“Little Kicker’s First Rain Storm” Written and Illustrated by Sandy Sprout

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rain Rain Go Away!

Have you ever been afraid of something?  Can you remember being frightened by rain or thunder storms as a child? If you have, then you will be able to relate to the story of “Little Kicker’s First Rain Storm.”  And you can also identify with any child in your life who has fears, as well.

Little Kicker is a young donkey that lives with his parents in the Ozark Mountains. In this book, he experiences fear, and learns what to do about it.  This is the second book about Little Kicker, a series of attractively illustrated read aloud children’s books. 

Little Kicker is enjoying a normal day when suddenly everything changes, and he experiences rain along with a thunder storm for the first time.  It frightens him so much that, at first, he tries to run away from it.  Then he turns to his parents for help.  His parents aren’t able to make the storm go away, but they give Little Kicker good advice, they tell him to pray to God when he is afraid.  His parents also tell their little colt that rain has a purpose–it gives them water to drink, makes the grass grow that they eat, and helps all the other animals around him.

After his parent’s words, the little donkey wants to be brave.  It is still scary, but he remembers to trust God and pray for help.  Little Kicker also observes how his animal friends are acting in the storm.  In the end, Little Kicker learns with God’s help, he can face his fears.

This book can be used as a tool to help young children talk about their fears.  Sometimes it is easier for children, as well as adults, to learn about someone else having a fear–and how they coped with the scary situation.  Children can easily identify with Little Kicker, and understand the colt’s fear and the need for help from God.  The book also shows some scary things can have something positive about them, too.  In this case, the little donkey learns about the many good things rain brings.

Once again, the author has created lovely illustrations that children will really enjoy.  The inside of the front and back of the hardback book have a brightly illustrated map of Little Kicker’s home.  There are fun activities at the end of the story, and the answers can be found by searching the story.  The back of the book also has interesting information about the real life traits of some of the animals that live in the Ozark Mountains.  

Every child experiences fears of some kind, and this book is a great way to learn, talk and pray about scary situations.  I recommend this book, as well as the first book, “A Prayer for Little Kicker.”  However, both books can stand on their own, so no worries if you only have one book.  Read this story to the child in your life, and make wonderful memories.  Because of durability issues I had in my own household, I like the hardback version of children’s books, but this also comes in a soft cover.  This is a five plus star book!

The author has provided me with a copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion. 

Author’s web site:  www.LittleKicker.com

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