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The Donkeys Jesus Chose, A Catholic Chapter Storybook
RELEASE Date First day of Lent, Wednesday, Feb. 14th, 2024: "The Donkeys Jesus Chose. A Catholic Chapter Storybook"
Children will enjoy this creative story recounting the Great Procession of Our Lord on Palm Sunday.
Who owned the donkeys that Jesus summoned for His grand entrance into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday? Why were they chosen? What happened to them when and after they were given this great honor? In this fictional tale, the author weaves together Sacred Scripture and imagination to create a heart-warming story.
It all begins with the birth of a baby donkey named Star. He is a gift to five-year-old Mara, who has difficulty walking due to a disability. Although Mara bravely faces ridicule for her handicap, her parents still anguish over her trials. Will Mara ever have lots of friends like other children?
Sapphire, the mama donkey, has a problem that would normally render her useless: She refuses to be ridden. But she maintains her utility by hauling lumber, carpentry tools, and loads of fabric, while also helping local shepherds watch over their flock.
Mara’s parents, Joshua the carpenter, and Miriam the seamstress, provide a loving home for their child. One day they begin hearing intriguing stories about Jesus of Nazareth. Then their lives quickly collide with the King of Kings in an extraordinary way when a benevolent stranger enters their lives.
The mysterious visitor requests the use of their donkeys for the day Jesus rides into Jerusalem. Unknown to Joshua, the animals see the man for who he really is – an angel. Their stubbornness melts away as they bow in submission. It is then we realize that Sapphire, the mama, will be a safe and steady mount for Our Lord.
The story is complemented by illustrations created by a young teenage artist, providing an authentic and natural aesthetic.
Discover the book destined to become a Holy Week classic - a must-read for every young Christian. Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to deepen your faith and gain a fresh perspective on the Easter season. Don't miss out - get your copy today!
Perfect for boys and girls ages 6 - 15 (or grades 1 – 10).
Children will enjoy this creative story recounting the Great Procession of Our Lord on Palm Sunday.
Who owned the donkeys that Jesus summoned for His grand entrance into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday? Why were they chosen? What happened to them when and after they were given this great honor? In this fictional tale, the author weaves together Sacred Scripture and imagination to create a heart-warming story.
It all begins with the birth of a baby donkey named Star. He is a gift to five-year-old Mara, who has difficulty walking due to a disability. Although Mara bravely faces ridicule for her handicap, her parents still anguish over her trials. Will Mara ever have lots of friends like other children?
Sapphire, the mama donkey, has a problem that would normally render her useless: She refuses to be ridden. But she maintains her utility by hauling lumber, carpentry tools, and loads of fabric, while also helping local shepherds watch over their flock.
Mara’s parents, Joshua the carpenter, and Miriam the seamstress, provide a loving home for their child. One day they begin hearing intriguing stories about Jesus of Nazareth. Then their lives quickly collide with the King of Kings in an extraordinary way when a benevolent stranger enters their lives.
The mysterious visitor requests the use of their donkeys for the day Jesus rides into Jerusalem. Unknown to Joshua, the animals see the man for who he really is – an angel. Their stubbornness melts away as they bow in submission. It is then we realize that Sapphire, the mama, will be a safe and steady mount for Our Lord.
The story is complemented by illustrations created by a young teenage artist, providing an authentic and natural aesthetic.
Discover the book destined to become a Holy Week classic - a must-read for every young Christian. Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to deepen your faith and gain a fresh perspective on the Easter season. Don't miss out - get your copy today!
Perfect for boys and girls ages 6 - 15 (or grades 1 – 10).
- GenresChildrens
102 pages, Paperback
First published February 14, 2024
10 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
About the author
Christine Calabrese
18 books25 followersYou might find Christine taking a brisk walk, gazing at the night sky, sewing a new project, attempting a delicious recipe, or reading a captivating novel. Stories brew inside her mind for years, akin to the blossoming of a long-lasting friendship.
She received the "Teacher of the Year" award from PS 151K and the National Right to Read Foundation's Teacher of the Year.
She received the "Teacher of the Year" award from PS 151K and the National Right to Read Foundation's Teacher of the Year.
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
March 24, 2024
5-year-old Mara lives with her papa, Joshua and mama, Miriam in a little square home in Bethphage at the time of Christ. Their donkey, Sapphire, has just given birth to a foal, who Mara names, Star because he was born on a starry night. They are a loving family, poor, hard-working but grateful each for the other. Mara’s birth was a miracle, but she has difficulty walking because her legs are not like those of other children who tease her. At that time in history, physical defects were seen as curses from God. To Mara, the baby donkey represents ‘good’ legs, mobility and acceptance by the other children. She looks forward to the day when Star is weaned, and she can ride him.
In the meantime, the author provides an exciting digression where the mother-son donkey team working together save a herd of sheep from a prowling wolf. Did you know that donkeys were used by shepherds like sheep dogs to protect their herds? I sure didn’t! But what is a good story without a wolf chase scene? Since my grandson has come along, I have learned this is very important, né, practically required for all truly great stories!
A mysterious stranger (angel) comes to visit Joshua one day with a mission for his donkeys. “The Master has need of them,” he says. Joshua tries to warn him that Sapphire has never been ridden and will not let anyone ride her, but this does not deter the handsome man. And who is the Master? Our LORD, Jesus Christ, of course!
The family is led to the Great Procession on Palm Sunday where they see the recalcitrant Sapphire calmly bearing the Son of God and docile Star walking next to his mother. Joshua’s family are overwhelmed by the sight, which begins a series of minor miracles culminating in a very special one for Mara.
This is a lovely 9-chapter book, especially appropriate for Easter time and delightful for children of all ages. It is beautifully illustrated by Anna Williams. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and look forward to sharing it with my grandchildren.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
In the meantime, the author provides an exciting digression where the mother-son donkey team working together save a herd of sheep from a prowling wolf. Did you know that donkeys were used by shepherds like sheep dogs to protect their herds? I sure didn’t! But what is a good story without a wolf chase scene? Since my grandson has come along, I have learned this is very important, né, practically required for all truly great stories!
A mysterious stranger (angel) comes to visit Joshua one day with a mission for his donkeys. “The Master has need of them,” he says. Joshua tries to warn him that Sapphire has never been ridden and will not let anyone ride her, but this does not deter the handsome man. And who is the Master? Our LORD, Jesus Christ, of course!
The family is led to the Great Procession on Palm Sunday where they see the recalcitrant Sapphire calmly bearing the Son of God and docile Star walking next to his mother. Joshua’s family are overwhelmed by the sight, which begins a series of minor miracles culminating in a very special one for Mara.
This is a lovely 9-chapter book, especially appropriate for Easter time and delightful for children of all ages. It is beautifully illustrated by Anna Williams. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and look forward to sharing it with my grandchildren.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
February 26, 2024
The author gave me a free copy of this book in return for an honest review, and I must say it was adorable. I am not religious, so I cannot comment on the accuracy of bible passages and the teachings of Jesus, but the story was well-written and entertaining. The illustrations, having been done by a young girl, were youthful and sweet.
February 14, 2024
At the beginning of this delightful children’s, book we are reminded that Saint John tells us in his Gospel that Jesus did so many things that there could never be enough books to describe them all. This story is just one possibility of the many wonders that Jesus brought about.
Miriam and Joshua live in a small village near Jerusalem. They have a small daughter called Mara who, due to her disability, is not able to walk properly. She longs to run and play with the other children but instead is mocked and even threatened because the ignorant villagers think that, because she has a disability, she or her parents are sinful in some way.
At the beginning of the book the family are excited because their donkey Sapphire is about to give birth. When the colt is born, Mara is allowed to choose his name and so she calls him Star.
Sapphire is quite a stubborn donkey (as they often can be) and she does not let anyone ride on her back, but Mara hopes that when Star is old enough she will be able to ride him. Mara loves the donkeys very much and the family take great care of them. One day a stranger arrives at the house and asks if the man called Jesus, whom everyone is calling the Messiah, can borrow Sapphire and Star to ride into Jerusalem for the feast of Passover. Joshua says that he can but that Sapphire does not like to be ridden. Despite this, the stranger still asks them to take the donkeys into Jerusalem very early in the morning and leave them there for Jesus to use.
When the big procession enters Jerusalem there is Sapphire with Jesus on her back! The family is honoured and delighted to see Our Lord riding on their donkey.
The donkeys are returned to the family by the stranger, there is something very special about the man and Mara is sure that she saw wings on his back. Sapphire is also different when she comes home, her character more gentle and she can now be ridden - but that is only part of the story. Jesus is so loving and merciful and does not forget the kindness shown to him by the family. Wonderful things are about to happen.
I think that this is the perfect story to introduce any child to the story of Jesus and His Passion. It is so lovely to read that parents and grandparents will enjoy reading it to their children and it will also make a great addition to any Christian school library.
There are references to the relevant places in the Gospels which refer to Palm Sunday and I particularly liked the little aspirations (tiny prayers that bring our mind to God in times of need); they would be nice for children to learn to say.
The illustrations are beautiful, created by a young lady of about the same age as the target readership for the story - I wish that I could draw as well as Miss Anna Williams!
I was honoured to receive an ARC of this book from Christine Calabrese in return for an honest review.
The story reminded me of the legend that every donkey has the mark of a cross across its shoulders and down its back as a sign that it was a donkey that carried Mary into Bethlehem at Christmas and Jesus into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.
It also brought to mind one of my favourite poems, The Donkey by G.K. Chesterton.
What a beautiful book!
Miriam and Joshua live in a small village near Jerusalem. They have a small daughter called Mara who, due to her disability, is not able to walk properly. She longs to run and play with the other children but instead is mocked and even threatened because the ignorant villagers think that, because she has a disability, she or her parents are sinful in some way.
At the beginning of the book the family are excited because their donkey Sapphire is about to give birth. When the colt is born, Mara is allowed to choose his name and so she calls him Star.
Sapphire is quite a stubborn donkey (as they often can be) and she does not let anyone ride on her back, but Mara hopes that when Star is old enough she will be able to ride him. Mara loves the donkeys very much and the family take great care of them. One day a stranger arrives at the house and asks if the man called Jesus, whom everyone is calling the Messiah, can borrow Sapphire and Star to ride into Jerusalem for the feast of Passover. Joshua says that he can but that Sapphire does not like to be ridden. Despite this, the stranger still asks them to take the donkeys into Jerusalem very early in the morning and leave them there for Jesus to use.
When the big procession enters Jerusalem there is Sapphire with Jesus on her back! The family is honoured and delighted to see Our Lord riding on their donkey.
The donkeys are returned to the family by the stranger, there is something very special about the man and Mara is sure that she saw wings on his back. Sapphire is also different when she comes home, her character more gentle and she can now be ridden - but that is only part of the story. Jesus is so loving and merciful and does not forget the kindness shown to him by the family. Wonderful things are about to happen.
I think that this is the perfect story to introduce any child to the story of Jesus and His Passion. It is so lovely to read that parents and grandparents will enjoy reading it to their children and it will also make a great addition to any Christian school library.
There are references to the relevant places in the Gospels which refer to Palm Sunday and I particularly liked the little aspirations (tiny prayers that bring our mind to God in times of need); they would be nice for children to learn to say.
The illustrations are beautiful, created by a young lady of about the same age as the target readership for the story - I wish that I could draw as well as Miss Anna Williams!
I was honoured to receive an ARC of this book from Christine Calabrese in return for an honest review.
The story reminded me of the legend that every donkey has the mark of a cross across its shoulders and down its back as a sign that it was a donkey that carried Mary into Bethlehem at Christmas and Jesus into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.
It also brought to mind one of my favourite poems, The Donkey by G.K. Chesterton.
What a beautiful book!
February 24, 2024
A beautiful early reader for Christian families to describe the events leading up to Palm Sunday and the profound affect it had on one family.
Joshua, his wife, Miriam, and their disabled daughter, Mara lived a humble life in a small village. They have a stubborn, donkey named Sapphire who is about to give birth. Sapphire refuses to allow anyone to ride her. Mara must face the bullying of the village children who taunt her as a cripple. In those times, a handicap was often seen as a sign of sin. Mara has one true friend, Hannah, who tells her about Jesus, the Messiah.
As the village prepares for Passover, the family hears that Jesus will enter Jerusalem in a procession. Mara pleads to go. Then an unexpected request comes from a stranger to use the family donkeys for the Messiah in the procession. How will this request and the miracle that follows change the life of this humble family?
Along with the touching tale containing lessons of empathy, compassion, resilience, and hope, children are treated to the beautiful, colored pencil drawings of a budding young artist, Anna Williams who illustrates the chapters. As a bonus for young readers, the author includes a link to learn all about donkeys.
This book is especially recommended to Christian families and beginning chapter book readers.
Joshua, his wife, Miriam, and their disabled daughter, Mara lived a humble life in a small village. They have a stubborn, donkey named Sapphire who is about to give birth. Sapphire refuses to allow anyone to ride her. Mara must face the bullying of the village children who taunt her as a cripple. In those times, a handicap was often seen as a sign of sin. Mara has one true friend, Hannah, who tells her about Jesus, the Messiah.
As the village prepares for Passover, the family hears that Jesus will enter Jerusalem in a procession. Mara pleads to go. Then an unexpected request comes from a stranger to use the family donkeys for the Messiah in the procession. How will this request and the miracle that follows change the life of this humble family?
Along with the touching tale containing lessons of empathy, compassion, resilience, and hope, children are treated to the beautiful, colored pencil drawings of a budding young artist, Anna Williams who illustrates the chapters. As a bonus for young readers, the author includes a link to learn all about donkeys.
This book is especially recommended to Christian families and beginning chapter book readers.
February 17, 2024
This Christian children’s book tells the story of a little disabled girl named Mara, and two slightly grumpy donkeys named Star and Saphire. They all lived in a small village outside Jerusalem during the time of Jesus. Through a series of wondrous events, Mara and her family were changed forever by an encounter with Jesus when he chose Star and Saphire to carry him into Jerusalem.
This is a tale for children and parents alike; it is both entertaining and educational. The author uses verses from the Bible to set the stage for the unfolding events, and the book is filled with charming illustrations that bring Mara, her parents, and the donkeys to life for the reader.
As we follow the series of events that lead Mara and her family to their climactic meeting with Jesus, the author expertly incorporates themes of courage, perseverance, charity and faith into the story. This book will inspire children and adults alike, and I give a thumbs up.
Disclosure: I have received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This is a tale for children and parents alike; it is both entertaining and educational. The author uses verses from the Bible to set the stage for the unfolding events, and the book is filled with charming illustrations that bring Mara, her parents, and the donkeys to life for the reader.
As we follow the series of events that lead Mara and her family to their climactic meeting with Jesus, the author expertly incorporates themes of courage, perseverance, charity and faith into the story. This book will inspire children and adults alike, and I give a thumbs up.
Disclosure: I have received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
February 21, 2024
This is a fascinating adaptation of the biblical story of the entrance into Jerusalem by Jesus. Actual scriptural quotes are interwoven with the author's creative vision of the event itself, as well as the period of time leading up to it and even after it.
There is some mystery, some humor, some sadness and a lot of love sprinkled throughout! Ultimately though, it is primarily a story of love and faith.
The use of the donkey's is both historical and humorous.
I highly recommend this book to parents and their children!
There is some mystery, some humor, some sadness and a lot of love sprinkled throughout! Ultimately though, it is primarily a story of love and faith.
The use of the donkey's is both historical and humorous.
I highly recommend this book to parents and their children!
March 11, 2024
Have you ever thought about the donkey that Jesus rode into Jerusalem before his passion. It’s a bit of mysterious event when Jesus instructs his disciples where to find a donkey for this special occasion. This sweet chapter book is a fictional story about that donkey and the special family it belongs to. Besides a wonderful opportunity to discuss Jesus’ entry to Jerusalem for His passion, there are some beautiful messages about kindness, acceptance, faith, and family devotion. The illustrations of this book are special as well as they were created by a young, aspiring artist.
April 27, 2024
Have you ever pictured the story behind the donkeys that Jesus rode on in his big entrance to Jerusalem?
Mara is a five-year-old girl born with deformed legs, supported by her loving and protective parents, and accompanied by two faithful and extraordinary donkeys. However, Mara is forced to hide away and isolate herself from the village people. This was during a time where disabilities were believed to be consequences of grave sin, but even so, sweet five-year-old girl Mara, her caring, strong father, Joseph, her loving, cautious mother, Miriam, along with their two donkeys, Sapphire, and her colt, Star, believe, pray, and experience miraculous events unfold. One of which involve Jesus himself, requesting the use of their donkeys!
I absolutely enjoyed this book. A beautiful story about family, faith, and miracles. Not to mention it being paired with wonderful, heartfelt illustrations done by a young girl herself. Thank you to Christine Calabrese for providing a copy of The Donkeys Jesus Chose to review. All opinions are my own.
Mara is a five-year-old girl born with deformed legs, supported by her loving and protective parents, and accompanied by two faithful and extraordinary donkeys. However, Mara is forced to hide away and isolate herself from the village people. This was during a time where disabilities were believed to be consequences of grave sin, but even so, sweet five-year-old girl Mara, her caring, strong father, Joseph, her loving, cautious mother, Miriam, along with their two donkeys, Sapphire, and her colt, Star, believe, pray, and experience miraculous events unfold. One of which involve Jesus himself, requesting the use of their donkeys!
I absolutely enjoyed this book. A beautiful story about family, faith, and miracles. Not to mention it being paired with wonderful, heartfelt illustrations done by a young girl herself. Thank you to Christine Calabrese for providing a copy of The Donkeys Jesus Chose to review. All opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews