Review - WHOO'S IN THE BOAT by Lisa Burch

WHOO'S IN THE BOAT

by Lisa Burch

Illustrated by Kristi Goldsmith

Whoo's In The Boat details the spiritual journey of Jody, his dog Salty, and Good owl. 

My Take:

Jody's life in a harbor town is filled with dreams of being a fisherman, and also one day of being a Fisher of Men, following Jesus' Great Commission to tell others about Him. When he finds a shipwrecked small sailboat while wandering the shore, he gets a clear call from God to use it to spread the word. So with the help of his dog Salty and his friend Good Owl, he repairs the boat and sails into the unknown with God as his captain, and a dolphin named Harmony as his guide.

Content:
Well, this is a children's picture book, and is squeaky clean on every level. The main point of the book is to carry the Good News to others and share God's Love with them. At 32 beautifully watercolor illustrated pages, it's about a 15 minute read in a family or Kids' Ministry setting. Just right for a night when you want to share with children the desire God has for us to share His Good News. 

The Christian content of the book is pretty evident throughout, and the concepts are down on the bottom shelf, worded in language that a five year old can grasp. Between the covers here we find adventure, prayer for protection, diligence, perseverance, and obedience. Jody listens for God's voice and direction. God provides guidance and protection. Jody does what he can, and his efforts bear fruit. At the end of the book is a set of verses recorded, a Captain's Log that are key verses for sharing the Gospel. Five Stars!

About the Author

Lisa Brubaker Burch grew up in Memphis, Tennessee and currently resides in Mississippi. While pursuing a career in nursing, Lisa worked as a daycare instructor and kindergarten assistant teacher at St. Luke United Methodist. She also has taught in various children's programs including Sunday school, vacation bible school, and gymnastics. As a critical care nurse she served as a patient caregiver, educator, and team leader. Later she conducted cardiac research studies at Memphis Heart Clinic which led to her current occupation as a health and wellness instructor. She has a passion for assisting others to a better life mentally, physically, and most importantly, spiritually.

About the Illustrator

Kristi Goldsmith grew up in a family that always encouraged her to pursue her artistic passions. She studied fashion at Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, and fine art at the Art Academy of the University of Memphis. When her dear friend, Lisa Burch, wrote Whoo's In The Boat, Kristi knew she wanted to contribute to the project because it spoke to her artistic creativity and resonated with her religious upbringing. Kristi maintains a close relationship with God and is eager to help children establish their own relationships with Him.