Good Good Father

Christian recording artist Tomlin and pastor Barrett debut with a story inspired by a song, cowritten by Barrett, that appears on Tomlin’s forthcoming album. Rather than rely on the song’s lyrics, the authors compose an original tale set in a kingdom ruled by a king in a hilltop castle “where the door was always open.” A kindly bear named Tucker, eager to help creatures in need, seeks the king’s assistance: “Maybe, just maybe, if I give him the perfect gift, he will help us.” Various anthropomorphic animals offer gift ideas that underline how the king cares for his people: an owl gives Tucker a book, since the king “is a good teacher,” and other gifts reflect the king’s role as warrior, doctor, farmer, and musician. Hussey (Not This Bear) creates a cuddly kingdom filled with friendly animals, portraying the king as a kindhearted lion who reveals that, naturally, Tucker himself is the perfect gift. Though the story is firmly planted in instructional territory, it’s an easily comprehended allegory that should serve as a fine resource for adults looking to explain a multifaceted deity. Ages 4–8. Illustrator’s agent: Eunice McMullen. (Oct.)