Masha Simkovitch's illustrations, seven black and white drawings, gracefully enrich the text depicting the people and animals portrayed in this charming story. Gunnar Gunnarsson's tale of kindness revolves around Benedikt's annual winter trek to the far, high pastures in search of forgotton sheep. Due to the arrival of fierce winter weather, Benedikt, his dog Leo, and his wether [ram] Gnarly experience hardships resulting from delays caused by Benedikt's putting others' needs before his own. This inspiring adventure set in the Advent and Christmas seasons celebrates Benedikt's unselfish behavior both as a good shepherd and a good friend.

I picked up a copy of this book at Food & Books, a restaurant/book cellar in Union, CT. It is an 84-page story of an Icelandic good shepherd, emulating The Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, in his works of mercy. If you are either a religious Christian by culture or a spiritual Christian by calling (the latter recognizes the difference), or merely one who enjoys being moved by a story of goodness demonstrated, try to find a copy of this book. Published in 1940, the slip cover text ends with: "Appearing when the world is war-weary, weary of mad greed and savage aggression, The Good Shepherd brings a Christmas message peculiarly inspiring." Amen