. ( )

In a struggle to learn to overcome her fiery temper and selfish spirit, Ruth is led to the discovery of a very important Shepherd who can and does teach her how to be good.

Another one from childhood--a melodrama but I remember being impressed by the overall downbeat tone of the book, something I recognized as unusual (even as a young reader)... ( )