HOWIE’S BROKEN HEE-HAW Book Review

Any child who is differently-abled, on a different learning level, or who just feels different than their peers may occasionally wonder if they’re broken in some way. Even though the setting in HOWIE’S BROKEN HEE-HAW takes place during the days leading up to Easter, I think it’s a book little ones will enjoy hearing anytime they’re feeling a bit discouraged.

The Author

An award-winning author and photographer, Josie Siler “shares God’s gifts of beauty, hope, and adventure with people who are overwhelmed by life’s circumstances, encouraging them to walk in the freedom and joy found in Jesus. Josie especially wants children to understand how much God loves them and that He is there for them not only in good times, but in hard times too.”

Josie understands God’s love throughout the good and tough days. She was trained and ready to set out for the mission field. But then, she became very ill. She was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease called Mixed Connective Tissue Disease. Other illnesses followed: Fibromyalgia, Dermographism , and Chronic Lyme disease. Josie says on her blog, “I’m already healed spiritually, and I’m on a long and slow journey toward physical healing, too. God is working through it all and I’m so thankful for the things He’s teaching me through suffering.” 

The Illustrator

This 32-page book published by End Game Press is beautifully illustrated by Sebastien Braun. A native of France he says: “Without any art training, I opted to study history at Strasbourg University. Fortunately for me, the History Department shared its building with the Art Department, and after a year I chose to switch subjects – the best decision I ever made.” Braun eventually left his job as an art teacher and became a full-time illustrator. He does a lovely job illustrating Howie’s Broken Hee-Haw with comforting watercolors using mostly a palette of soft greens, browns, and blues.

About HOWIE’S BROKEN HEE-HAW

This Christian animal fiction story features two talking donkeys—Howie and his mother. Other animals are shown in the illustrations, but they do not speak. The story begins with Howie practicing his hee-hawing. Because his hee-haw doesn’t sound like everyone else’s, Howie experiences a range of emotions: he is mad, sad, embarrassed, and scared.

Howie’s mom encourages him throughout the story, reminding him of her love for him. She even walks along beside him when two men take him on a journey.

Howie meets Jesus who tells him he needs him. Howie is uncertain if he can help and tells Jesus he is “just a donkey with a broken Hee-Hawer.” But Jesus assures Howie he is not broken. He tells Howie his special Hee-Haw is perfect for praising and for the task He has planned.

You’ll have to check out the book to see what happened! But, I’ll tell you it was joyful as is the ending of the book. The story closes with Jesus’ triumphal entry.

On the last page is a sweet prayer emphasizing how God does not make mistakes and that each of us is created for special reasons. The prayer ends with, “I want to be brave like Howie and use the special talents that you gave me. I know You will help me. Thank You! Amen.”

Recommendation

I think children ages 2 – 7 will enjoy this uplifting book. I bought the book to read to my grandblessings who are aged 2 – 6, and they all love it. You could read children the true story from John 12:12-15 first. Then, ask them to find the similarities and differences in this fictional book. But remember, HOWIE’S BROKEN HEE-HAW isn’t meant to be a retelling of scriptures. It’s a story written with a Christian worldview about a donkey whose story reminds children they are uniquely created for a purpose and are greatly loved.

What is one of your favorite Christian fiction books for children?