Finding a Friend: #2-The Lost Sheep (2) (Kay & Ray) - Tapa dura

                “This book is a rendering of the Parable of the Lost Sheep of Matthew 18 and Luke 15.  The talented author Debbie Henderson Maestas and illustrator Andrew Thomas have given us the joy of waking up on a day that promises excitement and new experiences—here, a Fall Harvest Carnival.

            Who does not remember dressing up (Kay has her face painted with little pumpkins), and enjoying games and rides with one's sibling and best friend?  And who does not remember the fear of losing that sibling or friend (here called Tommy) in a crowd.  Calling for him, frantically looking for him everywhere, dashing around in the search, figuring out strategies where to look, and distress in not finding him—all are evoked in text and pictures. 

            Like the Good Shepherd, Kay and her big brother, Ray, are absolutely persistent in their search.  Then comes the joy in discovering Tommy in an unusual place, and of finding that he is safe.  The book movingly depicts their reunion and underscores the point of the parable, that everyone is precious and a joy in God's sight.”

---Ernst F. Tonsing, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of New Testament and Greek, California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, California

“This story is engaging to children of a variety of ages. My children thoroughly enjoyed this story.  I love how it ties a true to life story to God’s word. It tells a sweet story that opens up doors for questions/discussion about the Bible. I would recommend this book to anyone with young children.”

---Erin Manolakakis, Mother of 3 and former educator

“Debbie has done a wonderful work in writing Finding a Friend. This family adventure turns to concern and worry of a lost child and then helps reinforce the message of God’s love and importance of each individual. This well illustrated and easy-to-read book will have children engaged and asking questions. Keep up the series Debbie!”

---Betsy Whicker, Retired Primary Teacher

“Finding a Friend is a simple tool to help children see Jesus’ heart for each child on earth, ‘The Precious Ones’.  Each one of us can relate to Kay and Ray’s story.  It illustrates family values and love for others.  Finally, it reminds us as adults as we read it to our children that we all need a healthy sense of urgency for the many who have not heard the Gospel.  Thanks Debbie!”

---Lonnie Gonzales, City Director, LINC Houston, LINC Ministries Int’l, Inc.

“Ray is the best big brother ever! In a captivating story, Ray helps his little sister Kay and other young readers understand the timeless parable of the Lost Sheep while searching for Tommy. Finding a Friend is the next book in the Kay & Ray series where Debbie Maestas provides a fresh approach to encourage children to act with compassion and reach the helpless with the hope of Jesus.”

--- Kathie Walker, Director, Day One Christian Academy

Kay’s excitement for the Fall Harvest Carnival soon disappears when her best friend, Tommy, goes missing during the hayride. Where could he have gone? Big brother, Ray, helps Kay locate Tommy and shows her how each child is precious to their parents no matter how many children they have. Purchase this contemporary adaptation of the Bible story, The Lost Sheep, for your special little one today.