Certain Poor Shepherds - Softcover

Thomas, Elizabeth Marshall

3.46

192 ratings by Goodreads

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0684844583 ISBN 13: 9780684844589

Publisher: Simon & Schuster, 1997

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A heartwarming story introduces two unlikely shepherds--Lila, a dog, and Ima, a goat--as they follow the bright star glowing in the sky, leading their flock to Bethlehem, in a new twist on the traditional Christmas tale. Reprint. 125,000 first printing.

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From the Publisher:

"On the first Christmas, so say the Christians, a redeemer was born to save our kind from the consequences of our greed, waste, pride, cruelty, and arrogance. No redeemer appeared for the animals; however, none was needed. The animals were much the same then as they are now, just as God made them, perfect according to his plan..."

So begins this resonant tale by one of our most gifted story tellers and most perceptive animal watchers, Elizabeth Marshall Thomas. When an unusual star appears on the horizon one clear winter night, among those drawn to its bright promise are two shepherds- that is, a dog named Lila and Ima, a goat. Therein lies an adventure, and Thomas's departure from the familiar story treasured by generations. With their flock, the animals journey to Bethlehem and home again, witnesses to a redemption of which they have no need.

Yet as they make their way, encountering danger and opportunity, their journey becomes an extraordinary meditation, moving but unsentimental, on the nature of freedom and the state of natural grace in a world ruled by the power-and frailty-of humankind.

About the Author:

Elizabeth Marshall Thomas is the author of THE HIDDEN LIFE OF DOGS, and THE TRIBE OF TIGER as well as four novels, including REINDEER MOON. She writes a column for USA Today's Sunday supplement.

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