Saturday, 7 July 2018

The Story of Job - Regina Doman and Ben Hatke

The Story of Job
Regina Doman
Ben Hatke

TAN Books
ISBN 9781505111811
ISBN 9781505111750
ASIN B07DKW895X


Regina Doman is an incredible Catholic author. Her Fairy tales Retold Series is incredible. And this book is unlike anything she has done before. This little volume took me completely by surprised. I was reading it and thought it was so wonderful, I could over my youngest two children and started reading it over again with them. The description of this book is:
"The simple yet mysterious story of Job from the Bible is retold in language suitable for young readers with child-friendly illustrations by New York Times bestselling illustrator Ben Hatke. Written after the author experienced a personal tragedy, this story is prepared to help parents and kids explore the question: Why does God allow good people to suffer?"
The story was born out of personal experience, but it was captured and shared. This book is a small volume, but it has a huge message. It is a story that can be appreciated by readers of almost any age. I have a feeling that this will be one of those books that I reread even year for many years to come. The day I read this my son went to get a back brace he needs to wear 22 hours a day until he can have surgery. I had been talking to him and praying with him about uniting his suffering with Jesus's. This book was an incredible timely read for both of us. 

The illustrations by Ben Hatke add a wonderful element to Regina's retelling of the story of Job. When I was in university I did a section in a Children Lit course on books used in grief counseling. This book would is an amazing addition for children dealing with suffering, illness or loss. It is one of those book I know I will be recommending often in the years to come. And will likely keep spare copies on hand to be able to give it away. 


The story of Job is one that most people even in this day can recount, at least the basics of the story. But this retelling of it is simply masterful. And though this book came about because of personal circumstance, I cannot help but wonder how Doman and Hatke would retell the stories of Ruth, Ester, Tobit, Susanna's Song. But regardless of if they do other books in this style, this is a family favorite and an incredible read!

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2018 Catholic Reading Plan!

Book by Regina Doman:
Fairy Tales Retold:
Snow White and Rose Red (1997)
Shadow Of The Bear (2002)
Black As Night (2004)
Waking Rose (2007)
Midnight Dancers (2008)
Alex O'Donnell and the 40 Cyber Thieves (2010)

Rapunzel Let Down (2013)
...

Other Books:
The Story of Job
...

Contributed to:
Catholic Philosopher Chick Makes Her Debut
Catholic Philosopher Chick Comes on Strong
The Mystery of Harry Potter: A Catholic Family Guide
The Chestertons and the Golden Key
...

Picture Books:
Angels in the Water (2004)
Fairy Tale Novel Paper Dolls (2009)
...

NonFiction:
Our Fairy Tale Romance - Andrew Schmiedicke (2009)



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