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Sea Kids

A Servant Like Jesus

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Charlie is a shy kid who hides behind the cleanup sink at school. However, after his teacher asks him to be her helper, he springs into action when the fire coral stings his friend Bernie. Charlie goes to bed a little bit early because he wants to make sure he gets a goodnight's sleep. He wants to be a good helper for Miss Stella. He had decided that it was way more fun to be a helper than to hide behind a sink! Before he falls asleep, Charlie prays, "Dear Jesus, thank you for my great first day of school, and thank you for my mommy and daddy, all my new friends and for Miss Stella. Help me to always help others. Amen." Charlie learns he can overcome his shyness and be a servant like Jesus.

32 pages, Paperback

Published June 1, 2016

12 people want to read

About the author

Lee Ann Mancini

15 books49 followers
Lee Ann Mancini graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from Regent University (1990), a Masters in Biblical and Theology Studies from Knox Seminary, Magna Cum Laude (2014), and a Masters in Christian Studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Cum Laude (2014). Lee Ann also received her certificate of completion from the Ravi School of Apologetics (2011).

Lee Ann is currently an adjunct professor teaching Ministerial Ethics and Romans at South Florida Bible College and Theological Seminary. She is has taught Bible Study for over 10 years and has been an active community volunteer/leader for over 20 years: Representing children as a Palm Beach County Guardian Ad Litem, International Affairs commission Chair for St. Joan of Arc Council of Catholic Women, Community Support Chair for the Junior League of Boca Raton, and CCD religious education teacher for St. Joan of Arc. Initiated and chaired the Auction for Boca Raton High School for six years, and initiated and chaired the PTSA for Boca Raton High School for two years. In addition, Lee Ann is involved in the Women’s Ministry at Spanish River Christian Church and is on board Alexandrian Forum under the tutelage of Dr. Warren Gage Th.M., J.D., Ph.D., seeking to bring a greater understanding of the Bible by hosting annual Typology Conferences in South Florida dedicated to the theme of Christ as the center of Scripture. In addition, Lee Ann speaks to women groups regarding the redemptive power of the gospel represented though the types of brides of the church.

In addition, Lee Ann is a member of the Evangelical Theological Society and Society for Pentecostal Studies. She was awarded “Woman of Distinction Award” by the Soroptimists International of Boca Raton 1995, among other awards in service to the community, school, and church.

Lee Ann is married and has two children. She loves to read, jog, and teach the Word of God. She is also a Christian Children’s author with a series of books, which will make their debut in 2015.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
Profile Image for Sarita.
1,544 reviews655 followers
February 16, 2020
Love the illustrations. My son's other bedtime story for the past week. Sometimes I have to read it back to back. A beautiful message about being shy but asking God to be brave and help others.
33 reviews12 followers
February 11, 2017
Originally posted here---> http://pastriesandnovelthoughts.weebly.com/blog/my-novel-thoughts-on-a-servant-like-jesus-by-lee-ann-mancini

I can't even tell you how many times I've read this book to my kid brother haha.

A Servant Like Jesus takes place in the same world God's Gift does. This novel follows Charlie, a shy kid, who is asked by his teacher to be her assistant after he helped her solve an issue between two other children in class. Charlie isn't so shy anymore and is super happy to help and helps his teacher on a field trip. When Charlie goes to sleep that night he prays for help to help others.

"... Jesus served everyone, and I want to be a servant like Jesus!"


​I liked that this book teaches children that in doing good deeds it is to be a servant like Jesus. It's inspiring you know? I loved the colors and bubbly feel this book has and I love that my kid brother really enjoyed this story. Oh, and my mum totally approves of this book and loves it too. She says it's "too cute" haha. I cant wait to see more of Mancini's work.

​Again Mancini and Sharp (illustrator) have created such a vibrant story that stands out to kids. I definitely recommend this book, children and adults a like will like it. You're never too old to learn, am I right?

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher, Glm Publishing LLC, through the BookCrash.com in exchange for a honest book review.
Profile Image for Kailey (Luminous Libro).
3,619 reviews552 followers
June 14, 2017
Charlie is a little crab at his first day of Fish School, and he's too shy to join the other children in class. But when a schoolmate gets injured, it's up to Charlie to pray for the courage to jump in and help.

The illustrations are so cute! I love the bright colors and adorable little fish friends. The best part is the hidden Bible symbol on each page. I love searching for hidden objects in pictures, and this will keep children engaged and interested through multiple readings.

This would be the perfect book for any children who are shy or feel overwhelmed by fear in new situations, because it teaches that if we pray for courage, and focus on helping others rather than focusing on our own fears or discomfort, Christ will give us the bravery to do good and serve others for His glory!

Disclaimer: I received this book from the author in exchange for a free and honest review. All the thoughts in this review are my own honest opinions and are not influenced by anyone.
341 reviews
February 24, 2019
Charlie the crab is another one of Ms. Mancini’s charming characters. He is very shy so the first day of school is somewhat daunting to the little fellow. While other kids embrace the special day or are crying for their parents, he decides hiding behind the sink and watching is the best choice. When he witnesses students having trouble getting along he is able to tell the teacher what really happened. The teacher is then prompted to ask him to be her special helper. This was just the ticket to bring Charlie out of hiding. Immediately he quotes his resume of special crab skills that he knows will come in useful. Later that day on a field trip a fellow student accidentally falls into a fire coral and is stung. Without hesitating, Charlie alerts the teacher, and rushes to his classmate’s side, to comfort and pray with him. Thanks to his quick actions the student receives first aid. As the day goes on Charlie realizes not only has he had fun, but that he is brave and able to be a servant like Jesus.
New experiences and places can be overwhelming to youngsters. It might be the first day of school, first time to be left at day care, Sunday school or junior church. Some are so incredibly shy like Charlie that it is painful. Children can relate to the cute, colorful Sea Kids facing the same situation. The little crab’s special abilities were needed and helpful to others. I was amused at all the values Charlies sees in his little “crabby” skills, especially walking sideways! I find this a wonderful illustration to point out each child’s unique God given abilities can be a blessing to those around them and can be used to serve the Lord. Prayer is a powerful message in the story, showing kids they can ask God for help, not only for themselves but others anytime and anywhere. Furthermore young readers can see it is okay to pray out loud in front of others. I also noticed another important encouragement for children to do right. When Charlie told his teacher about the students fighting he demonstrated there is a right time to go to those in authority with a problem. Too many youngsters fear being a “tattle-tale”. This is a wonderful point to discuss with your child the difference between tattling and the responsibility to share important information. This little red crab will help kids realize it if fun to serve others!
This book is another blessing in the series! I love how the author doesn’t just focus on just moral character but Christian values based on God’s word! My youngest Grandson is almost 1 year old and loves books. Red is his favorite color right now so I feel quite sure Charlie the crab, will be his favored Sea kid!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions stated are my own.
Profile Image for Diana Montgomery.
844 reviews9 followers
September 28, 2019
I loved this story book for children. Christian story about having a heart like God. Well written educational and inspirational children's book. The illustrations are wonderful. Very colorful to draw the attention of the children. Illustrations are by Dan Sharp. In the story first day of school and we all know how that first day away from mommy is. Charlie is very shy just wants his mommy. Miss Stella tries to get him out of hiding. Love all the little characters. Teaches children to pray. Wonderful for pre school to 6 years old.
Profile Image for Terri Gillespie.
Author 11 books192 followers
December 1, 2023
A SERVANT LIKE JESUS is a true treasure. Author Lee Ann Mancini and illustrator Dan Sharp have teamed up again to produce an inspiring story of overcoming.

The Story: Charlie the Crab is insecure about his abilities until a wise teacher helps him see his value in emulated Jesus. As Jesus’s helper, he finds purpose.

Highly recommended for preschool to eight years old and the adults in their life. A treasure for the home or church library.

I received this book for free from The Book Club Network and the author in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for C.E. Hart.
Author 8 books43 followers
October 17, 2016
A Servant Like Jesus, written by Lee Ann Mancini and illustrated by Dan Sharp, is the newest book in the Adventures of the Sea Kids series! This is such a sweet story about being brave enough to step out of your comfort zone and be a helper to others.

“I could use a teacher’s helper. Would you be my helper?” asked Miss Stella.


The first day of class has begun, and many of the sea kids are uncomfortable in their new surrounding. They initially have problems with shyness, sharing, and missing their parents. Soon the teacher, Miss Stella Starfish, comforts and calms them, and assigns young Charlie to be her helper. This gives Charlie, the young crab, confidence to step out of his comfort zone and even allows him to help a fellow sea kid who gets hurt on a field trip. Lessons are learned, prayers are said, and the first day of school becomes a great success.

This slim, softcover book contains short, easy to read narration, and bold, colorful illustrated pages. The sea kids are fun and loveable, and the gentle message is appropriate and relatable for young readers (and listeners.)

I’m so pleased with this entire series and the Christian messages taught to our young ones. Communicating love, understanding, acceptance, and the Gospel, these short reads guide children toward a common goal—faith in Jesus and His teachings.

A fun tidbit on the last page prompts the reader to go back and search for the hidden Bible pictures on each page—a purposeful reminder for the reader to examine the illustrations as they learn the story.

This is a powerful and fun addition to any child’s library or bookshelf, and makes a meaningful and educational gift.

5 Stars

Cover: Love
Title: Love
Publisher: GLM Publishing LLC
ISBN: 978-0986360480
Pages: 32
First lines: It was the first day of school at the Fish-Care Cove School. Miss Stella Starfish waited at the door to greet her sea kids.
Purchase: Amazon

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, via BookCrash.

Profile Image for Liisi.
125 reviews4 followers
December 2, 2016
Let me start that the 5 star rating came from my kids, not just me...

First of all Dan Sharp is a great illustrator, his characters are beautiful, bright and vibrant! Perfect for a kid's book. The story that Ms. Mancini had brought to life here in "A Servant Like Jesus" is a cute sweet learning story for all children. We used it during story time at school, which was perfect because it's about a classroom. My 7 year old learned to read this year, and when he saw the book in my stack of workbooks he 1. asked if we could start with that book, 2. asked if he could read, 3. started reading before I was completely ready to start school today.

LET ME TELL YOU WHAT! I wanted to cry because he has been fighting reading for a year and a half, so for him to give me 3 amazing surprises all based around a book I could cry. He loved the characters, (especially the Crab Charlie, because my 7 year old LOVES crabs), he loved the story, loved the message about Jesus (since we're celebrating Christmas right now, and he's looking for more ways to be like Jesus), and best of all loved going back through the whole story to find the hidden Bibles on each page. In fact he re-read the book after school was over just because he loved this book so much! To show you how amazing this miracle is, he has currently only read short level 1 readers with 10 or less words per page. This book is 32 pages long with an average of 12+ words per page.

My 10 year old loved this too, we all took turns reading together which was a great family experience! It was a reading without tears, without being angry or stressed or frustrated by any of us. My kids already want me to start looking for more books like this, so Ms. Lee Ann Mancini please keep writing more!
Profile Image for Julia.
143 reviews2 followers
January 1, 2017
What exactly does it mean to be a servant like Jesus? In A Servant Like Jesus, by Lee Ann Mancini, Charlie finds out. Charlie the crab is very shy at the beginning of his first day of school. But when his classmates have problems sharing, Charlie does what's right and tells the teacher everything he'd witnessed. Later, during a class field trip, one of Charlie's new friends is hurt and he doesn't hesitate to help his friend. Charlie takes the time to pray, helping to teach the readers that they can talk to Jesus any time they feel the need.Charlie quickly realizes that while new people and places can be scary, it's also the perfect time to come forward, be brave, and help out, being a servant like Jesus.

This book is short (around 30 pages), and only has a few sentences on each page. Its full color illustrations, by Dan Sharp, on every page are absolutely gorgeous and wonderful for capturing the young target audience. There are also little Bible pictures hidden on the pages, to give an interactive challenge to those that are big enough. I found this adorable book to be a welcome addition in my home, and think it would be perfect to add to the library at a Christian preschool, daycare, or as a gift for the young ones in your life. 5/5 stars.

*Disclaimer: I received a free print copy of this book from the publisher via BookCrash, in exchange for an honest review.*
Profile Image for Amy.
694 reviews31 followers
November 2, 2016
A shy little crab who has a servant' s heart, makes a great helper and a good friend. In her book, A Servant Like Jesus, Lee Ann Mancini reminds kids the importance of serving like Jesus.

On Charlie's first day of school, he has a hard time adjusting because he is shy. He hides in the corner until some of the other sea creatures get in an argument. After using his multiple eyes to help the teacher discern "who started it", Charlie becomes the teacher's helper.
Later, at the coral reef, he sees Bernie get stung by the fire coral and gets him some help. He also prays for Bernie to feel better and thanks God for helping him be brave. In the process, he gains a friend and loses a little of his shyness. By the end of the day, Charlie is so busy helping clean up, that he doesn't even notice when his mom arrives.

As in the other books in the series, the illustrations are bright and colorful, and the sea creatures are nicely done. The moral of the story will build your child's character. Each page also hidden images for the kids to find.

I received a free copy of this book courtesy of Book Crash to review. I was not required to review positively. All opinions are my own.
1,262 reviews
December 21, 2016
A new school filled with new friends is a little daunting for all children, but timid little Charlie the Crab is especially fearful on his first day at Fish-Care Cove School. But with the help of an understanding teacher and reliance on Jesus, Charlie has a great first day helping others. The theme of helping others is clearly expressed in the colorfully illustrated children’s book, A Servant Like Jesus, by Lee Ann Mancini. With cute and unusual sea creature characters, kids will be immediately engaged in this story that shows that Jesus is always as close as a prayer and that helping others leads to blessings to the helper as well as those who receive help. Easy to understand, this book is a good addition to your family’s library and a great way to teach what how Jesus wants us to live. I can see this book being especially helpful in times of change, such as a new school or new home. A Servant Like Jesus is definitely a recommended read for the younger set (and their parents!).

Recommended.

Audience: children ages 4-8.

(Thanks to the author and Book Crash for a complimentary copy. All opinion expressed are mine alone.)
Profile Image for Gabrielle W..
171 reviews14 followers
November 13, 2016
This is the third book in the Adventures of the Sea Kids series that I've reviewed. The award winning series seeks to help children build a strong foundational relationship with Jesus.
This book (like the last two I reviewed) is wonderful. The illustrations (done by Dan Sharp) are beautiful and bold. I love the bright colors and adorable fishes.
And just like with the other books, on each page there is a hidden Bible image to keep the children engaged.
A delightful read that emphasizes Christ and incorporating Him into your daily life. The book shows Charlie praising and thanking Jesus after he aided a friend; him serving his family when he gets home by helping with chores and praying before bed...Very charming and just like the others a fun read. Children will love it and parents with enjoy reading it. A nice add to your library.
I received this book through Bookcrash in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Vera Godley.
2,019 reviews59 followers
October 31, 2016
Delightful! Super cute and filled with kid-appeal. The illustrations are in bold, beautiful colors featuring big-eyed sea creatures in cartoony style.

On each page there is a tiny Bible hidden for the kiddies to find emphasizing that this is a Christian story and providing those "attention to detail" features that create more interest and concentration. Now, just what is the story and "take away"?

The story is a "first day of school" tale with shyness and how it can be overcome. And then how to have the courage to help someone else who needs you.

There is a strong Christian message of keeping Christ in your heart and being a servant all
geared specifically and charmingly for the young child and young reader. A good book to add to your child's collection.
173 reviews
November 26, 2016
I would like to share with you A Servant Like Jesus by Lee Ann Mancini and illustrated by Dan Sharp.

This book is about a shy little crab named Charlie (seen on the cover). Charlie is nervous about his first day of school and hides in the classroom behind the sink. The teacher points out ways Charlie can help her. When another student is stung, Charlie is eager to help him. Charlie is excited to go to school after that because he wants to help his teacher.

This is a cute book with a good lesson for children. The characters and illustrations are well done. I think this would be a nice book for a church library or home bookshelf.

I received this book from the Book Crash reviewers program for my review. Thank you.
Profile Image for Virginia Winfield.
2,938 reviews15 followers
November 23, 2016
I believe that this was my favorite book in this series so far. I loved the storyline. The shy student that ends up helping others once his teacher has confidence in him. This story also lets the child know it is ok to pray. All of this series is well written and has fantastic illustrations. I love that there is a little item to try and find in each book. This one has the Bible picture to find. I hope there are many books to come in this series. I received this book from Bookcrash for a fair and honest opinion.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews

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